How Diego Fernández Cleans a Shower Enclosure with Washing-Up Liquid

Diego Fernández recommends a straightforward blend for cutting through grease on a shower enclosure: water and a small amount of washing-up liquid. The same product that breaks down grease on dishes can also lift soap deposits, body oils and dull marks from glass. The key is using the correct dilution, allowing it time to work and rinsing thoroughly so no film is left behind.

Why does washing-up liquid work on a shower enclosure?

Washing-up liquid contains surfactants, which help release grease and grime from a surface. In a shower enclosure, this is helpful because the whitish layer is not always limescale alone: it is often a combination of soap, shampoo, skin oils and dust.

When diluted, the washing-up liquid spreads more easily over the glass and reaches the corners, tracks and edges of the shower screen. It does not need to create excessive foam to be effective; too much foam generally makes rinsing harder and may leave marks on the glass once it dries.

How should you prepare the mixture correctly?

The most practical ratio is 500 ml of water to 1 teaspoon of washing-up liquid. This dilution cleans effectively without making the shower enclosure slippery or leaving it covered in residue.

The solution should be prepared simply, without hazardous combinations:

• Pour 500 ml of water into a clean spray bottle.
• Add 1 teaspoon of mild washing-up liquid.
• Shake gently to combine the ingredients without producing too much foam.
• Do not combine it with bleach, ammonia or strong disinfectants.
• Label the bottle if you intend to keep the solution for a few days.

How do you apply it to shower glass?

Spray the solution over dry or slightly damp glass, focusing on areas with water marks, grease and built-up soap. Leave it for a few minutes so the washing-up liquid can loosen the dirt before you start scrubbing.

Next, clean the corners with a soft sponge, microfibre cloth or a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water, then finish with a window squeegee or dry cloth. This final step prevents fresh droplets from drying on the glass and creating marks.

Which precautions prevent marks and scratches?

A shower enclosure may become scratched if cleaned with wire wool, an abrasive sponge or harsh products. Glass with a protective film, anti-residue treatment or metal profiles also requires care, as some strong products can damage the finish.

For safe cleaning, keep the following points in mind:

• Test the mixture on a small area before using it for the first time.
• Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge.
• Do not allow the solution to dry on the glass before rinsing.
• Dry the tracks and corners to limit moisture build-up.
• Clean lightly and regularly rather than waiting for grease to harden.

When is this mixture not enough?

The water-and-washing-up-liquid mixture works very well against grease, soap and recent dirt, but it may not remove old limescale marks on its own. If the glass has hardened mineral deposits, treat that area with a product designed for hard-water residue, always taking the shower enclosure material into account.

The best results come from a routine: clean with the diluted solution, rinse well and dry the glass after showering. This way, the washing-up liquid removes the oily layer before it adheres, helping the shower enclosure remain clear without relying on aggressive products or heavy scrubbing.