How To Clean Bathroom Chrome

The finale to a thorough bathroom cleanup is polishing your chrome until it’s shining. But what exactly is the best cleaner for chrome? There are products you can purchase to polish chrome as well as DIY methods. Here’s how to keep your bathroom chrome shiny, including tips for removing stubborn stains without chemicals. Here are some additional tips on how to clean your bathroom faster.

What Is the Best Cleaner for Chrome?

Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleanser Liquid gets excellent reviews for cleaning surfaces including bathroom chrome. It’s non-toxic, surprisingly gentle and safely removes soap scum, mineral deposits and water spots from dull bathroom hardware.

Another simple solution? Plain old dish soap. Fill the sink with warm water, add a few drops of mild dish soap. Use one microfiber cloth to clean, followed by a dry one to polish.

Remember: Chrome is a soft metal, so always avoid abrasive cleaners, scrub pads or stiff-bristled brushes, which can cause damage. Stick to microfiber cloths and gentle cleansers.

The Secret to Shiny Chrome Faucets

Chrome polish designed for cars works on bathroom faucets, too!

How To Remove Hard Water Stains from a Chrome Faucet the Natural Way

Here are three targeted—and natural!—tactics for removing stubborn hard water stains from chrome.

How to Clean Bathroom Chrome with White Vinegar

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a small bucket or large bowl.

• Douse a microfiber cloth in the mixture and wrap it around the spout, secured with a rubber band, if necessary. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

• While you wait, dip an old toothbrush in the vinegar solution. Clean the base and handles, plus any other hard-to-reach areas.

• Rust spots on bathroom fixtures? Crumple up a piece of aluminum foil and dip in the vinegar solution. Scrub with medium force. Repeat, as necessary. Or try any of these hacks to prevent rust spots.

• Remove the cloth from the spout, then wipe down all cleaned areas with a separate dry cloth.

Learn the essential recipes for DIY household cleaners.

How to Clean Bathroom Chrome with Lemon

1. Rub a lemon half directly on the stained chrome. Have more halves on hand to use, as needed.

2. Allow the juice to sit on the chrome for 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Wipe clean with a damp microfiber cloth.

4. Wipe dry with a separate microfiber cloth to reveal the full shine.

How to Clean Bathroom Chrome with Baking Soda

1. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of warm water. Mix well.

2. Apply to tarnished chrome. Let sit for 15 minutes.

3. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth.

4. Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove excess moisture and to make chrome shimmer.

These cleaning products are an either-or situation: DO NOT MIX! Find out why.

Every product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

FAQ 

Can I use an abrasive cleaner on chrome?

You should never use an abrasive cleaner on chrome because it can leave scratches and damage the chrome plating. Always opt for gentle soaps or DIY methods.

How do I polish chrome after cleaning?

To polish chrome after cleaning, you can use a chrome polish like Simichrome Polish. You can also mix baking soda with warm water, apply it the affected areas and wipe it with a damp cloth after letting it sit for 15 minutes.