How to Use Bicarbonate of Soda Around the Shower Drain

Sprinkling bicarbonate of soda around the shower drain has become a reliable little trick for anyone who wants a fresh-smelling bathroom that is easy to clean, without much effort or expense. Soap, conditioner, hair, body grime and foam that does not fully wash away all collect in the shower drain, and bicarbonate of soda helps loosen this built-up layer, reducing unpleasant odours and making everyday cleaning easier.

Why does using bicarbonate of soda around the shower drain help with cleaning?

Bicarbonate of soda has a mild “exfoliating” action, helping to lift away body oils, shampoo, conditioner and soap residue, as well as the film that can leave the floor looking dull. It also neutralises odours and reaches the inner edge of the drain, helping to reduce the odd smell that can sometimes rise from the pipework.

It is not a replacement for a powerful disinfectant, but it works very well for regular upkeep, giving the shower enclosure a cleaner appearance, making the floor look brighter and leaving the room feeling fresher. In many bathrooms, regular use alone produces a visible difference, especially in damp areas that mark easily.

How should bicarbonate of soda be applied around the shower drain correctly?

For this trick to work properly, the method matters more than the amount used. Generally, a thin ring around the drain cover is enough to treat the key area, preventing waste and avoiding a build-up of powder on the shower floor.

Follow these straightforward steps to add it to your cleaning routine without any fuss:

• Leave the floor slightly damp rather than soaking wet, so the bicarbonate of soda does not dissolve too quickly.
• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda around the entire edge of the shower drain, as though seasoning food.
• Create a circle 5 to 10 cm wide around the cover, ensuring the whole area is well covered.
• Leave it to work for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a brush or sponge and rinse.

How long should bicarbonate of soda be left in the shower drain, and how can its effect be boosted?

Leaving the bicarbonate of soda to work for between 15 and 30 minutes is usually enough to soften dirt, lessen odours and make rinsing easier. During that time, you can clean other parts of the bathroom, then return to finish the shower enclosure by rinsing thoroughly until no powder remains.

If the smell is strong or there is a heavy build-up, you can intensify the treatment by pouring a little white vinegar over the bicarbonate of soda and leaving it for around 10 minutes. This combination fizzes, dislodges more residue and reaches areas a brush cannot access as easily. However, delicate surfaces, including some natural stones, require you to check the manufacturer’s guidance before using vinegar regularly.

How often should bicarbonate of soda be used in the shower drain for good results?

Consistency is the key to keeping the shower enclosure clean, free from bad smells and looking well maintained. In many homes, applying bicarbonate of soda around the shower drain once a week is enough to help prevent grime and odours from building up, particularly in frequently used bathrooms.

In homes with a large family or heavy use, it is worth carrying out a more thorough clean every 15 days or once a month, including longer scrubbing and, if needed, an extra treatment with vinegar. Combining this habit with simple measures, such as removing hair from the drain after showering and avoiding excessive use of very oily products in the shower, helps preserve the floor, prevent dark marks and keep the bathroom feeling fresher and better cared for.