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This bath and shower spray is just one of the cleaners in my natural bathroom cleaning arsenal. The way it cuts through hard rust and soap scum even though it might just be your new favorite. Even better, it’s simple and pulls together fast!
The formula is concentrated and does not call for extra water. Not only do we not have to worry about bacteria growing in our bathroom cleaners, but a little longer.
I recommend storing this cleaner in a glass spray bottle. Over time, the acid in vinegar can break down some plastics, and that’s something our family as a whole tries to avoid. I found some cute and handy glass spray bottles from Grove Collaborative and Amazon.
No harsh cleaners here
The harder the mess, the harder it is for the cleaners. However, we don’t need to use harsh synthetic chemicals to solve tough bath and shower problems. Natural cleaners can be as tough as their regular cleaners.
When the minerals in hard water combine with soap, it creates a white, dirty layer known as soap scum. Hard water is also notorious for leaving rust marks. The best way to remove hard water stains and soap scum is to prevent them before you start.
A water softener combined with a whole-house filter helps prevent hard water deposits from damaging surfaces. If that’s not an option, a tub or shower filter can help. Even so, sometimes we just need a solid tub and spray shower to get the job done.
Scrub vs. Bath and Shower Spray
I have a cleaning powder that is great for those tough jobs, but sometimes I want another option. This bath and shower spray is free of any abrasives so it won’t scratch more delicate surfaces. You can use it on tile, acrylic, and fiberglass bathtubs and showers. Just avoid spraying on metal furniture because of the vinegar.
I like to use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge when cleaning the tub. Trackpads can help remove more stubborn stains, but they only do that: scratches. Over time, this can damage the protective coating on some bathroom surfaces. If we are using the right detergent there is no need to clean the rust and soap scum!
For more cleansing power, apply to the bath and shower, then let the mixture sit for about fifteen minutes to do its job. Wipe clean with a damp cloth after. Need more to clean your bathroom? You can also sprinkle on some baking soda and spray on difficult areas before scrubbing with a cloth or sponge.
Soap and Vinegar don’t play nice
We use simple ingredients here, but it’s important to choose the right one. Vinegar is acidic and helps cut through hard minerals. Dish soap helps to remove soap scum and other dirt on dishes. Regular soap, especially castile soap, will not work in this recipe.
Dish soap is actually a detergent and works on a different chemical level than castile soap. While I love using Bronner’s castile soap to wash my hands, baby wipes, and even botanical spray, that’s not my choice here.
When vinegar and soap are mixed together, a chemical reaction occurs and the reaction is not good. According to Lisa Bronner, vinegar does not saponify. This means that the soap is no longer soapy and cannot do its job. Instead of a powerful cleaner, we are left with an opaque white mess.
Since dish soap is a detergent, it can combine well with vinegar and we get even better detergent. If you don’t have natural dish soap on hand, Sal Suds can also do it. And I’m talking about regular dish soap for hand washing dishes, not dishwasher detergent.
Best Vinegar for Bath and Shower
I use white vinegar for cleaning. White vinegar is affordable, natural, and works well. Save good apple cider vinegar for things like apple kale salad or spicy cider.
Add enhanced fragrance
Vinegar and dish soap (or Sal Suds) will only clean bathtubs and showers on their own. Even so, I like to add some essential oils for extra cleaning and disinfection. Here are some options that smell delicious and are great to clean with:
DIY shower and bath spray
Treats hard water and soap scum without damaging surfaces. This spray is great for getting the tub back in shape and helping to keep it that way!
Productivity: 16 ounce
Guide
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Combine all ingredients in the bottle, pour in vinegar last. Depending on the exact size of the bottle and sprayer, you may not need all of the vinegar. Be sure to leave some space at the top to allow for mixing.
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Shake well before each use.
Note
To use: Spray heavily on tub and shower surfaces, avoiding any metal fixtures. Scrub clean with a microfiber cloth or sponge.
What are some of your favorite ways to make your bathroom sparkling clean? Leave us your comments and let us know!
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