How To Clean Chrome Fixtures And Remove Buildup

First, wipe chrome fixture with a dry microfiber cloth, applying gentle pressure to remove accumulated dust. Do this regularly, so you don’t have to do deep cleaning as often. Avoid using abrasive material as they will scratch the surface of your fixture.

To remove soap scum, run a few dryer sheets over the surface of your fixture and apply a bit of pressure on the problem spots. The mild cleaning solution in your dryer sheets helps remove the scum but won’t scratch the surface of your fixture. Used dryer sheets will still work even after doing a cycle in the dryer.

​This works best on chrome fixtures that don’t come in contact with water as often. Soak a sponge or microfiber cloth in warm water then wring out the excess water. Use the damp cloth or sponge to wipe the surface of your fixture.

​For fixtures that come in contact with water a lot, a soapy mixture works better. Combine dishwashing liquid with water in a container and work up a lather. Soak a sponge or microfiber in the solution then apply the lather on your fixture. Wash off the dirt you’ve wiped off by dipping it in soapy water several times. Repeat this process until you remove all the accumulated dirt. For hard-to-reach areas, dip a toothbrush in the soapy mixture and scrub off stubborn dirt and stains.

Make sure to use a cooking spray that’s made from olive or vegetable oil. Spray the fixture lightly and entirely (including the back part) at a close range. Let sit for a few minutes before wiping with a damp microfiber cloth. Wipe carefully and thoroughly to remove all the oil. If the oil gets into the cracks, use a cotton swab to finish the job. Repeat the whole process, if necessary.

These frequent and lighter methods of how to clean chrome fixtures are done for maintenance reasons, so you don’t have to work too hard when the time comes for some deeper cleaning.

Vinegar and water make a potent combination when it comes to cleaning chrome fixtures. Because of its acidic properties, vinegar is capable of dissolving even the most stubborn grime. Just make sure not to dilute the vinegar with too much water so as not to lessen its efficacy.

Start by making a solution of distilled white vinegar and water in equal parts in a bowl (a one-to-one solution should work). Soak a nonabrasive sponge or cloth in the solution then apply on your chrome fixture. Let sit for about 15 minutes, then remove and wipe the area with a dry cloth. Residue should come off easily because of the vinegar’s dissolving action.

For hard-to-reach areas, dip an old toothbrush in the mixture and scrub off calcified mineral deposits from handles and spouts.

To remove stubborn water stains or mineral salts, use the full-strength of your vinegar (do not dilute with water). With a spray bottle, spritz the undiluted vinegar on to your fixture and let sit for about five minutes. Scrub the stains off with an old toothbrush then wipe off with a dry cloth.

To prevent water spots from forming again, wipe the faucet with a clean and dry cloth after each use. This will help minimize buildup as well.

​Baking soda is a powerful cleaner when it comes to cutting through resistant grime. In a small bowl, mix baking soda and water to form a paste with the right thickness and consistency. Place some paste on the fixture by using a microfiber cloth to rub off grime, applying pressure as needed. Rinse the baking soda mixture off with distilled water (avoid using tap water as it will only bring new mineral deposits). After all the baking soda has been carefully rinsed off, dry fixture completely with a clean microfiber cloth.

Lemons are not only effective in cleaning your chrome fixtures; they smell great, too! To clean one fixture, cut 2-3 lemons in half. Use the pith of the lemon to scrub your fixture, applying a bit of pressure as you go along. You can use several piths, if necessary.

If there’s a lot of staining or a considerable buildup of mineral deposits, allow the lemon juice to sit on your fixture for about 3-5 minutes, then wipe off completely with a microfiber cloth. Repeat process as needed.

You can do a deep cleaning of your chrome fixtures when you start noticing the grime buildup and mineral deposits or when the chrome is starting to look dull and dirty.

Keep your fixtures shiny between cleanings by applying chrome polish. This polish is readily available at your local hardware or auto parts store. Follow the instructions as stated on the packaging then rinse off thoroughly.

Wax paper repels dust and dirt. It can also give your fixture the sheen it needs. Scrub your fixture with the waxy side to polish it.

Use a hydrophobic silicone polymer such as Rain-X to protect your fixture from water stains. This polymer is typically used on cars to repel water, allowing it to roll off and preventing it from drying and turning into water spots.

Keeping your chrome fixtures polished and water-repellant will spare you from doing a lot of deep cleaning as well.