How to Clean Bathroom Chrome Fixtures
Bathroom chrome fixtures look polished when clean but are susceptible to water spots and dirt build-up.
Since chrome is a durable material, there are several methods you can use to clean it. Here are some of the best ways to clean bathroom chrome and keep it looking shiny.
Best Chrome Cleaner for Bathroom Fixtures (Removing Discoloration and Hard Water Spots)
The cause of chrome discoloration is magnesium, calcium, and other mineral deposits from hard water. These mineral build-ups can leave brown, yellow, white, and even black stains on chrome bathroom fixtures.
If you’re dealing with discoloration or hard water spots, remove them with one of the methods below.
Clear Mineral Deposits Off of Chrome with Vinegar
Since chrome is a soft metal, vinegar is not a good everyday cleaner, but you can use it to break down stubborn mineral deposits.
Start by filling a spray bottle with half-white distilled vinegar and water. Spray the chrome and wait 15 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush dipped in the vinegar to scrub away the discoloration.
Rinse with water and dry the chrome with a microfiber cloth.
Use Bar Keeper’s Friend Liquid Cleaners
Bar Keeper’s Friend Soft Cleanser can scrub off mineral deposits and rust. But before you use it, do a test spot to ensure it doesn’t damage your chrome surface. Then, take the following steps:
- Dampen a sponge and squeeze a small amount of Bar Keeper’s Friend on the sponge
- Wipe the faucet, focusing on the mineral build-up and rust
- Rinse with water
- Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth
Make a Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda is a mild abrasive capable of scrubbing off hard water deposits without scratching chrome fixtures.
To create a baking soda paste, put ½ cup of baking soda in a bowl and add water until thick paste forms. Dip a damp microfiber cloth into the paste and use it to wipe the fixture. Rinse with water and dry.
Best Daily Chrome Cleaners for Bathroom Fixtures
If you want your chrome fixtures to last, clean them with gentle products – use dish soap mixed with water, a damp microfiber rag, or a mild all-purpose cleaner. Most stainless steel appliance cleaners are also suitable for chrome.
A daily wipe-down will prevent hard water spots and discoloration from forming.
Don’t use harsh or abrasive cleaners. Scouring pads, bleach, and acidic cleansers can damage your fixtures.
How to Keep Your Chrome Fixtures Shiny
Shiny chrome fixtures make your bathroom look clean and fresh. To add shine and help repel dirt and hard water, wipe the fixtures with a thin coat of baby oil after cleaning them.
You can also use a stainless steel appliance polish or a specialty chrome faucet polish available on Amazon and home improvement stores.
How to Clean a Chrome Shower Head
If your chrome shower head is full of hard water buildup, fill a sandwich bag with vinegar and tie it around the shower head. After an hour, remove the bag and use a soft-bristled brush to scrape away the mineral deposits and discoloration.
Use a microfiber cloth and dish soap to wash the rest of the shower head before rinsing with water and drying it.
Tips for Keeping Your Chrome Bathroom Fixtures Clean
- Keep a microfiber cloth in the bathroom and wipe your fixtures every couple of days. The microfiber will remove dirt and water build-up. (No cleaner necessary.)
- Clean your fixtures every week using dish soap or a mild all-purpose cleaner.
- Use a chrome polish to minimize water spots and keep your fixtures shiny.