Bathroom surfaces you should 'never' clean with baking soda - including grout
A bathroom expert has warned that the common cleaning method could "scratch" shower glass and dull the finish of natural stone surfaces. The natural cleaning hack is often used to get rid of bad smells and lift stubborn stains.
Baking soda, also known as bicarbonate of soda, is a popular cleaning method that can be used all around the house.
The natural cleaning solution, when combined with water, creates a thick paste which is abrasive enough to remove stubborn stains.
When mixed with white vinegar, baking soda fizzes and produces a chemical reaction which can dissolve grease.
However, a bathroom expert has warned that the cleaning hack should not be used to clean certain areas of your bathroom.
Brian Toward, CEO of leading bathroom retailer, Wholesale Domestic, has warned that certain parts of the bathroom should never be cleaned with baking soda, as it "might do more harm than good."
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Mirrors, shower doors, and bathtubs, as well as tiled and stone surfaces, should never be cleaned with baking soda as it can scratch them and wear them down.
Shower glass
Brian explained: “You should never clean glass with baking soda, so stay clear of cleaning mirrors, shower doors and windows with it. As it’s an abrasive cleaner it can scratch the glass and also leave a film or residue if not rinsed thoroughly, making it look cloudy and streaky.
“Instead, mix together white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, apply it to the glass and wipe it away with a microfibre cloth."
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Grout
Baking soda is a popular solution for cleaning tile surfaces and grout. However, Brain has warned this isn't the best option for grout as it can "cause damage" and "wear down the grout over time".
Instead, he recommended using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water or vinegar and water. Simply apply the solution, allow it to sit for a few minute and then scrub it in using an old toothbrush or a grout brush.
Natural stone surfaces
Brian said bicarbonate of soda's abrasive nature can "scratch and dull the finish of natural stone surfaces like marble and granite".
He added: "If you have these in your bathroom, use a gentle pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone instead, or make your own by mixing mild dish soap with water."
Acrylic bathtubs
Brian continued: “Lastly, avoid using baking soda to clean acrylic bathtubs. Doing so can scratch the surface, leaving them visibly damaged.
"Instead, again use a mild liquid soap or dish detergent mixed with warm water. Also avoid harsh, abrasive scrubbers that can cause scratching."
If you aren't sure whether baking soda can be used in an area of your bathroom, test it in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.
