Porcelain, ceramic, and different kinds of flooring tiles are available in the market to install on your shower floor. But, many people like to use natural pebble stone in their shower floor to get a vibe like a flowing river.
The river steam may clean the river’s stone, but your shower’s pebble stone will not be cleaned itself. In addition, the pebble stone floor has a maximum percentage of grout, and gaps, where the dirt, grime, mold, and mildew will build up easily and quickly. In that case, you have to know how to clean natural stone pebble shower floors to maintain their aesthetic shine.
You can use mild detergent and a soft nylon scrubbing brush to scrub and clean the pebble stone. If needed, you can also use one portion of vinegar and 16 portions of warm water for stubborn stains and mold. After that, rinse the floor with clean water and dry.
This article will show you 4 possible ways to clean your shower tiles without doing any damage. We also share some exclusive tips on how to maintain pebble shower floors. So, let’s dive into the discussion.
Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for cleaning and maintenance of your specific natural stone pebble shower floor.
How To Clean Pebble Shower Floor?
You have to keep in mind some crucial information about the stone. Such as whether the stone is sealed or not. Whether the floor grouts are concrete or epoxy. Because depending on that, the cleaning methods, ways, and steps will vary.
Moreover, many people think it is hard to clean pebble shower floors. That’s why it is important to know the answer to this question to mentally prepare for your DIY job.
Are Pebble Shower Floor Hard To Clean?
One word answer is yes; it is harder to clean the pebble stone shower floor than other tiles. Here are some of the reasons
- Installing natural pebble stones on your shower floor contains multiple pebbles, grout, and gaps. But, all the stones, grouts, and gaps are not equal. So, you will find it hard to move the scrubber between the stones and grouts when scrubbing.
- As the floor has a lot of grout, the dirt, water stain, mold, and mildew will easily build up there. Even the germs find the place a heaven to increase their propagation.
- This type of floor requires extra time, elbow grease, and patience to clean the floors properly.
That’s why the stone pebble shower floors are harder to clean. But, if you regularly clean the floor and know the right process, then there is nothing to worry about. So now it is high time to check out the different natural stone pebble shower floor cleaning methods.
Method – 1 Using a Homemade DIY Cleaner
First, we like to share a homemade solution to clean the shower floor because this doesn’t cost you any bucks. The ingredients and tools that you need to make this homemade natural stone shower cleaner are available in your home.
The list of things you need
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 16 tablespoon warm water
- A middle-size spray bottle
- Soft bristle scrubbing brush
- One bucket of clean water
- Long headed mop
- Sponge or microfiber cloth
Step 1 – Prepare the solution
Pour one tablespoon of white vinegar and 16 tablespoons of warm water into the spray bottle. Then shake the bottle to mix the ingredients properly to make the cleaning solution.
Step 2 – Apply the solution
Now, spray the solution in a thin layer on the floor. If your floor has extremely water skid marks or stubborn stains, spray a double or triple layer of solution. Keep the solution on the floor for 5-10 minutes to set and loosen the specks of dirt.
Step 3 – Scrub the floor
Take the scrubbing brush and scrub the floor gently with little elbow pressure. When you complete full floor scrubbing, wet the mop into the bucket’s water and rinse the floor. Lastly, dry the floor with a microfiber cloth.
Method – 2 Using Mild Dishwashing Detergent
If the first method doesn’t work well to clean your stone shower floor, then you can follow the second method because it is slightly stronger than the first one. You can use vegetable formulated or alkaline-based mild detergent to serve your purpose. This type of detergent doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that damage or reduce the stone’s shine.
The list of things you need
- ⅓ cup of mild detergent
- ⅔ cup of warm water
- A middle-size spray bottle
- Soft bristle scrubbing brush
- One bucket of clean water
- Long headed mop
- Sponge or microfiber cloth
Step 1 – Make soapy water
Pour ⅓ cup of alkaline-based mild detergent and ⅔ cup of warm water into the spray bottle. Then start shaking the bottle to make soapy water with the ingredients.
Step 2 – Scrub the grout
The next step is to apply the solution to the stone and grout and scrub them to remove all stains and spots.
Step 3 – Clean soapy residue
Simply dump the mop into the water and rinse the floor to clean the soap scum and solution’s soapy residue. Lastly, wipe the floor with a sponge.
Method – 3 Using Stone Cleaner
You can also clean the stone with stone cleaner instead of a homemade solution or detergent. You will find different kinds and sizes of stone cleaner depending on stone types. Some stone cleaners are formulated for limestone, granite, pebble, or marble. Some are even manufactured for general purposes, which you can use to clean every stone.
So we suggest you, if you know the stone types, then it is good to choose that specific stone cleaner. But, if you don’t know your shower floor stone types, it is better to choose a general stone cleaner. On top-notch, the stone cleaners are not that much expensive.
The list of things you need
- Stone cleaner
- Soft bristle scrubbing brush
- One bucket of clean water
- Long headed mop
- Sponge or microfiber cloth
Step 1 – Spray stone cleaner
You will find the stone cleaner in a can or spray bottle. Just spray the stone cleaner on the floor, let the liquid rest for some minutes to set in, and scrub the stone with the scrubbing brush.
Step 2 – Rinse and dry the floor
Now, rinse the floor with clean water two to three times. So, the cleaner’s odor and residue will leave the floor. Wipe the floor to dry.
Best cleaner for stone shower floor
| Brand & Product Name | Type of Cleaner | Suitable Stone Types | pH Balanced | Biodegradable | Size (fl. oz / ml) | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| StoneTech Revitalizer | Daily Cleaner | Marble, Granite, Limestone, Travertine | Yes | Yes | 24 fl. oz / 710 ml | $15.99 |
| Black Diamond Stoneworks | Heavy-Duty Cleaner | Marble, Granite, Slate, Limestone, Travertine | Yes | Yes | 32 fl. oz / 946 ml | $19.95 |
| Granite Gold Daily Cleaner | Daily Cleaner | Granite, Marble, Travertine, Quartzite, Slate | Yes | Yes | 24 fl. oz / 710 ml | $12.95 |
| Method Daily Shower Spray | Daily Cleaner | Marble, Granite, Limestone, Travertine | Yes | Yes | 28 fl. oz / 828 ml | $7.49 |
| Better Life Natural Stone Cleaner | All-Purpose Cleaner | Marble, Granite, Limestone, Slate, Travertine | Yes | Yes | 32 fl. oz / 946 ml | $9.99 |
Method – 4 Using a Steam Cleaner
When your shower floor is covering a large space, following any of these three methods will be a very laborious, time-consuming, and tedious job. In that case, using a steam cleaner may be the best option for you as it offers you chemical-free natural cleaning that is not harmful. But, it will also be very expensive if you don’t have a steam cleaner.
If you have a steam cleaner in your home, then luckily, you can use that one to serve this purpose. Or we will recommend choosing any options from the three methods unless you have a steam cleaner.
The list of things you need
- A hand-held steam cleaner
- One bucket of clean water
- Long headed mop
- Sponge or microfiber cloth
Step 1 – Setting steam level
Take the handheld steam cleaner and set the steam level at low to medium heat. Because high heat will discolor the stone and reduce its shininess.
Step 2- Identify stubborn satin
Divide your shower floor into some small sections depending on the stubborn satin. It will help you determine which space needs how many minutes of heat to remove the stains properly.
Step 3 – Apply steam
Apply steam heat from 3-6 inches above from the floor for 2-4 minutes or until the dirt will remove. Do the same thing as long as you don’t cover the full shower floor.
Step 4 – Rinse the floor
Here, use the mop to rinse the floor and clean the loose dirt. After that, dry the floor with a sponge.
These 4 simple methods are highly effective in cleaning the stone shower floor. So keep in mind these simple solutions to answer your question of how to clean river rock flooring.
Some Useful Tips On How To Clean Pebble Rock Flooring
- When you notice the stones need sealant, don’t delay. Try to use sealer as early as possible. Otherwise, the stone’s joint will loosen.
- After taking a bath, leave the shower door open to pass natural air to dry the excess moisture.
- Be careful about the shower inside humidity level.
- Thoroughly clean the floor every week and deep clean every two weeks.
- Never use a hard scrubbing brush and sponge when cleaning. Don’t over rub the stones; it will scratch the stone and notice a white film on your shower floor after drying.
- Never use any harsh chemical-based cleaners to clean the shower floor.
- You don’t need to take any professional cleaner’s service for cleaning the pebble stones unless there are extremely tough stains. Because appointing any professional cleaner unnecessarily costs you.
Best cleaner for pebble shower floor
| Brand & Product Name | Type | Suitable Surfaces | Cleaning Action | Eco-Friendly | Scent | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Method Daily Shower Cleaner | Spray | Pebble, Tile, Stone | Preventative | Yes | Eucalyptus Mint | $8 – $12 |
| 2. Black Diamond Stoneworks | Concentrate | Pebble, Tile, Stone | Deep Cleaning | Yes | Citrus | $15 – $20 |
| 3. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day | Spray | Pebble, Tile, Stone | Gentle & Effective | Yes | Lemon Verbena | $7 – $10 |
| 4. Granite Gold Shower Cleaner | Spray | Pebble, Tile, Stone | pH Balanced Formula | Yes | None | $6 – $9 |
| 5. Better Life Natural Tub & Tile Cleaner | Spray | Pebble, Tile, Stone | Plant-Based Formula | Yes | Unscented | $5 – $8 |
River Rock Shower Floor Problems
River rock shower floors can be a beautiful addition to any bathroom, but they can also come with their fair share of problems.
One common issue is the accumulation of grime and dirt between the pebbles. This can make the floor look dirty and unappealing. Another problem is the difficulty in cleaning the grout lines between the pebbles, as they can be hard to reach and clean thoroughly.
Additionally, river rock shower floors can be slippery when wet, posing a safety hazard. To address these problems, it is important to regularly clean the floor using a mild cleaner and a soft brush to remove dirt and grime. Applying a sealer can also help to protect the pebbles and make cleaning easier.
Lastly, using bath mats or non-slip coatings can help to prevent slips and falls on the wet surface. By addressing these common problems, you can ensure that your river rock shower floor remains beautiful and safe.
Removing grout from pebble shower floors
Removing grout from pebble shower floors can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done effectively.
One method is to use a grout removal tool or a small chisel to carefully scrape away the grout from between the pebbles. Be sure to work slowly and gently to avoid damaging the pebbles.
Another option is to use a grout removal solution, which can help to dissolve the grout and make it easier to remove. Apply the solution to the grout lines and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush. Rinse the area thoroughly to remove any residue.
It’s important to note that using abrasive cleaners or tools can scratch the pebbles, so it’s best to avoid them.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove grout from your pebble shower floor and restore its natural beauty.
Removing mold from a pebble shower floor
To effectively remove mold from a pebble shower floor, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the affected areas and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Then, scrub the moldy areas with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse the floor thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
For stubborn mold stains, use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water. Apply the solution to the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
To prevent future mold growth, keep the shower area well-ventilated and dry. Regularly clean the pebble shower floor with a mild detergent and water to maintain cleanliness and prevent mold from returning.
Removing vinegar stain from marble
To remove vinegar stains from marble, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 24 hours. Gently scrub the area with a soft brush or sponge, then rinse and dry. If the stain persists, use a marble-specific stain remover. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners and prevent future stains by wiping spills immediately and using coasters or placemats.
How to Clean Pebble Stone Patio
To keep your pebble stone patio looking clean and beautiful, regular maintenance is key. Here are some simple steps to help you effectively clean your pebble stone patio.
First, start by removing any loose debris such as leaves, dirt, or twigs. You can use a broom or a leaf blower to sweep away the surface debris.
Next, prepare a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a mild detergent or stone cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners as they can damage the pebble stones.
Using a soft-bristle brush or a mop, gently scrub the patio surface with the cleaning solution. Pay extra attention to any stained or heavily soiled areas.
After scrubbing, rinse the patio thoroughly with clean water. You can use a hose or a pressure washer on a low setting to remove any remaining soap residue.
To prevent future stains and maintain the appearance of your pebble stone patio, consider applying a sealer. A high-quality stone sealer will help protect the stones from stains and make them easier to clean in the future.
Finally, allow the patio to air dry completely before using it again.
Related Questions
How to clean mold from pebble shower floor?
You should clean the pebble shower floor every week to keep it free from mold and mildew build-up. Throw any pH-neutral bleach on the floor and sprinkle some warm water. Now, scrub the floor to remove mold and rinse the floor.
How do you clean a natural stone shower floor?
The first and foremost condition to clean the natural stone is to use pH neutral based cleaning formula. That means you have to use a cleaner whose pH level is 7. Because this cleaner will easily dissolve with water and effectively remove soap scum, shampoo residue, grease, dirt, and debris from the stone. Spray the liquid cleaner, scrub the floor, and rinse.
Is a pebble shower floor a good idea?
Yes, installing pebble stone on the shower floor is a good idea because its non-slip surface will offer you excellent traction. As a result, you can easily avoid slippery bathroom falls and unexpected injury. So pebble stones are a good choice for your shower floor.
How long does a pebble shower floor last?
The pebble shower floor will last at least 15 years with the proper installation, care, and maintenance. You can also enhance the lifespan if you regularly clean the floor and use the right cleaners.
How often reseal pebble shower floor?
The experts of pebble shower floors recommend resealing the shower floor every 6 months to one year. The time will vary based on the usage of the floor. If you use the floor daily many times, you should reseal after 6 months, and for light use, it can be one year.
Can you use baking soda on the pebble shower floor?
Yes, you can use baking soda with white vinegar on the pebble shower floor. You have to make a paste with equal parts of baking soda and vinegar and apply the paste on the floor. Next scrub the floor to remove the water skids and stubborn satin. Then rinse the floor with plain water.
What can I use to clean natural stone?
Homemade cleaner, mild detergent, and specific stone cleaners are available to clean natural stone. You can use any one of the three options as per your requirement. If you use a stone cleaner, you have to follow the manufacturer's recommendation that you will find on the level to use the cleaner efficiently.
Are pebble shower floors hard to keep clean?
Pebble shower floors can be more challenging to clean compared to flat, smooth surfaces. The uneven texture and crevices between pebbles can trap dirt, soap scum, and grime, requiring more effort and detailed cleaning to keep them looking pristine.
Is pebble stone good for a shower floor?
Pebble stone can be a good choice for a shower floor due to its natural texture, which can provide traction and prevent slipping. Additionally, it adds a unique aesthetic appeal to the shower space. However, maintenance and cleaning of pebble shower floors might require more attention compared to smoother surfaces.
Conclusion
Finally, we have come to the last word of our discussion on how to clean natural stone pebble shower floors.
Hopefully, you will like all the 4 methods as they require less equipment, less preparation, less elbow grease.
No matter which method you apply on your river rocking floor, try to be mindful about its steps to get the maximum results.
