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The Spruce / Lecia Landis
Whether you have a bathroom cleaning routine or not, a shower cleaner is always a wise investment. From foam formulas to automatic scrubbing brushes and drain snakes, this type of cleaner can deep clean mold, mildew, and soap scum that's on your shower walls and pipes, or provide daily or weekly maintenance to prevent all that gunk from returning.
The best shower cleaners are easy to use, shouldn't require too much elbow grease, and should last beyond just a few uses. You'll also want to consider the scent and surface compatibility, so you know the cleaner or cleaning device you're using won't strip, crack, or otherwise damage your tile, granite, or glass, or another bathroom surface you may have.
To help you find the best shower cleaner, we researched the top options with these features in mind.
Here are the best shower cleaners to make your bathroom shine.
Best Overall
Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner
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Amazon
Biodegradable
Eco-friendly formula
No hard scrubbing required
Less effective than more abrasive cleaners
Scent can be strong
If you’re looking for an effective bathroom cleaner that is also eco-friendly, Better Life’s Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner is our top pick. Plant-based and biodegradable, this formula is a gentler option than some chemical-based cleaners out there, and it can cut through soap, scum, rust, hard water stains, and other grime without any scrubbing. Just spray it on the desired area, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it away. However, since it is such a gentle formula, we recommend using this for more frequent maintenance, rather than a deep clean, to remove caked-on dirt and grime.
Scented with tea tree and eucalyptus oils, this cleaner leaves a pleasant smell when you're done cleaning. It can linger for a little while, so it may be best to clean with a window open if you're sensitive to smell. Available in a 32-ounce bottle, a little goes long way with this cleaner, and it should last you quite a while. Many retailers even sell it with a refill, so you can reuse the sprayer for the second bottle once you empty the first. You can use this option all over your bathroom, since it's compatible with ceramic, porcelain, stainless steel, fiberglass, acrylic, and chrome surfaces, which is another reason why it's our top pick.
Price at time of publish: $16
Type: Spray︱Amount: 32 fluid ounces︱Dimensions: 10 x 3.45 x 3.45 inches︱Weight: 2 pounds︱Scent: Tea tree and eucalyptus
Best Budget
Clorox Disinfecting All-Purpose Cleaner
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Kills 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria
Leaves behind a shiny surface
Helps prevent mold and mildew growth
Heavy buildup may require longer contact time
Some scrubbing is required
With considerable cleaning power and an incredibly low price tag, Clorox Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner is a solid, budget-friendly performer. It cuts through soap scum, limescale, dirt, and other grime and helps prevent mold and mildew from forming. To remove buildup, spray the surface until thoroughly wet, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe it off with a sponge. If the buildup is particularly heavy, you will need to leave the product on for a few minutes before scrubbing and wiping the surface clean.
This cleaner has the added benefit of killing 99.9 percent of germs, including cold and flu viruses, according to the manufacturer. To use it for disinfecting purposes, spray the desired area until it's thoroughly wet, and let it sit for 10 minutes before wiping it off. No matter how you use it, this cleaner always leaves a brilliant shine in its wake. Although it's bleach-free, it still has a chemical smell, so make sure to open the windows when letting it sit. It's compatible with tile, toilets, sinks, and counters, so you can use it all over your bathroom. Available in a 30-ounce spray bottle, it should last for a few months unless you use it more frequently.
Price at time of publish: $4
Type: Spray︱Amount: 30 fluid ounces︱Dimensions: 10.13 x 3 x 4.88 inches︱Weight: Not listed︱Scent: Unscented
Best Foaming
OxiClean Foam-Tastic Foaming Bathroom Cleaner
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Amazon
Indicates when you can wipe off
No hard scrubbing required
Won’t drip when applied to vertical surfaces
Bottle may run out quickly
Heavy buildup may require longer contact time
This powerful cleaning foam by Kaboom has stain-fighting bubbles and cuts right through soap scum, hard water, calcium, and lime stains. The color-changing formula sprays on blue and eventually turns to white, indicating that it’s time to wipe it off. No hard scrubbing is required—simply remove the foam with a wet cloth or sponge, and rinse with water. Note that tough dirt and grime may require several applications or a longer contact time.
Although the lemon scent makes for a more pleasant cleaning experience, this chemical cleaner should still be used in a well-ventilated area. Kaboom can be used on other bathroom surfaces, including sinks, toilets, and countertops. What makes this foaming cleaner more effective than a liquid spray, particularly on shower walls, is the thick consistency that allows it to stick to vertical surfaces, without dripping, to penetrate tough stains. Available in 19-ounce bottles, it's a bit smaller than some other options on this list and may run out faster when cleaning larger surface areas. You'll just want to keep that in mind when shopping.
Price at time of publish: $5
Type: Foam︱Amount: 19 fluid ounces︱Dimensions: 9.63 x 2.69 x 2.69 inches︱Weight: 1.4 pounds︱Scent: Lemon citrus
Best Brush
Rubbermaid Reveal Power Scrubber
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Amazon
Can handle various cleaning tasks
Two scrubbing settings
Comfortable to hold
Batteries must be replaced occasionally
Small brush isn't ideal for large surfaces
This miniature handheld scrub brush is ideal for cleaning a variety of bathroom surfaces. The brush head oscillates 60 times per second, providing a much deeper clean than manual scrubbing. It has two scrubbing settings—pulse and continuous—and comes with two interchangeable brush accessories, each tailored for a specific cleaning job. The small all-purpose head is for cleaning fixtures and tight spaces, while the tapered brush can really get into the grout lines and other small nooks and crannies. While you can use the multipurpose head to scrub your entire sink, it is rather cumbersome to cover a wide area, since it is so small.
With an ergonomic grip and rubberized molding on the handle, this scrubber is comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver. The brush is powered by four AA batteries, which are included, but you will need to replace them over time. All of the brush attachments are dishwasher safe, allowing for easy cleanup. For a thorough bathroom cleaning, you can’t go wrong with this versatile set.
Price at time of publish: $26
Type: Brush︱Amount: Scrubber with two brush attachments︱Dimensions: 2.5 x 8.3 x 11.63 inches︱Weight: 0.74 pounds︱Scent: Not applicable
Best Scrubber
OXO Good Grips Extendable Tub & Tile Brush
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Amazon
Convenient, extendable handle
Lightweight
Antimicrobial scrub head
Replacement heads are sold separately
Doesn't indicate when locked at extended length
This extendable scrubber from OXO makes reaching upper shower corners and cleaning the bathroom floor a lot easier. With a simple twist, the handle extends from 26 inches to 42 inches—eliminating the need to bend down or crane your body to access hard-to-reach places. However, note that it does not make a sound to indicate when it's locked in the extended length, so it may take a few tries to keep it in place. At less than a pound, this scrub brush is incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver. A non-slip grip keeps the scrubber securely in your hands, even if it gets wet. When you’re finished using it, the handle retracts to its original length, making it easier to store.
The antimicrobial abrasive head, which is similar in texture to a scouring pad, is ideal for deep cleaning and works on any tub, tile, and glass surfaces. It has a pointed tip, allowing access to corners, grout lines, and other tight spaces. Since the head pivots, you can clean at different angles. Once the brush begins to degrade, you can replace it with the brand's replacement heads, which are sold separately.
Price at time of publish: $18
Type: Brush︱Amount: 1 extendable scrubber︱Dimensions: 2.25 x 4.375 x 25.75 inches︱Weight: 0.8 pounds︱Scent: Not applicable
Best Glass Cleaner
Rejuvenate No Scrub Soap Scum Remover
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Amazon
No hard scrubbing required
Leaves behind a shiny surface
Odorless formula
Works best with a removable shower head
Bottle may run out quickly
Specially formulated for glass shower doors, Rejuvenate No Scrub removes soap scum and other unwanted buildups. This non-abrasive cleaner won’t scratch or damage surfaces, and it leaves behind a shiny, streak-free finish. In addition to glass, you can use it on ceramic tile, plastic, chrome, porcelain, and stone. Because it’s so versatile, you can clean multiple items in one swoop, but note that the 24-ounce bottle will likely run out more quickly that way, too. Luckily, it is an inexpensive formula and is available at many large retailers, so you shouldn't have any problem finding a new bottle.
The cleaner is easy to use and doesn’t require any scrubbing or elbow grease. All you need to do is spray it on in an even layer, let it sit for two to three minutes, and rinse it off thoroughly. It quickly eliminates soap scum, mineral buildup, and water spots. Users who are sensitive to strong smells will also appreciate the odorless formula.
Price at time of publish: $10
Type: Spray︱Amount: 24 fluid ounces︱Dimensions: 11 x 4 x 2 inches︱Weight: 11.62 ounces︱Scent: Unscented
Best Stopper
TubShroom Drain Protector Hair Catcher
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Amazon
Inexpensive
Long-lasting and durable design
Comes in various colors
Might restrict water flow
Can get dirty and moldy quickly
One of the simplest ways to prevent bathtub clogs is to use a drain stopper like this smartly designed device from TubShroom. The stopper fits snugly in any standard bathtub drain, and it's made of industrial-grade silicone, so it should last for at least 10 years. Whenever you take a shower or bath, it neatly catches hair within the drain and keeps it out of sight. The mushroom-like shape and multiple holes should allow for optimal water flow, but as it catches any hair, it may slow down your water flow considerably.
TubShroom is available in six colors, including white and clear, to match almost any bathtub. It’s incredibly easy to clean: all you need to do is wipe it off with a tissue to remove the hair. According to the manufacturer, it can go weeks without having to be cleaned, but if you shower often, it will collect a lot of hair, soap scum, and more, so it's best to clean it more frequently so it doesn't get dirty and moldy.
Price at time of publish: $20
Type: Stopper︱Amount: 1 product in the package︱Dimensions: 2.25 x 2.25 x 1.79 inches︱Weight: 0.8 ounces︱Scent: Not applicable
Best Drain Snake
FlexiSnake Drain Weasel Sink Snake Cleaner
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Amazon
Comfortable to hold
Includes five replacement wands
Features a quick-connect handle
Only for nearby clogs
Replacement wands are sold separately
FlexiSnake Drain Weasel is specially designed to remove hair clogs, the leading culprit of slowly-draining tubs and showers. This drain opener is easy to use: simply insert the snake down the drain and crank the handle, and the bristly tip will pull out clumps of hair and other blockages. Made from ultra-thin, flexible plastic, the snake should fit into most drains without your having to disassemble the stopper. It connects quickly and stays securely in place as you maneuver it. The molded plastic handle makes it comfortable to hold, too.
Once you’ve unclogged the drain, you can toss the used wand in the trash. The FlexiSnake comes with five replacement wands that easily attach to the quick-connect handle. Measuring 18 inches in length and outfitted with patented micro-hooks, the FlexiSnake is best suited for removing nearby clogs. If you have a deeper clog in your drainage system, you’ll likely need an electric drain snake.
Price at time of publish: $22
Type: Drain snake︱Amount: 1 snake with 5 replacement wands︱Dimensions: 1 x 3 x 21 inches︱Weight: 3.24 ounces︱Scent: Not applicable
Best Squeegee
HIWARE All-Purpose Shower Squeegee
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Amazon
Comfortable to hold
Comes in various colors and sizes
Has adhesive hooks for easy storage
Blade is not replaceable
Color can chip off the handle
This all-purpose squeegee glides over shower doors and other smooth surfaces like granite and marble, wicking away moisture. When paired with a household cleaner, it can also remove soap scum, limescale, and other unwanted buildup. Made of stainless steel with a rust-resistant finish, the lightweight, ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold, too. It's available in four colors to match almost any bathroom decor, however, some of the colors can begin to chip off after a while.
You can also choose from a 10-, 12-, or 14-inch rubber blade, which leaves surfaces clean, dry, and streak-free. We recommend an extra-wide width if you’re covering a large surface area. Unfortunately, the blade isn't replaceable, so you will need to repurchase an entire new squeegee if it begins to break down. Still, it should last for years as long as it's properly maintained.
The squeegee comes with a set of waterproof adhesive hooks, too, which can easily be adhered to a smooth, clean, and dry surface. While consistently using the squeegee will help prevent soap scum and water spots from forming, you still need to thoroughly clean and sanitize your shower walls on a regular basis. However, the HIWARE Shower Squeegeewill make the work a lot easier.
Price at time of publishing: $20
Type: Squeegee︱Amount: 1 shower squeegee︱Dimensions: 1.46 x 7.72 x 10.67 inches︱Weight: 7.7 ounces︱Scent: Not applicable
Best for Hard Water
Bio-Clean Hard Water Stain Remover
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Amazon
Biodegradable
A little goes a long way
Leaves behind a shiny surface
Some scrubbing is required
Abrasive formula can scratch soft surfaces
This industrial strength cleaner from Bio-Clean is specially formulated to remove hard water stains, but it also works on stains caused by limescale, phosphorus, calcium, iron, and paint. The formula is biodegradable, but it is still abrasive and should only be used on surfaces that won't scratch easily. It also requires some elbow grease, but it's worth it, considering the streak-free, shiny finish it leaves in its wake. For best results, apply the cream formula with a dry microfiber cloth, and buff it away.
Bio-Clean is available in a 20.3-ounce bottle, and a little goes a long way, so it should last you quite a while. It also works well with cleaning brushes, such as the ones you can attach to an electric drill for deeper cleaning.
Price at time of publish: $30
Type: Cream︱Amount: 20.3 fluid ounces︱Dimensions: 7.2 x 2.9 x 8.7 inches︱Weight: 2.6 pounds︱Scent: Mild mint
Best for Mold and Mildew
RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover
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Amazon
Works on contact
No hard scrubbing required
Versatile
Strong scent
Will drip down vertical surfaces
This powerful stain remover is incredibly effective at removing mold and mildew from the bathroom. Since it is a liquid formula, it can be sprayed directly between bathroom tiles, along grout lines and shower doors, under the sink, and more. It's also versatile enough to work on wood, vinyl, drywall, concrete, and brick surfaces. What's more, no scrubbing is required: all you need to do is spray it on the affected area, and it will kill mold and mildew on contact. It even comes in a generous 32-ounce spray bottle, so it should last you a long time.
Since this cleaner contains bleach and has a fairly strong smell, it should be used in a well-ventilated area. Bleach may cause discoloration or damage to some surfaces, so it’s best to test the product on a small, unnoticeable area first. If you’re using the spray on a vertical surface, be sure to wipe up any run-off to avoid a mess on the floor.
Price at time of publish: $19
Type: Spray︱Amount: 32 fluid ounces︱Dimensions: 10 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches︱Weight: 2 pounds︱Scent: Fresh
Best for Tile
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath Scrubber
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Walmart
Built-in cleanser
Gets into grout and small crevices
Versatile
Pads are not biodegradable
Not reusable after cleaning large surface areas
These Magic Eraser cleaning pads certainly live up to their name, working wonders on showers, tile, and grout. They come with a built-in foaming cleanser, which is activated when wet. To use, simply add a little water to the pad, squeeze it out, and wipe away stubborn dirt and stains.
Since these bath scrubbers are 30 percent bigger than the original Magic Eraser, they can tackle a larger surface area in less time. However, they’re still great for getting into grout lines and other small crevices. You can use them all over your bathroom, as well, to tackle small tasks like cleaning your sink countertops until the scrubbers disintegrate. Just keep in mind, though, the scrubbers are single-use when cleaning larger surface areas like your shower.
To keep your bathroom smelling fresh, the pads are available in refreshing scents like lavender and Febreze's meadows and rain. Looking to tackle more cleaning tasks around your home? They can be used to remove scuff marks from walls and floorboards as well as baked-on kitchen grease from stoves and countertops—to name just a few additional applications.
Price at time of publish: $19
Type: Eraser pad︱Amount: 4 pads per pack (pack of 2)︱Dimensions: 1.81 x 5.43 x 7.68 inches︱Weight: 0.107 pounds︱Scent: Lavender, Febreze meadows and rain
The Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner earns the top spot, thanks to its eco-friendly formula, pleasant scent, and impressive cleaning power. For a more affordable option, consider Clorox Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner. It cuts through soap scum, dirt, and grime and also kills viruses and bacteria.
What to Look for in a Shower Cleaner
Amount
For liquid shower cleaners, you can easily calculate the cost per fluid ounce and determine which is the best value. Some formulas are more powerful than others, however, so you may need more of a particular product to tackle the same mess. When buying brushes, scrubbing tools, or pads, consider how many come in a package and how long each will last. You can also factor in their initial cost, but keep in mind that they can be used multiple times.
Ease of Use
Some shower cleaners are designed to work with minimal to no scrubbing. They often come in a gel or foam formula. Once applied, they usually need to sit on the surface for a few minutes to reach their full effectiveness. Tools like brushes, scrubbers, and Magic Erasers will require some elbow grease to get the job done, and they will likely need maintenance, too—whether it’s wringing, squeezing, or washing them out between uses. Meanwhile, some options, like a snake drain, are single-use only, and you'll need to find replacement pieces.
Scent
Shower cleaners can have a mild or strong scent. Products that contains ammonia, bleach, or other harsh chemicals typically have the strongest scents. Our top pick, the Better Life Natural Tub and Tile Cleaner, is scented with essential oils, creating a pleasant smell that isn’t overpowering. Which scent you choose comes down to the cleaning task you're facing, since you may need a more abrasive and chemical-based formula, and personal preference. However, when using any cleaner, be sure to use it in a properly ventilated area and away from children and pets.
Surface Compatibility
Multipurpose shower cleaners can be used on a variety of surfaces, while dedicated formulas are intended for specific materials. For cleaning tubs and showers, choose a product that is intended for use on tile, porcelain, ceramic, vinyl, or stone. You will likely need a separate cleaner for glass shower doors. To avoid damaging any bathroom surfaces, be sure to use a product that’s compatible with the surface you're intending to clean.
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How often should a shower be cleaned?
A shower should be cleaned thoroughly on a weekly basis. However, if you perform preventative maintenance each time you shower, you can probably extend the cleaning period to every two weeks. Use a squeegee or a bath towel after every shower to wipe down shower walls and doors. It’s also a good idea to remove any excess hair from the drain.
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How do you get white film off shower tiles?
There are commercial cleaning products specifically formulated to tackle that pesky white film on shower tiles, which is also known as soap scum. Rejuvenate No Scrub is one of the most effective options out there. Another alternative is to try a homemade solution of baking soda and distilled white vinegar, as shown in one of our many cleaning recipes, to remove soap scum.
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How do you unclog a shower drain?
Before resorting to chemical drain cleaners, you could try a homemade solution (for example, of of dish soap, baking soda, and vinegar) to help flush the drain. However, if the cleaning task appears tougher, you may need to bring in some tools.
Paul Abrams, the public relations director at Roto-Rooter, suggests “plunging the drain with a shallow red cup sink plunger (not the deep black cup designed for toilets). A plunger will push the hair clog through the narrow drain line and into the larger-diameter main sewer pipe, where it will be washed away.” However, it is important to seal the overflow drain first. The best way to seal an overflow opening is to cover it with duct tape.
Another option is a manual drain snake, but Abrams notes that “they are only effective for clearing clogs from the first 10 to 12 inches of the drainpipe. A sink plunger is effective for the next several feet of drain line, but after that, a professional-grade drain-cleaning snake is the tool of choice for the job.”
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Sage McHugh, a home and lifestyle writer who has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. To select the best shower cleaners, she considered dozens of products and hundreds of customer reviews, carefully evaluating each cleaner's effectiveness on various types of surfaces. For insight on unclogging shower drains, she interviewed Paul Abrams, public relations director of Roto-Rooter.