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 residue, conditioner, hair, body grime and foam that does not fully wash away all collect in the shower drain. Bicarbonate of soda helps lift this build-up, cutting 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 mildly “exfoliating” effect, helping to loosen body oils, shampoo, conditioner and soap deposits, as well as the film that can make the floor look 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 pipe.

It is not a replacement for a strong disinfectant, but it works very well for routine upkeep. It can leave the shower enclosure looking cleaner, the floor shinier and the room feeling fresher. In many bathrooms, regular use alone produces a noticeable difference, particularly in damp areas that mark easily.

How should you apply bicarbonate of soda around the shower drain?

For this method to work properly, the application technique matters more than the amount used. Usually, a thin ring around the drain cover is enough to treat the key area, preventing waste and excess powder from building up on the shower floor.

Follow this straightforward routine to add it to your cleaning schedule with no 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 drain cover, making sure the whole area is covered.
• Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a brush or sponge and rinse.

How long should bicarbonate of soda stay in the drain, and how can you boost its effect?

Leaving the bicarbonate of soda in place for 15 to 30 minutes is generally enough to soften grime, lessen odours and make rinsing easier. While it works, you can clean other parts of the bathroom, then return to finish the shower enclosure by rinsing thoroughly until no powder remains.

If there is a strong smell or 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. The mixture fizzes, shifts more residue and reaches areas that a brush cannot access as effectively. However, sensitive surfaces, including some natural stones, require you to check the manufacturer’s guidance before using vinegar regularly.

How often should you use bicarbonate of soda 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 already very helpful in preventing dirt and odours from building up, especially in frequently used bathrooms.

In homes with a large family or particularly heavy use, it is worth carrying out a more thorough clean every 15 days or once a month, including longer scrubbing and, when 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 shower products, helps preserve the floor, prevent dark marks and maintain a bathroom that feels consistently fresher and better cared for.