Simple tips to keep your upgraded bathroom looking beautiful for decades
One of the biggest advantages of modern bathroom wall systems is how easy they are to maintain compared to traditional tile and grout. But "low maintenance" doesn't mean "no maintenance." A few simple habits will keep your bathroom looking pristine for years to come.
This guide covers everything you need to know about caring for your new shower, whether you have High-Tech Polymer walls, cultured marble, or other modern materials. The best part? You won't need any special cleaners or expensive products.
After each shower, give your walls a quick rinse with warm water. This removes soap residue before it can build up. A handheld showerhead makes this easy—just spray down the walls for 30 seconds.
Takes less than 1 minute
For hard water areas, a quick squeegee or soft cloth wipe-down after showering prevents water spots and mineral buildup. This is especially helpful if your water has high mineral content.
Prevents hard water stains
Run your bathroom exhaust fan during and after showers to reduce humidity. This prevents moisture-related issues and helps your bathroom dry faster. Leave it running for 15-20 minutes after your shower.
Prevents mold and mildew
After your final shower of the day, use a towel or squeegee to wipe up any remaining water on surfaces and in the shower base. This prevents standing water and keeps your shower area pristine.
Extends life of caulk and seals
Once a week, give your bathroom a more thorough cleaning. This takes about 10-15 minutes and keeps everything looking its best. The good news: modern wall systems make this incredibly easy compared to tile and grout.
Mix your cleaning solution
Add a few drops of mild dish soap to warm water in a spray bottle or bucket.
Wipe down all surfaces
Use your soft cloth or sponge to wipe walls, shower base, and fixtures. Work from top to bottom.
Rinse thoroughly
Use clean warm water to rinse away any soap residue. Soap buildup can cause streaks and buildup over time.
Dry and polish
Use a soft, dry towel to wipe surfaces dry. This prevents water spots and keeps everything looking gleaming.
The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes—far less than scrubbing grout lines!
Modern bathroom materials are durable, but they can be damaged by harsh chemicals and abrasive tools. Using the wrong products can void warranties and cause permanent damage. Here's what to steer clear of:
Scrubbing pads, steel wool, gritty powders, and rough brushes can scratch and dull surfaces permanently.
While bleach can disinfect, it can also discolor or degrade certain materials over time. Use pH-neutral cleaners instead.
Glass cleaners with ammonia can leave streaks and may affect some finish coatings on bathroom fixtures.
Products containing oils or waxes can create a film that attracts dirt and makes surfaces appear dull.
While vinegar is great for some applications, it can etch or damage natural stone and some metal finishes. Check manufacturer recommendations.
Nail polish remover, paint thinner, and similar solvents can dissolve caulk, damage coatings, and ruin finishes.
Mild dish soap mixed with warm water handles 95% of cleaning needs. For tougher buildup, look for cleaners specifically designed for your material type—your installer can recommend the right products.
Inspect the caulk around your shower base, corners, and where walls meet fixtures at least every 6 months. Cracked or separating caulk allows water to seep behind surfaces and cause damage. Re-caulk as needed with high-quality bathroom silicone.
If you have a glass shower door, check the seals and weatherstripping periodically. Worn seals can cause water to escape and create slippery floors outside your shower. Replace seals as needed.
A dripping faucet may seem minor, but constant water exposure can affect surrounding surfaces over time. Repair leaks promptly to protect your bathroom and save water.
Ensure your exhaust fan is working properly and adequately sized for your bathroom. If moisture consistently lingers after showers (longer than 20 minutes), have your ventilation system evaluated.
While modern wall systems are durable, heavy impacts can cause damage. Use caution with hard objects near walls. Don't use your shower walls as shelving or support for heavy items.
Mineral deposits from hard water can leave spots on surfaces.
Solution: Wipe with a soft cloth and mild dish soap. For stubborn spots, a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar works well (test first on an inconspicuous area).
Buildup from body wash, shampoo, and soap products.
Solution: Regular rinsing after showers prevents this. For existing buildup, warm water with a soft cloth and mild soap removes it easily.
Black or green discoloration on caulk lines.
Solution: Clean with a soft brush and mild soap. For stubborn mold, use a 50/50 water/white vinegar solution. Replace caulk if mold keeps returning despite cleaning.
Surfaces looking less shiny than they used to.
Solution: This is usually soap or mineral buildup. A thorough cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by drying with a soft cloth, typically restores the shine.
Need Help With a Specific Issue?
Our team is here to help. Contact us for guidance on caring for your specific bathroom system.
Call 949-556-4514