What Are the Top Shower Cleaning Products?

For an all-in-one shower cleaner

OxiClean has long been recognized for its powerful cleaning and stain-removal capabilities, mainly in the laundry department. However, the OxiClean Bathroom Cleaner stands out for its performance in cleaning showers, bathtubs, and bathrooms overall, earning it the top spot as the best shower cleaner.

We particularly appreciate its effectiveness without the use of bleach, especially when tackling stains and eliminating soap scum. It's also safe to use on all hard, non-porous surfaces, making it ideal for cleaning your entire bathroom.

Best of all, when used as instructed, it can sanitize and eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, ensuring a deep and thorough clean. If you're looking for a dependable shower cleaner to maintain its shine regularly, this is your go-to product.

Important Note: Stubborn stains may require additional assistance, such as using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or a scrubbing brush, along with this spray.

For an environmentally-friendly option

Many bathroom cleaners contain strong chemicals, which can be harmful to both your health and the environment. That's why we recommend ECOS Bathroom Cleaner as the best eco-conscious choice for a shower cleaner.

It’s free from harsh chemicals like ammonia and excels at preventing hard water stains and other buildups. What we love most about this cleaner is that it’s EPA Safer Choice Certified and holds an A rating from the EWG, ensuring it’s both eco-friendly and safe to use.

We believe it’s a fantastic option for regular upkeep or as a daily cleaner to prevent soap scum buildup. The refreshing tea tree scent, derived from natural essential oils, will leave your bathroom smelling like a spa retreat.

Important Note: It may not be entirely effective on stubborn stains.

For daily upkeep

Daily shower cleaners are essential for anyone who wants to mitigate heavy duty stains and prolong time between deep cleanings. We love the Mrs. Meyer's Probiotic Daily Shower Spray Cleaner that contains probiotic micro-helpers that are activated when met with grime and buildup. 

We particularly appreciate that it’s free of bleach and requires no rinsing or wiping—just spray and let it do the work. It’s also safe for a variety of shower types and surfaces. This shower cleaner is available in two scents: lavender and lemon verbena. We enjoy both of these garden-inspired aromas, and if you do too, this daily shower cleaner is a must-have for your bathroom.

Important Note: The lavender scent may be too strong for some people, especially those sensitive to fragrances.

For tackling mold and mildew

Showers are a prime environment for mold and mildew growth, so it's crucial to have a cleaner that can effectively tackle this issue. We recommend the Clorox Plus Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover, which not only eliminates mold but also prevents soap scum, hard water deposits, and mildew—all without requiring any scrubbing, wiping, or rinsing.

One of the benefits of this cleaner is its versatility, as it can be safely used on a variety of surfaces such as glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles, grout, vinyl, fiberglass, and plastic. For best results, spray it right after showering to keep your tiles and grout bright and mold-free.

It’s worth mentioning that this cleaner is ideal for ongoing prevention and maintenance. Showers with heavy buildup of grime, mold, or mildew may require up to four weeks of consistent use to break down the buildup. Still, it’s considered one of the top choices for eliminating mold and mildew on contact while preventing future growth.

Important to note: This cleaner contains bleach and has a strong scent, which may not be suitable for individuals with sensitivities.

For use in areas beyond just the bathroom

If you're looking for an all-purpose cleaner that works on a variety of surfaces in your home rather than one specific to the shower, CLR Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover is an excellent choice.

This spray is highly effective at breaking down lime deposits, rust stains, and hard water buildup on a wide variety of surfaces. From glass shower doors to bike spokes, it’s a convenient, all-in-one solution. Simply spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, wipe it off with a cloth or brush, and rinse.

It’s the most adaptable cleaner on our list, and it even boasts an A rating from the EWG, so you can trust that it’s made with safe ingredients.

One important note: Stubborn stains may need a little extra effort or a couple of applications to fully remove.

For sparkling clean shower doors

Anyone with glass shower doors knows how difficult it can be to maintain them and keep hard water stains and other buildup at bay. The Rain-X X-Treme Clean Shower Door Cleaner is designed specifically to tackle this tough grime commonly found on shower doors, which can be a challenge to remove.

We appreciate that this gel works on various glass surfaces, including windshields. When used alongside the Rain-X Shower Door Water Repellent, it makes quick work of hard water stains. For optimal results, apply the gel to a soft, damp cloth and use circular motions to work it into the surface. It’s a fantastic product for keeping your shower looking pristine and sparkling clean.

One important note: If your shower glass doors have accumulated hard water stains over many years, this gel may lighten them, but it may not completely remove them, even after several applications.

For tough grout lines

The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Ultra Bath is one of our top picks for the best shower cleaners due to its outstanding performance and versatility. This soft yet abrasive melamine easily wipes away grout stains and soap scum. We love the 3-in-1 combo of Dawn dish soap and Febreze’s lavender scent in the Magic Eraser, which efficiently cuts through even the toughest messes. Whether your grout is black or white, this small but powerful sponge can bring it back to life. It’s definitely one of the best shower cleaners and a must-have product to keep on hand for cleaning chores.

Important to note: This sponge may begin to tear or fall apart if excessive pressure is applied or if it’s used too frequently in one area.

For hard water stains that require extra care

While hard water stains are most often seen on glass shower doors, they can also appear on many other surfaces around your shower and sink. The Bring It On Cleaner Hard Water Stain Remover is the perfect solution for these stubborn marks.

This liquid cleaner uses oxygen bleach, which is a more eco-friendly alternative to chlorine bleach and gentler for those with sensitivities. We love its refreshing mint scent and its ability to remove rust and hard water stains from various surfaces, including grout and tile.

The cleaner comes with four scrubbing pads that can be attached to any cordless household drill, although the liquid itself is effective on its own for tackling hard water stains. The pads are particularly helpful for scrubbing bathtubs, tile, grout, and other shower surfaces that accumulate stains.

Important to note: The pads might be too abrasive for glass surfaces and could cause scratching.

For refreshing your showerhead

While bathtubs, shower doors, and walls usually get attention during cleaning, the showerhead is often forgotten. To give it a deep clean, try the Durgol Universal Multipurpose Descaler, which works wonders on multiple surfaces.

We appreciate that this descaler can be used on various items that typically accumulate limescale, calcium, and other build-ups, from showerheads to coffee makers. If you have hard water, your showerhead might need a descaling, and your skin and hair will certainly benefit from it.

Important Information: This liquid shower cleaner provides clear instructions for cleaning filter coffee machines, showerheads, nozzles, and faucet aerators, but is less specific for items like kettles, pots, and vases. However, soaking these objects for up to an hour will effectively remove hard water stains.

For drains that refuse to drain properly

Tackling your shower drain can be an unpleasant task, but with Drano Max Gel Drain Clog Remover and Cleaner, it becomes much easier. This powerful gel starts working quickly, with noticeable effects in as little as seven minutes, and it takes between 15 to 30 minutes to fully clear the clog.

For more stubborn clogs, using the entire bottle might be necessary, but Drano remains the top choice for clearing shower drains without harming the pipes. Plus, its affordability and reliable performance make it a great value overall.

Important to note: Some users may find the strong scent of this product to be overpowering.

Final Thoughts

If you're searching for an excellent all-around shower cleaner, OxiClean Bathroom Cleaner is our top recommendation due to its powerful cleaning ability and capacity to eliminate bacteria and viruses. For those seeking an eco-friendly option with a fresh, naturally sourced scent, Ecos Bathroom Cleaner is the way to go.

How to Shop for Shower Cleaners Like an Expert

Choose the right type based on how you intend to use it.

Shower cleaners are available in a variety of types and formulas, each designed for different purposes. According to both Willatt and Russum, the best choice depends on the surface you're cleaning and your personal preferences.

For instance, foams often work independently without requiring scrubbing, while tools like brushes or melamine sponges may demand more effort. Spray cleaners are also a popular choice due to their convenience and quick rinse-off features.

"Each product contains specific chemicals designed for particular surfaces, so it's essential to carefully read the label and instructions," advises Willatt.

Pay attention to the ingredients.

Willatt stresses the importance of examining the labels on shower cleaners not only for instructions and recommended surfaces but also to check the ingredients. Some ingredients can be quite harsh under certain conditions.

When selecting a shower cleaner, make sure it’s safe for both your health and the surfaces you're cleaning, as well as your plumbing system, advises Russum. Avoid cleaners with bleach, ammonia, or hydrochloric acid, and instead look for ingredients like citric acid, coco-glucoside, decyl glucoside, or vinegar. For marble or natural stone, opt for cleaners with a neutral pH of 7 to avoid damage.

Verify the recommended surfaces before use.

An essential aspect of choosing a shower cleaner is knowing which surfaces it can safely be used on. While a product labeled as a “bathroom cleaner” might seem like a good all-purpose option, it may not be suitable for every surface in your bathroom. Additionally, some cleaners may work on a variety of surfaces but fail to clean your shower as thoroughly as you need.

Willatt explains that glass cleaners are generally designed to eliminate streaks but may not be effective at removing stubborn hard water stains. In contrast, mild dish soaps like Dawn dishwashing liquid, when mixed with water, can be useful for cleaning granite or quartz surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals on stone surfaces whenever possible.

Pick a scent that suits you.

Scented shower cleaners can leave a pleasant aroma, especially when used in a steamy shower environment, where the fragrance mixes with the steam. Some shower cleaners have strong, synthetic fragrances, while others are gentler and fresher. Russum advises selecting an unscented cleaner or, if you prefer a scent, one made with natural essential oils.

Questions You Might Have

Will using a daily shower cleaner help maintain a cleaner shower?

Taking just a minute or two to clean your shower after each use can significantly extend the time between deep cleanings. Willatt suggests using a daily shower cleaner and a squeegee—first applying the cleaner and then using the squeegee to remove water and any excess liquid for a dry finish.

“Daily shower sprays are crafted to help prevent mildew and water streaks from accumulating in your shower. They also assist in tackling leftover soap scum that may splash onto the walls while you're rinsing off,” he notes. “Though it may not eliminate every kind of stain or grime, it can stop some and eliminate lingering germs and bacteria.”

What’s the most effective way to deep clean your shower?

Deep cleaning your shower might not be the most enjoyable task, but it’s an important one, especially if you want to avoid problems like mold. Both Russum and Willatt emphasize that regular daily cleaning and periodic deep cleanings will keep your shower looking fresh. Willatt recommends clearing out all bottles, soap, and other items from the shower before you begin cleaning.

“I suggest a biweekly deep clean for your shower,” Russum advises. “Start by wiping down all surfaces with a damp cloth to help the cleaner spread evenly and loosen tough grime. Next, apply a non-acidic shower cleaner and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with warm water and finish by squeegeeing or drying the surfaces with a microfiber towel or cloth.”

For particularly grimy showers, Willatt suggests incorporating bleach, whether oxygen- or chlorine-based, into your thorough cleaning routine.

Are shower cleaners suitable for other bathroom areas?

Some shower cleaners can indeed be used on different surfaces, but it’s crucial to carefully follow the instructions and label. Willatt also advises performing a spot test on a hidden area beforehand.  

“Always examine the labels when buying a shower cleaner to avoid mistakenly purchasing one that isn't universal, which could ruin your shower doors or porcelain tub,” Willatt cautions.

Trust Us on This

This piece was authored by L. Daniela Alvarez, a contributing writer for Mytour with almost three years of experience covering lifestyle topics and product reviews. To create this list, she dedicated several hours researching a variety of shower cleaners and reading customer feedback. She also gathered shopping tips from Chris Willatt, the founder of Alpine Maids, and Kelly Russum, the owner of KC’s 23 ½ Hour Plumbing and Air Conditioning.