Last Updated on October 16, 2023
Cleaning aluminum shower frames that are dull and grimy can help maintain your shower enclosure’s overall appearance and longevity. Aluminum is known for its resistance to corrosion and rust, but it can still accumulate dirt, soap scum, and other residues over time.
To clean your aluminum shower door & frame effectively, you need to soften the debris with steam by running the shower hot for a few minutes. Then, use the scraper to scrape away any stuck-on debris gently. After that, wipe down the frame with a cloth or sponge soaked in a mixture of mild detergent and warm water.
Here, we’ll discuss how to bring back the sparkle to your aluminum shower frames using simple steps that anyone can follow. So keep reading to eliminate dirt from your aluminum shower frames and experience a fresh, clean shower experience.
How to Clean Aluminium Shower Frames: Steps to Follow
Cleaning aluminum shower frames can be challenging, but there are effective methods to keep your aluminum shower frames looking clean and well-maintained. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean aluminum shower frames:
- STEP 1. Gather your supplies
- STEP 2. Soften debris with steam
- STEP 3. Scrape away debris
- STEP 4. Wipe down the frame
- STEP 5. Address stubborn spots
- STEP 6. Clean shower doors
- STEP 7. Apply water repellent (optional)
- STEP 8. Regular maintenance
STEP 1. Gather Your Supplies
First, ensure you have all the necessary supplies for cleaning the aluminum shower frames. You’ll need:
- A handheld steamer or hot water access to help loosen dirt or grime,
- A narrow plastic scraper tool for removing any stubborn residue,
- Microfiber cloths for wiping down the frames,
- A natural cleaning solution to remove soap scum or mineral deposits,
- Cotton swabs are handy for reaching into tight corners and crevices,
- A stiff-bristle brush to scrub away any built-up grime and
- A shower door water repellent to keep the frames looking clean and shiny.
STEP 2. Soften Debris with Steam
Now, use a handheld steamer or run on its hottest setting to soften any debris build-up on your aluminum frames, making removing them easier. Here’s how you can effectively soften the debris with steam:
- Start by preparing your handheld steamer or adjusting your shower to the hottest setting.
- Hold the handheld steamer about 2-3 inches from the aluminum frame and move it back and forth. If using the shower, allow the steam to fill the bathroom and let it sit for a few minutes.
STEP 3. Scrape Away Debris
Once the debris has been softened with steam, gently scrape away any remaining build-up from the aluminum frame using a narrow plastic scraper tool. Make sure to be thorough and careful in your scraping to avoid scratching the surface of the frame.
Start at one end of the frame and work your way across, applying gentle pressure to remove the softened debris. Pay special attention to any areas where the build-up could be more stubborn. Use the narrow edge of the scraper tool to get into tight corners and crevices.
Continue scraping until all visible debris has been removed from the aluminum frame. Once you have finished scraping, wipe down the door frame with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.
STEP 4. Wipe Down the Frame
To properly wipe down the frame, wrap a microfiber cloth around the scraper tool and go over the entire surface again. This removes any remaining debris clinging to the aluminum completely.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively wipe down your aluminum shower frame:
- Start at the top corner of the door frame and glide your way down in a smooth, sweeping motion.
- Apply moderate pressure to ensure the cloth picks up dirt or grime.
- Pay special attention to the corners and crevices, where buildup is often more pronounced.
- Repeat the process on both sides of the frame, ensuring you cover every inch.
STEP 5. Address Stubborn Spots
Now that you have wiped down the frame of your aluminum shower, it’s time to address any remaining stubborn spots. These spots can be quite frustrating but don’t worry; there are effective methods to tackle them.
To make it easier for you to compare the two options, here is a table summarizing their benefits:
| Distilled White Vinegar | Mr. Clean Magic Eraser |
| Affordable and easily accessible | Specifically designed for stubborn spots |
| Natural and non-toxic | Safe for use on shower tracks |
| It can be used with cotton swabs or sprayed directly | Can effectively clean grooves and crevices |
STEP 6. Clean Shower Doors
While misting the doors with vinegar, use a stiff-bristle brush to remove soap scum, mold, and mildew. Make sure to cover the entire interior of the doors, paying special attention to any areas with stubborn spots.
Mix half vinegar and half soapy water to tackle those tougher spots and scrub the doors thoroughly. This will help break down any built-up residue and leave your shower doors clean and shiny.
Also, if you have used Magic Eraser products on the aluminum frame, you can also use them to clean the shower doors. Wet the Magic Eraser and gently scrub any remaining grime or stains.
STEP 7. Apply Water Repellent (Optional)
For added protection against future buildup, consider applying a shower door water repellent. This will help prevent soap scum and mineral deposits from forming again. After cleaning your shower doors, you can apply the water repellent to maintain their cleanliness and shine.
To start, make sure the doors are clean and dry. Then, using a clean cloth or sponge, apply a thin layer of the water repellent to the entire surface of the doors. Make sure to cover all areas, including the edges and corners. Allow the repellent to dry completely, following the instructions on the product label.
What should not be used to clean aluminum?
Avoid scrubbing the sink with abrasive brushes or pads, as they can damage the soft metal. When it comes to cleaning aluminum, there are certain products and methods that you should avoid.
Here are two items that you should not use to clean aluminum:
- Harsh chemicals: Avoid using bleach ammonia, or Pine-Sol on aluminum surfaces. These harsh chemicals can contribute to discoloration and damage to the metal.
- Steel wool or stiff wire brushes: Using steel wool or wire brushes can scratch the aluminum surface, leaving behind unsightly marks. Opt for softer materials like microfiber cloths or soft sponges instead.
Effortlessly Make Your Aluminum Shower Doors Shine by Cleaning Them
Cleaning aluminum shower doors and frames is a simple process that can be done using household items. Following the above-mentioned steps, you can effectively remove dirt, grime, and hard water stains from your shower frames. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that can scratch the aluminum surface.
Remember, the key to effectively cleaning aluminum shower frames is regular maintenance and using appropriate cleaning methods to prevent the buildup of debris and soap scum.