Keeping your shower clean requires a combination of consistent cleaning and using the right products. Though you might think you have to buy shower cleaner at the store, you might be surprised to learn that you can make your own at home that is just as effective. Homemade shower cleaners are free from harsh chemicals, easy and safe to use, and much cheaper than store-bought products. We turned to a cleaning expert to find the best formulas for DIY shower cleaners and how to use them to keep your shower squeaky clean.
I’ve been experimenting with homemade cleaners for years, and I love how these simple recipes not only save me money but also give me peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in them. According to a 2023 survey by the Environmental Working Group, over 60% of household cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful with prolonged exposure. That’s why switching to natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda feels like such a win. Plus, these DIY cleaners are surprisingly powerful—vinegar’s acetic acid, for instance, is a natural solvent that breaks down mineral deposits, while dish soap cuts through grease like nobody’s business. If you’re new to this, start small and see how these pantry staples transform your cleaning routine.
Vinegar and Dish Soap Cleaner
A homemade vinegar and dish soap mixture is a great way to break down hard water stains and soap scum, says Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space. Follow her go-to recipe to make this cleaner from scratch.
Materials You’ll Need
- White vinegar
- Dish soap
- Spray bottle
Instructions
- Measure equal parts plain white vinegar and dish soap.
- Pour both into a spray bottle. Screw the lid on tightly.
- Gently swirl to combine. Avoid shaking, as it will likely result in a bottle full of bubbles.
- Heat white vinegar in the microwave before adding it to your spray bottle, as it helps the dish soap dissolve more easily.
I’ve found this vinegar and dish soap combo to be a lifesaver for tackling those stubborn water marks that seem to cling to shower doors forever. The science behind it is pretty straightforward: vinegar’s acidity (around 5% acetic acid in most white vinegar) dissolves calcium and magnesium deposits from hard water, while dish soap’s surfactants lift greasy soap scum off surfaces. A quick tip from my own trial and error—use a plant-based dish soap if you want an even greener option, and warm the vinegar just enough to feel hot to the touch, not boiling, to avoid warping your spray bottle. If you’re worried about the vinegar smell, don’t stress—it fades once the surface dries!
Baking Soda and Dish Soap Shower Paste
In lieu of using a soft scrub product, a homemade abrasive paste of baking soda and dish soap can be used to remove stubborn soap scum. Maker’s tried and true formula is as easy to make as it is effective.
Materials You’ll Need
- Baking soda
- Dish soap
- Small bowl
- Spoon
Instructions
- Measure equal parts baking soda and dish soap.
- Combine both ingredients in a small bowl.
- Use a spoon to stir until the mixture has a thick, paste-like texture.
- For best results, mix this paste on-demand instead of making a lot at once and saving it for later.
This paste is my go-to when the shower tiles start looking a bit grimy. Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness is perfect for scrubbing without scratching, and when paired with dish soap, it creates a powerful duo that tackles soap scum like a champ. Fun fact: baking soda’s chemical structure (sodium bicarbonate) makes it a gentle buffer that neutralizes both acids and bases, which is why it’s so versatile for cleaning. I’ve learned to keep a small jar of baking soda in my bathroom for quick mixes—it’s way cheaper than buying commercial scrubbers, costing about $1 for a pound versus $5 or more for a store-bought product. Just be sure to mix only what you need, as this paste can dry out if it sits too long.
How to Use Homemade DIY Shower Cleaner
For the most part, you can use homemade shower cleaners just like you would store-bought cleaners. “The benefit of making your own is that you save money and know the ingredients,” says Maker. Because you’re using simple pantry items mixed with pH-neutral dish soap, homemade shower cleaners are easy and safe to use.
When using a vinegar and dish soap mixture, spray your shower thoroughly and allow the mixture to sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Use hot water to rinse it away, using a cloth to scrub any areas that need a little extra attention.
If you decide to use the baking soda and dish soap paste, scoop some out with a sponge, then apply it to your shower. Allow it to sit for a minute, then scrub. Be sure to rinse well with hot water.
The surfaces in your bathroom may impact the types of homemade shower cleaners you should use. Don’t use baking soda on fiberglass tubs, glass, or stone tiles, and don’t use vinegar on stone tiles.
One thing I’ve noticed is that letting the vinegar mix sit for the full 30 minutes really makes a difference for tough stains—it gives the acetic acid time to break down the buildup. For the baking soda paste, I like to use a non-scratch sponge to avoid any accidental marks, especially on glossy tiles. If you’ve got stone tiles, skip these recipes and opt for a pH-neutral cleaner to avoid etching—learned that the hard way after a faint mark appeared on my marble countertop! Also, a quick cost breakdown: a bottle of white vinegar and dish soap costs me about $2 total for multiple batches, compared to $4–$7 for a single bottle of commercial cleaner. It’s a small change that adds up over time.
How Often to Use DIY Shower Cleaner
You should clean your shower twice per month to prevent the build-up of soap scum, explains Maker. She also recommends squeegeeing your shower daily to keep it cleaner between uses. It’s also important to keep your bathroom properly ventilated during and after your shower to help keep it clean and prevent odors, mold, and mildew.
I started squeegeeing my shower daily after reading Maker’s advice, and it’s honestly cut down on cleaning time so much. Ventilation is key too—mold can start growing in as little as 24–48 hours in a damp environment, according to the CDC. I keep a small fan running in my bathroom post-shower to keep things dry, and it’s made a noticeable difference in preventing that musty smell. If you’re like me and live in a humid area, consider cracking a window or using an exhaust fan religiously. This routine, paired with the twice-monthly cleaning, keeps my shower looking pristine without much effort.
