Shower cleaning tends to be one of the most dreaded household chores. Between scrubbing grout, battling soap scum on glass doors, and wiping down tiles, the task is often time-consuming and physically demanding. To make matters worse, showers seem to attract dirt and buildup quickly, especially in homes with multiple people using them daily.
A recent discussion on Reddit, however, has sparked excitement among homeowners with a surprisingly simple tip. The hack uses one everyday kitchen staple and is being described as a true “game changer” for anyone tired of endless scrubbing.
The Simple Trick That Saves Time
A user on r/CleaningTips posed the question: what are the best “lazy cleaning hacks” for the home? That’s when one response caught everyone’s attention.
Reddit user @BBrea101 revealed a clever strategy:
1. Keep dish soap in the shower.
2. On days dedicated to deep conditioning hair, wash the shower walls with dish soap.
3. Rinse the walls with the showerhead before finishing.
4. Use a squeegee afterward to prevent water marks and soap scum buildup.
According to the user, this routine not only leaves the shower sparkling but also maintains silky hair since the task is completed while waiting for conditioner to set. The key tool suggested for this hack? A soap brush scrubber pre-filled with dishwashing liquid.
Why Dish Soap Works So Well
Freepik | Dish soap is popular for cleaning showers as it safely breaks down grease and tough soap scum.
Dishwashing liquid is specifically designed to break down grease and tough residues, making it effective against stubborn soap scum. Unlike harsher cleaners, it’s gentle enough for regular use, which is why many homeowners have adopted this method.
People often highlight its advantages, such as the convenience of quick cleaning during a shower, less buildup on tiles, glass, and tubs, fewer heavy scrubbing sessions in the long run, and the added benefit of being an affordable solution with a product that’s already sitting in the kitchen.
What Other Reddit Users Say
The thread quickly filled with positive reactions from users impressed with the idea. Comments poured in, highlighting how relatable and practical the hack felt.
One user wrote: “This is genius and I am incorporating this into my life immediately.”
Another suggested a variation: “I keep a magic eraser in the shower for the same reason. If it’s going to be a longer shower, I might as well wash it down too.”
Some also admitted the method encouraged more frequent cleaning. As one user put it: “I do this too and actually do clean my shower MUCH more frequently because of it.”
TikTok Joins In
The hack didn’t stay contained to Reddit. TikTok users quickly jumped on the trend, creating videos demonstrating how dish soap transformed their cleaning routines. While many embraced the idea, others admitted they preferred to leave showers as a time of relaxation.
One TikTok user wrote: “I wish I could, but showers are my time to just… enjoy the water. Cleaning doesn’t fit that.”
Another added humorously: “I tried this but I’m literally too lazy.”
Despite some reluctance, the majority of comments show appreciation for such an easy-to-implement cleaning shortcut.
Expert Cleaning Advice
Freepik | A vinegar solution once a week is essential for the thorough disinfecting.
While dish soap certainly helps with regular maintenance, experts point out that it doesn’t fully replace deep cleaning. The Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab recommends:
Squeegeeing glass shower doors daily to prevent streaks and buildup
Using a vinegar solution once a week for thorough disinfecting and deeper cleaning of surfaces
This balanced approach keeps the shower both visually clean and hygienic.
Should You Try the Dish Soap Hack?
For those who spend time in the shower applying deep conditioners or hair masks, this hack makes perfect sense. Instead of standing idly by, a few quick swipes with a dish soap brush can leave the shower fresher and reduce future scrubbing sessions.
However, a complete deep clean will still require additional effort, especially for grout and hidden corners. Still, countless Reddit and TikTok users swear by this trick for making upkeep less of a chore.