How to Clean Swanstone Shower Walls

Swanstone, a brand name for a synthetic product made by Swan, is designed to be a durable alternative to acrylic, stone and tile surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms. This compression-molded cast polymer withstands many types of chemicals and cleaners but could be damaged by harsh chemicals. To safely clean Swanstone shower walls, tubs or utility sinks, avoid chemicals that aren't safe for use on plastics. Rinse the cleaners off thoroughly afterward to help protect the Swanstone.

Cleaning Swanstone Shower Walls

Clean Swanstone shower walls once a week or as necessary to keep the shower free from soap scum and mineral deposits. Apply a mild, nonabrasive household cleaner to a damp sponge and wipe down the shower walls. A spray-on cleaner is also acceptable as long as it's safe for acrylics. Rinse out the sponge and then wipe down the shower walls again with the damp sponge within five minutes of applying the cleaning product.

To remove hard-water spots, also known as mineral deposits, wipe them down with a damp cloth and a little white vinegar. Vinegar cuts through mineral deposits just like chemical-based products designed for the same purpose. Allow the shower walls to air dry or wipe them down with a dry cloth. If you don't care for the scent of vinegar, open a bathroom window as you work.

Swanstone shower base cleaning is the same as cleaning the shower walls. Generally, avoid using harsh abrasives or chemicals that may damage acrylic or plastic. The same goes for Swanstone sink care, including utility sinks. If a dirty residue remains even after cleaning with a mild household product, scrub with a damp melamine sponge "eraser" cleaning product or scrub the area with a mild abrasive and a nylon scrub pad or brush. Do not use metal scrub pads, as these may damage the Swanstone.

Preventive Maintenance for Showers

To help keep your shower walls free from mildew and mineral deposits, squeegee them after using the shower to remove excess water. Drying the shower walls with a clean towel also helps, as does opening the window or running the exhaust fan during or after shower use. Excessive moisture can be problematic, causing mildew or mold on surfaces that aren't cleaned regularly – even the ceiling. Drying off the shower walls and even the area surrounding the shower helps prevent mildew.

Cleaning Products to Avoid

While Swanstone products are durable, they're not completely immune from damage, just like any other shower wall surface. Do not use any cleaning product that may damage acrylic, plastic or polyester. Read the label before purchasing any cleaner, as this is the best way to find out which surfaces can and cannot be cleaned with that product.

Don't use items that may scratch a typical plastic or acrylic shower, such as metal scouring pads or any other metal materials. Those no-rinse, leave-in-place shower cleaners are also off limits because they could discolor or otherwise damage the Swanstone.

Veritek and High-Gloss Surface Care

To clean Veritek and high-gloss surfaces such as bathtubs made by Swan, use the same care as you would on Swanstone products. A thin coat of wax designed for cars or for fiberglass can also be applied to the clean surface to help keep the finish looking its best. Apply the wax only to the walls of the shower or tub, as a waxed surface on the floor of a tub or shower could prove slippery and dangerous.

The wax can also be applied to clean fixtures to help keep them shiny and free from mineral deposits. Buff the wax with a soft buffing sponge after application to remove the haze, revealing shiny metal fixtures.