Is your clean bathroom being dragged down by dirty chrome fittings? Do the ugly stains remain even after you attempt to banish them? Well, there’s a logical explanation for that! When compared to other types of metal fittings, chrome is trickier to clean because it is easily scratched. This means an efficient and safe clean of your chrome bathroom fittings will require an appropriate cleaning solution and the right tools and techniques.
So, before you think of replacing your chrome bathroom fittings with easy-to-clean, stainless steel ones, take a look at Simply Maid’s simple guide to keeping chrome clean and rust-free!
Step One: Concoct the Perfect Cleaner!
Did you know that the use of harsh or strong cleaners can stain chrome fittings? Therefore, it’s important to make a mild, yet effective, cleaning solution, using the right ingredients. While there are a couple of commercial cleaners available on the market, we prefer to use a natural cleaning solution to steer clear of the chemicals. To make your own homemade chrome cleaner, mix the following ingredients together:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1/2 a cup of white distilled vinegar or apple cider
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
Stir this up rigorously in a basin or bucket and move on to the next step.
Step Two: Scrub with a Sponge!
Begin by dipping the sponge in your cleaning solution, squeeze out some of the water and scrub the chrome fittings. Observe the surface after a few scrubs to check if the stains are wiping off efficiently. If you find that the stains are not coming off with a sponge, use a non-abrasive scrubber or soft-bristled brush instead. Rinse out your cleaning tool as and when needed. Bear in mind that the warmer the water is, the more effective your cleaner will be. For any stubborn stains, use the following method:
- Soak a clean cloth in hot water; wring it thoroughly
- Dip the cloth in your cleaner and squeeze out at least 80% of excess water
- Wrap the cloth around the stained area as snugly as possible and tie it up
- Leave for a minimum of 10 minutes (clean other bathroom surfaces in the meantime)
- Remove the cloth and use it to wipe down the area or scrub with a non-abrasive cleaning tool
NOTE: Avoid prolonged exposure of vinegar to chrome as it can cause damage due to its acidic content.
Step Three: Rinse Off, Lime On!
Using a hose or mugs of water, rinse off the cleaner thoroughly and do the following:
- Cut 1 or 2 limes into halves
- Squeeze out 90% of the juice into a clean mug
- Use your thumbs to push the back of the rind inward to expose more of the pulp
- Scrub over the chrome using the exposed pulp until the rind starts to run dry
- Soak a clean sponge with the lime extract and wipe down the rest of your bathroom fittings (you can also clean other components of your bathroom with lime juice and a scrubber)
- Rinse the chrome fittings once again to remove any pulp residue
NOTE: Lime or lemon extract helps in removing hard water stains and grime build-up. It is also a natural way to polish chrome for an added sheen.
Step Four: Blot the Surface Dry!
It’s best to dry your chrome fittings immediately to avoid a couple of water spots here and there. In fact, this is also advised after showering to help maintain a clean, stain-free chrome surface. Use a clean towel or absorbent cloth to blot-dry the surface and leave the door/window open to air dry it completely.
How to Remove Rust from Chrome Bathroom Fittings?
Believe it or not, rust on chrome is one of the easiest things to remove with the help of aluminium foil and diet coke. Here’s what you need to do:
- Fold a large piece of foil multiple times to make it thick
- Dip the piece into a basin of diet coke
- Scrub the rusted area carefully to avoid tearing the foil (use a small amount of pressure to scrape off the rust)
- Rinse the area with water after the rust has been removed
- Dry with a clean towel
NOTE: Aluminium foil is not abrasive enough to scratch chrome surfaces; however, minimal pressure is advised.
To keep your chrome bathroom fittings clean, it’s important to increase ventilation in the bathroom; dry the fittings immediately after you shower; and use the steps above for a deep clean every other week!
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