· Todd Martin · Home Cleaning  · 23 min read

How To Clean Travertine Tile Showers

Learn how to clean travertine tile showers effectively. Discover safe methods to remove soap scum, hard water, and mildew, keeping your natural stone pristine.

Effortlessly Clean Travertine Tile Showers

Imagine stepping into a shower that feels like a spa. Travertine tile provides this feeling with its warm, earthy tones and unique texture. My own travertine shower is a favorite spot in my home. This beautiful natural stone brings a touch of elegance to any bathroom. However, travertine is also porous and reactive, especially in a wet environment like a shower. This means it needs specific care to keep its beauty. Knowing how to clean travertine tile showers properly is important for its longevity and appearance.

This article guides you through the process. We will cover safe cleaning methods. You will learn about the right tools and supplies to use. We will discuss routine cleaning for daily sparkle. I will also explain how to tackle tough stains like soap scum and hard water. You will find tips for removing mold and mildew safely. We will also look at cleaning grout and the importance of sealing. By the end, you will have a clear plan to maintain your travertine shower’s stunning look.

Takeaway:

  • Always use pH-neutral cleaners. Acidic cleaners damage travertine.
  • Wipe down surfaces after each use. This prevents soap scum and hard water buildup.
  • Seal your travertine regularly. Sealing protects the stone from moisture and stains.
  • Address stains quickly. Fresh stains are easier to remove.
  • Use soft brushes and cloths. Abrasive tools scratch the stone.

To clean travertine tile showers, use pH-neutral stone cleaners or mild dish soap diluted in water. Apply with a soft cloth or sponge. Gently scrub away soap scum and dirt. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry the surfaces to prevent water spots and mineral buildup, protecting the porous stone.

Understanding Your Travertine Tile Shower

Travertine is a natural stone. It forms from mineral deposits in hot springs. Each piece has unique patterns and slight variations in color. This gives your shower a distinctive look. The stone is a type of limestone. It is known for its durability, but it also has open pores. These pores make it different from ceramic or porcelain tiles. The porous nature means travertine absorbs liquids easily. It is sensitive to acidic cleaners. Acids etch the surface, causing permanent damage or dulling the stone.

In a shower environment, travertine faces many challenges. Water, soap, shampoo, and body oils constantly come into contact with the stone. Hard water leaves mineral deposits and streaks. Soap scum builds up quickly. The constant moisture also creates an environment for mold and mildew. If not cleaned properly, these issues can ruin the look of your travertine. They can also degrade the stone itself. Understanding these unique properties is the first step in effective cleaning. Proper cleaning and maintenance methods protect your investment. They keep your shower beautiful for many years. It is important to treat this natural stone with care. This ensures it retains its natural beauty and integrity over time.

Travertine is often used for its aesthetic appeal. Many people choose it for a luxurious bathroom. Knowing its specific needs helps you enjoy it longer. You can learn more about general how to clean travertine tile to understand its overall care. Proper care prevents costly repairs or replacement. My experience shows that gentle, consistent care is always best.

Essential Tools and Supplies for Cleaning Travertine

Cleaning travertine effectively requires the right tools and supplies. Using the wrong products can cause irreversible damage. This is why careful selection is important. My go-to items are always gentle on the stone.

Safe Cleaning Solutions

  • pH-Neutral Stone Cleaner: This is your best friend for travertine. These cleaners are specifically formulated for natural stone. They do not contain harsh acids or alkalis that can etch or dull the surface. Look for products labeled “for natural stone” or “pH-neutral.”
  • Mild Dish Soap: For light cleaning, a small amount of mild dish soap, like Dawn, diluted in warm water works well. This is a common household item. It is gentle enough for everyday use.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: For mold or mildew, a diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide is effective. It is a safer alternative to bleach for natural stone. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.

Necessary Tools

  • Soft-Bristle Brush: A soft brush is perfect for scrubbing grout lines and textured stone surfaces. Avoid stiff or abrasive brushes that can scratch the tile.
  • Microfiber Cloths: These cloths are highly absorbent. They are gentle on surfaces. They are great for wiping down the shower after cleaning and drying.
  • Soft Sponges: Sponges help apply cleaners without scratching. They are useful for larger tile areas.
  • Squeegee: A squeegee removes excess water from the walls and glass after showering. This prevents water spots and soap scum buildup.
  • Spray Bottle: A spray bottle allows for even application of cleaning solutions. This ensures you cover all areas easily.

What to Avoid

  • Acidic Cleaners: Do not use vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia, or harsh bathroom cleaners. These products contain acids that react with travertine. They cause etching, dull spots, and permanent damage. Many common shower cleaners are too acidic.
  • Abrasive Cleaners or Scouring Pads: Steel wool, abrasive powders, or scrubbing pads scratch the stone. They also damage the sealant.
  • Bleach: While bleach kills mold, it can discolor travertine over time. It can also weaken the sealant. Hydrogen peroxide is a safer option.

Always read product labels carefully. Ensure they are safe for natural stone. This preparation makes the cleaning process easier and more effective. You can ensure your shower stays beautiful. Proper tools ensure proper care for your natural stone tile and grout. My advice is to always invest in good quality, gentle cleaning supplies.

Routine Cleaning for Daily Sparkle

Maintaining a travertine tile shower means more than just occasional deep cleaning. Regular, routine care is vital. This prevents the buildup of soap scum, hard water deposits, and mildew. Consistent daily and weekly cleaning saves time and effort in the long run. It also protects your stone from damage. My own routine keeps my shower looking new.

Daily Care Habits

The most effective daily habit is to wipe down your shower after each use. This simple step makes a big difference. Keep a squeegee and a microfiber cloth inside the shower. After showering, quickly squeegee water from the walls and glass. Then, use the microfiber cloth to wipe down any remaining moisture. Pay attention to corners and edges where water tends to pool. This prevents water spots and mineral deposits from forming. These spots are hard to remove once they dry. It also significantly reduces soap scum accumulation. This practice is crucial for any shower tile cleaning.

Weekly Cleaning Protocol

Once a week, give your travertine shower a more thorough but still gentle cleaning. This helps remove any light buildup that daily wiping might miss.

  1. Prepare your cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of pH-neutral stone cleaner or mild dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. For example, two tablespoons of dish soap per gallon of water works well.
  2. Spray the surfaces: Lightly mist the entire travertine shower area, including walls, floor, and grout lines. Let the solution sit for a few minutes. Do not let it dry. This helps loosen dirt and grime.
  3. Gently scrub: Use a soft-bristle brush for grout lines. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth for the tile surfaces. Work in small sections. Apply gentle pressure. Avoid harsh scrubbing that can damage the stone or grout.
  4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse all surfaces with clean, warm water. You can use a spray nozzle if you have one. Ensure all cleaner residue is gone. Any leftover soap can attract more dirt.
  5. Dry completely: Use clean microfiber cloths to dry all travertine surfaces. Drying is essential. It prevents water spots and ensures no moisture is left in the porous stone.

This weekly routine keeps your travertine shower looking fresh. It minimizes the need for harsh chemicals or extensive deep cleaning. My experience confirms that prevention is always easier than cure. Regular care ensures the longevity and beauty of your shower. It is key to keeping a clean shower.

Tackling Tough Stains: Soap Scum and Hard Water

Soap scum and hard water stains are the most common enemies of a beautiful travertine shower. These stubborn residues can dull the stone’s appearance. They also make the shower feel less clean. Thankfully, you can remove them safely without damaging your natural stone. My method focuses on effective but gentle techniques.

Removing Soap Scum from Travertine

Soap scum forms from the reaction of soap with hard water minerals. It leaves a whitish, grimy film.

  1. Prepare a specialized solution: For tougher soap scum, a dedicated alkaline stone cleaner works best. These cleaners are designed to break down soap scum without harming natural stone. Mix the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  2. Apply and dwell: Spray the affected areas generously. Allow the cleaner to sit for 10-15 minutes. This “dwell time” is important. It gives the cleaner time to dissolve the soap scum. Ensure the solution does not dry on the surface. Re-spray if needed.
  3. Gentle agitation: Use a soft-bristle brush or a non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Gently scrub the soap scum. Focus on areas with heavier buildup. Avoid aggressive scrubbing. Let the cleaner do the work.
  4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the entire area with clean, warm water. Use plenty of water to ensure all soap scum and cleaner residue are removed.
  5. Dry completely: Use clean, dry microfiber cloths to wipe down and dry the travertine surfaces. This prevents new water spots and ensures the stone is not left wet.

For more information specific to general shower tile, you can refer to how to clean soap scum from shower tile.

Eliminating Hard Water Stains

Hard water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. When water evaporates, these minerals are left behind. They form white, chalky spots or streaks.

  1. Warm water and mild abrasive: For light hard water spots, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes. Gently rub with a soft cloth. Baking soda is a very mild abrasive.
  2. Specialized poultice: For deeper hard water stains, a poultice might be necessary. A poultice is a paste made from an absorbent material (like diatomaceous earth or kaolin clay) mixed with a chemical. For hard water, a neutral pH descaler formulated for natural stone can be mixed into the poultice. Apply the paste about a quarter-inch thick over the stain. Cover it with plastic wrap. Tape the edges to seal it. Let it sit for several hours or overnight. The poultice draws the stain out of the stone.
  3. Remove and rinse: Once dry, scrape off the poultice with a plastic scraper. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
  4. Dry well: Dry the travertine completely with a microfiber cloth.

Always test any new cleaning method or product in an inconspicuous area first. This ensures it does not damage your specific travertine tile. Consistent daily drying is the best defense against both soap scum and hard water. It saves you from these tougher cleaning tasks. Dealing with these issues promptly helps maintain the beauty of your travertine shower.

Removing Mold and Mildew Safely from Travertine

Mold and mildew thrive in damp, warm environments. A shower is their ideal home. These fungi appear as black, green, or pinkish stains. They not only look unpleasant but also pose health risks. Removing them from porous travertine requires a gentle, yet effective approach. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the stone. My preferred method uses safer alternatives.

Identifying Mold vs. Mildew

  • Mildew: Usually appears as a flat, powdery growth. It can be white, gray, or yellowish. Mildew often stays on the surface.
  • Mold: Appears fuzzy or slimy. It can be black, green, blue, or red. Mold often grows deeper into porous surfaces like grout lines.

Both require attention, but mold might need a bit more effort.

Safe Mold and Mildew Removal Steps

  1. Improve ventilation: Before you start cleaning, ensure good airflow in your bathroom. Open a window or turn on the exhaust fan. This helps dry the area. It also removes airborne spores.
  2. Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle. Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant. It breaks down mold and mildew without damaging travertine. It is much safer than bleach for natural stone. For tougher mold, you can use a slightly stronger concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Always test a small area first.
  3. Apply to affected areas: Spray the hydrogen peroxide solution directly onto the mold or mildew spots. Ensure the area is thoroughly saturated.
  4. Allow dwell time: Let the solution sit for 15-30 minutes. For severe mold, you can let it sit for up to an hour. The peroxide needs time to penetrate and kill the fungi. Do not let the solution dry on the surface. Re-mist if necessary.
  5. Gently scrub: Use a soft-bristle brush or a soft sponge. Gently scrub the affected areas. Mold and mildew should start to lift away. For deep grout stains, the soft brush will be more effective.
  6. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the entire area with clean, warm water. Make sure all hydrogen peroxide residue is washed away.
  7. Dry completely: Use clean microfiber cloths to dry all travertine surfaces completely. Leaving moisture promotes new growth.

Preventing Future Growth

Prevention is key to avoiding mold and mildew.

  • Ventilate: Always use an exhaust fan or open a window during and after showering. Run the fan for at least 30 minutes after your shower.
  • Wipe down: After each shower, squeegee water from walls and dry surfaces with a microfiber cloth. This removes moisture before mold can grow.
  • Keep it clean: Regular routine cleaning prevents organic matter buildup. This deprives mold and mildew of a food source.
  • Check for leaks: Repair any leaks promptly. Excess moisture from leaks encourages fungal growth.

By following these steps, you can safely remove mold and mildew. You can also significantly reduce their chances of returning. This keeps your travertine shower healthy and beautiful. For broader advice on maintaining a clean bathroom, you might find tips on how to keep bathroom clean useful.

Grout Cleaning and Sealing Your Travertine Shower

The grout lines in a travertine shower are just as important as the tiles themselves. Grout is typically porous. It easily absorbs dirt, soap scum, and moisture. This makes it a prime spot for mold and mildew. Proper grout cleaning and regular sealing are vital. They protect both the grout and the surrounding travertine.

Cleaning Travertine Grout

Grout cleaning requires a bit more focus.

  1. Prepare a dedicated grout cleaner: Use a pH-neutral grout cleaner designed for natural stone. Many general grout cleaners are too acidic for travertine. Mix according to product instructions.
  2. Apply to grout lines: Apply the cleaner directly onto the grout lines. You can use a small brush or a spray bottle with a targeted nozzle.
  3. Allow dwell time: Let the cleaner sit for 5-10 minutes. This allows it to penetrate and loosen the grime.
  4. Scrub thoroughly: Use a soft-bristle grout brush. Scrub along the grout lines. Focus on discolored or stained areas. The bristles help dislodge embedded dirt.
  5. Rinse well: Rinse the entire area with clean, warm water. Ensure all cleaner residue is removed from both grout and tile.
  6. Dry completely: Use microfiber cloths to dry the grout and tiles.

For more specific guidance on natural stone grout, refer to how to clean natural stone tile and grout.

Why Sealing is Crucial

Sealing travertine tile and grout is not optional. It is essential. Travertine is naturally porous. Without a sealant, it readily absorbs water, oils, and stains. A high-quality penetrating sealer works by soaking into the stone and grout. It creates a barrier that repels liquids. This makes the surface much less absorbent.

How Often to Seal Your Travertine Shower

The frequency of sealing depends on several factors:

  • Traffic and usage: A shower gets daily use, so it needs more frequent sealing than a countertop.
  • Type of sealer: Some sealers last longer than others.
  • Cleaning frequency: Harsh cleaners can degrade a sealant faster (another reason to stick to pH-neutral).

As a general rule, a travertine shower should be sealed every 1-2 years. You can perform a simple water test to check if your sealant is still effective:

  • Sprinkle a few drops of water on the tile and grout.
  • If the water beads up on the surface, the sealer is still working.
  • If the water soaks into the stone and darkens it, it is time to re-seal.

Steps for Sealing Travertine

  1. Clean thoroughly: Ensure the shower is completely clean and dry before sealing. Any dirt or moisture will be sealed in.
  2. Choose a quality sealer: Select a penetrating sealer specifically designed for natural stone. Avoid topical sealers that can leave a film.
  3. Apply according to instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly. Most sealers are applied with a clean cloth, sponge, or low-pressure sprayer. Apply evenly.
  4. Wipe off excess: After the recommended dwell time (usually 5-15 minutes), wipe off any excess sealer from the surface. Do not let it dry on the surface.
  5. Cure time: Allow the sealer to cure for the recommended period. This can be 24-72 hours. Avoid using the shower during this time.

Sealing provides a protective layer. It makes your travertine easier to clean. It also protects it from common shower issues. This step preserves the beauty and integrity of your how to clean travertine shower.

Maintaining Your Travertine Shower’s Luster

Keeping your travertine shower looking its best is an ongoing process. Beyond routine cleaning and sealing, long-term maintenance practices are important. These practices ensure the stone retains its natural luster and beauty for decades. My goal is always to protect my investment and avoid future problems.

Preventative Measures are Key

  • Install a water softener: If you have hard water, a water softener can significantly reduce mineral deposits. This makes daily cleaning much easier. It also protects your stone from potential etching.
  • Use liquid soaps: Bar soaps contain fats and talc. These ingredients contribute heavily to soap scum buildup. Switching to liquid body washes or shower gels can minimize this issue.
  • Ventilation: Always run your exhaust fan during and after showering. Leave bathroom doors open to allow air circulation. Good ventilation reduces humidity. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Regular inspections: Periodically inspect your grout lines and caulk. Look for any cracks or deterioration. Water can seep through these areas. This leads to moisture damage and mold behind the tiles. Address these issues promptly.

Addressing Minor Issues Promptly

Small problems can become big ones if ignored.

  • Spot clean: If you notice a drip or a small stain, clean it immediately. Fresh stains are always easier to remove than old, set-in ones.
  • Re-caulk as needed: If caulk around the shower pan or corners shows signs of wear, remove the old caulk and apply new. This creates a watertight seal. This protects the structure behind your travertine.

Professional Cleaning and Restoration

Even with diligent home care, a travertine shower may benefit from professional attention every few years.

  • Deep cleaning: Professionals have specialized equipment and stronger, yet safe, cleaning solutions. They can remove deeply embedded dirt and stains that home methods cannot touch.
  • Honing and Polishing: If your travertine has become dull or etched, professionals can hone (lightly abrade) the surface. This removes minor imperfections. They can then polish it to restore its original shine. This is a restoration service. It should only be done by experienced stone care specialists.
  • Expert sealing: Professionals often use commercial-grade sealers. These offer longer-lasting protection. They also apply them with precision for optimal results.

Regular professional deep cleaning, perhaps every 3-5 years, complements your home maintenance. It keeps your travertine looking exceptional. Remember that professional help is always available for your how to clean stone. Investing in consistent care ensures your travertine shower remains a beautiful highlight in your home.

Restoring Travertine: Dealing with Etching and Discoloration

Even with the best care, travertine can sometimes suffer from etching or discoloration. These issues usually arise from exposure to acidic substances or improper cleaning. Etching appears as dull spots or rough patches. Discoloration can range from mineral stains to overall darkening. Addressing these problems needs a careful approach. My experience shows that understanding the cause helps choose the right solution.

Understanding Etching

Etching happens when an acidic substance reacts with the calcium carbonate in travertine. This chemical reaction dissolves the stone’s surface. It creates dull, lighter spots that look like water stains but are actually permanent damage. Common culprits include:

  • Vinegar or lemon juice
  • Acidic bathroom cleaners
  • Some types of soap or shampoo that splash and dry
  • Urine (if left on the stone)

Dealing with Etching:

  • Minor Etching: For very light etching, you might be able to improve the appearance. Use a travertine polishing compound or a marble polishing powder. These products contain fine abrasives. They work to gently remove a micro-layer of the stone. Follow the product instructions carefully. Apply with a soft cloth and buff the area. This can help restore some of the shine.
  • Severe Etching: Deep or widespread etching often requires professional help. Stone restoration specialists can re-hone or re-polish the travertine. This involves grinding down the surface slightly to remove the damaged layer. Then, they polish it to the desired finish. This is a skilled process and should not be attempted by a DIYer.

Addressing Discoloration

Discoloration in travertine showers can stem from various sources.

  • Hard Water Stains: These appear as white, chalky buildup. We discussed these earlier. They are mineral deposits.
  • Iron Stains: These appear as orange or rust-colored spots. They are often from metal fixtures or rusty water.
  • Mold/Mildew Stains: As discussed, these cause black, green, or pinkish discoloration.
  • Organic Stains: From leaves, dirt, or even some shampoos, these can leave brownish or yellowish marks.
  • Oil Stains: From body oils or certain soaps, these can leave dark, greasy-looking spots.

Dealing with Discoloration:

  • Targeted Poultices: For most discoloration that has soaked into the stone, a poultice is the most effective solution. A poultice is a paste made from an absorbent material (like diatomaceous earth or kaolin clay) mixed with a specific chemical agent.
    • For Iron Stains: Use a poultice mixed with a rust remover designed for natural stone. Do NOT use general rust removers, which can be acidic.
    • For Organic Stains: Use a poultice mixed with a mild oxidizer, like diluted hydrogen peroxide.
    • For Oil/Grease Stains: Use a poultice mixed with a solvent (like acetone or mineral spirits).
  • Application: Apply the poultice about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick over the stain. Cover it with plastic wrap. Tape the edges to seal it. Let it sit for 24-48 hours. As the poultice dries, it draws the stain out of the stone.
  • Removal and Rinse: Once the poultice is completely dry, carefully scrape it off with a plastic scraper. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. Dry the stone completely. Multiple applications may be needed for stubborn stains.

Prevention is always better than cure. Immediately wipe up any spills, especially acidic ones. Ensure good ventilation to prevent moisture-related discoloration. Regular sealing also helps prevent stains from penetrating the stone. For general tips on how to clean other types of tile, you might find useful resources like how to clean shower tile. If you face persistent issues, consulting a professional stone restorer is the wisest decision. They have the expertise and tools to restore your travertine.

Deep Cleaning Your Travertine Shower Annually

While routine cleaning keeps your travertine shower looking good day-to-day, an annual deep clean is beneficial. This allows you to tackle any accumulated grime, residue, or minor issues that weekly cleaning might miss. A deep clean helps reset the shower’s condition and prepares it for effective re-sealing if needed. My annual deep clean makes a noticeable difference.

Preparing for a Deep Clean

Before you begin, gather all your supplies:

  • pH-neutral stone cleaner (or alkaline cleaner for tough soap scum)
  • Soft-bristle brush (for grout and textured areas)
  • Soft sponges and microfiber cloths
  • Spray bottle
  • Clean water source (bucket or shower head)
  • Optional: Steamer for tough areas (use carefully)
  • Protective gloves and eyewear

Ensure the shower is empty of all bottles and accessories. This gives you full access to all surfaces.

Steps for an Annual Deep Clean

  1. Initial Rinse and Pre-Soak: Start by rinsing the entire shower with warm water. This wets the surfaces and helps loosen loose dirt. For areas with visible buildup, you can pre-spray with your pH-neutral cleaner. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Apply Deep Cleaner: Spray a generous amount of your chosen pH-neutral stone cleaner over all travertine tile and grout surfaces. Work in sections if your shower is large, to prevent the cleaner from drying. For areas with heavy soap scum, use a slightly more concentrated solution or an alkaline stone soap.
  3. Thorough Scrubbing:
    • Tiles: Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Gently scrub the travertine tiles in circular motions. Pay attention to corners, ledges, and areas where water or soap tends to collect.
    • Grout Lines: Use a soft-bristle grout brush. Apply gentle pressure and scrub along the grout lines. The bristles help dislodge embedded dirt and grime.
    • Trouble Spots: For stubborn hard water spots or minor discoloration, re-apply cleaner. Let it sit for a longer dwell time (15-20 minutes). Then, gently scrub again. For specific stains, you might consider the poultice methods discussed earlier.
  4. Steam Cleaning (Optional, with caution): A handheld steamer can be effective for sanitizing and loosening stubborn dirt in grout lines or textured areas.
    • Hold the steamer nozzle close to the surface.
    • Move slowly, allowing the steam to work.
    • Immediately wipe the area with a microfiber cloth to remove loosened dirt and moisture.
    • Caution: Do not hold steam in one spot for too long on travertine. Excessive heat can potentially affect the stone or sealer. Test in a hidden area first.
  5. Rinse and Dry Completely: This is the most crucial step. Rinse all surfaces thoroughly with clean, warm water. Ensure no cleaning product residue remains. Use a squeegee on flat surfaces. Then, use clean, dry microfiber cloths to meticulously dry all travertine tile and grout. Any remaining moisture can lead to new water spots or mold.
  6. Inspect and Re-Seal if Needed: After the shower is completely dry (allow 24 hours if possible), perform the water test. If water soaks in, it is time to re-seal your travertine. Refer to the sealing steps in the previous section.

An annual deep clean rejuvenates your travertine shower. It removes built-up grime. This keeps it looking fresh and extends the life of your stone. It also helps you assess the condition of your sealer and address any developing issues. Consistent maintenance combined with periodic deep cleaning ensures your travertine remains a stunning feature in your home. For general deep cleaning advice on floors, you might find tips on how to deep clean tile floors useful.

Eco-Friendly and Natural Cleaning Options for Travertine

Many people prefer using natural, eco-friendly cleaning options in their homes. While some common “natural” cleaners like vinegar are a definite no-go for travertine due to their acidity, other gentle alternatives exist. My family often opts for natural solutions where safe and effective. This section focuses on safe, natural methods to clean your travertine shower.

Safe Natural Cleaners

  • Baking Soda Paste: Baking soda is mildly abrasive and a natural deodorizer.
    • For light stains or general scrubbing: Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply it to affected areas. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or brush. Rinse thoroughly. This is effective for light soap scum.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: We discussed this for mold and mildew. It’s also great for general sanitizing and lightening light stains.
    • For general cleaning or light stains: Mix equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle. Spray on surfaces. Let sit for 5-10 minutes. Gently scrub. Rinse well.
  • Mild Castile Soap: This is a true soap, unlike many modern detergents. It is very gentle and biodegradable.
    • For daily/weekly cleaning: Dilute a few drops of liquid castile soap in warm water. Use this solution to wipe down surfaces. Rinse completely.

Combining Natural Power

You can combine these for

  • travertine cleaning
  • shower cleaning
  • natural stone care
  • bathroom maintenance
  • tile care
  • soap scum removal
  • hard water stains
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Todd Martin profile picture

Todd Martin

Senior Writer

With over 15 years of experience in home renovation and design, I started HEG to share what I’ve learned with homeowners who want to create spaces that are both beautiful and functional. I’ve always believed in a hands-on approach, and over the years, I’ve picked up practical solutions that actually work. Through HEG, I aim to make home improvement more approachable, sharing real tips that help you create a home you truly love.

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