Here we discuss the different materials often used for bathroom products including showers, taps and bathroom accessories. We will go through each material and its key features, advantages and how to keep each one clean.
Contents:
ABS Plastic
Many of our shower kits and handsets are made from ABS plastic. This material is extremely durable and sturdy and is typically used for things like sockets, packaging, and even LEGO. Big brands such as Britton Bathrooms have products that are made from ABS plastic - it's a reliable substance that withstands heavy use and high levels of heat, making it a great for shower kits. A key advantage of ABS plastic is that it will not rust or gather mould & mildew from damp bathroom conditions.
It’s important to note that just because some of our products are manufactured from ABS, it doesn’t take away from the sleek and stylish finish of the product, and many ABS shower kits are crafted from a combination of ABS, brass and stainless steel.
To clean ABS plastic, a regular wash of soap and water is enough to freshen up your product . However, if your shower has a a build up of soap scum and residue, a solution of white vinegar, water and dish soap will cut through the grime easily.
Brass
Brass has a bright, gold-looking appearance and is often used for showers, taps and bathroom accessories. Brass is made from a combination of copper and zinc and is known for its hardness and workability. The material itself will not rust as it doesn’t contain iron, however it can react with oxygen which can give it a green patina from the copper oxidisation. This patina can easily be removed by cleaning with natural substances such as baking soda, lemon juice and vinegar as this will help to neutralise the product.
Brushed brass is brass that has been treated to give it a more matt look compared to traditional brass. It’s durable and has a modern elegant finish that is easy to maintain. Take a look at how to clean brushed brass taps and showers in our insightful guide.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, and is a durable and affordable metal that’s used for a wide variety of purposes. It’s a great material to use for showers, taps and kitchen sinks along with accessories such as shower caddies as it does not rust. Stainless steel contains chromium which resists oxidisation, making it highly resistant to corrosion.
The best way to clean stainless steel is to use a solution of warm water, mild soap and a soft cloth to wipe around the material. White vinegar, lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda can also be used sparingly to remove marks and keep the material shiny. Overall, this is a great material to go for as it doesn’t require too much up-keep.
PVC
A few of our products are manufactured with PVC, which is a tough plastic that’s often used in building and construction and electronics. It’s a versatile and pliable material that is clear, so can be colour matched to any colour required.
This affordable material is often used in conjunction with other materials such as ABS to give it more durability, and it is an ideal material to use in bathrooms due to its water resistance.
We hope this guide has given a little more insight into the different types of materials commonly used for bathroom products. To keep your shower looking as fresh as possible, take a look at our guide for how to clean shower glass.
