This is another in our series of blog posts dedicated to cleaning and caring for your bathroom and the materials typically involved. Today we’ll learn how to clean washbasins without damaging their surfaces, so they’re always like new.

As we mentioned in the post regarding bathtub maintenance, maintaining a daily cleaning routine will make periodic cleaning easier and quicker.

Cleaning the washbasin: how do washbasins differ in terms of cleaning? 

Firstly, let’s identify the broad categories of washbasins:

• Sit-on, built-in or semi built-in: the edge or joint between the top and washbasin requires special attention;
• Integrated washbasin: consists of one continuous slab (i.e. made of just one material).

In the former case, top and washbasin may be in two different materials, so our advice is to check that you can treat both in the same way. As mentioned before, joints require extra care: our tip is to use a soft toothbrush every now and again to remove limescale deposit and soiled or soapy residue from those parts awkward to reach with a sponge.

Integrated washbasins are very easy to clean because there is no gap between the top and basin. Obviously, also here you need to read the maintenance instructions for the type of material (given in the instructions booklet included in the packing) to make sure you choose the right detergent.  

Here are our instructions for cleaning resin tops.

Here how to care for tops in natural materials.

Last but not least, freestanding washbasins. These are very easy to clean, being a single block, but a good tip is to periodically rinse and dry the entire washbasin surface, including the out-of-sight rear. 

How to clean washbasins? It all depends on the material! 

And so we come to the question of materials. Because we have already dealt thoroughly with the subject on our blog, here we will give cleaning instructions for each product, summarising all the information relating to washbasins in one place.

Ceramic washbasins: care and maintenance

Ceramic is one of the most practical and easiest to clean materials. It can be cleaned with any common detergent, including harsh ones, and requires little care to look as good as new. 

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Limescale deposits > use citric acid powder diluted in water (see the proportions on the product packaging), then dry;
• Deep cleaning and surface renovation(e.g. to remove cosmetics and soap residue) > use a sponge to wipe the surface with a creamy detergent (e.g. Jif Cream) and then rinse thoroughly

Mineralsolid washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralsolid is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with matt gelcoat (epoxy or polyester resin finish that makes surfaces water repellent, adding attractive aesthetics or colour).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface renovation > apply a creamy detergent (for example Cif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse thoroughly

Mineralux washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralux is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with glossy gelcoat (the only difference from Mineralsolid).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > using a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, wipe the surface with a sponge, leave to stand for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly
• Superficial scratches and stains: use a polishing compound

Marble washbasins: care and maintenance

Marble is a natural material that is particularly elegant and always in vogue. It boasts numerous colours and patterns, and is ideal for the bathroom. Nevertheless, since it’s natural, it needs some extra care.

• Daily cleaning and care: marble is a naturally porous material that tends to absorb liquids, so it is fundamental that any spill is wiped off immediately to prevent permanent stains;
• Hard water stains: Being a calcareous stone, marble must never be cleaned with common descaling detergents, which – like all acid substances – would corrode the surface irreparably;
• Mild solutions: marble tops can be cleaned daily with Marseille soap or baking soda (or other mild, neutral soaps) diluted in water. Rub any stain with a microfibre or woollen cloth, rinse well and wipe dry immediately to prevent marks and stains;
• Professional detergents and tools for more thorough cleaning: cleaning products specifically designed for marble are on sale in shops and supermarkets. They are excellent for cleaning and protecting your marble top and preserving its natural shine;
• Superficial scratches and stains: you can restore your marble top to its original condition with the help of special polishing pads (on sale in shops). Alternatively, you can refer to a specialised stonemason.

Cristalplant washbasins: care and maintenance

Cristalplant® is a solid surface made of pure aluminium trihydrate minerals bound with Biobased® vegetal resins (corn/maize), which gives a soft touch surface with a matt stone effect. It is highly resistant, also to yellowing, and is recyclable, hygienic and repairable.  

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface renovation > apply a creamy detergent (for example Cif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse thoroughly
• Superficial scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert)

Corian and Aquatek washbasins: care and maintenance

Aquatek and Corian are both manufactured with the same raw materials, particularly extremely strong acrylic resins that are easy to clean and can be repaired when damaged. Below are instructions for keeping them in perfect condition:

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > using a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, wipe the surface with a sponge, leave to stand for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly
• Superficial scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert)

How to clean washbasins: don’t forget the plughole and drain 

One of the most neglected parts of the washbasin is the joint between the bowl material and the metal on the plughole. Make sure you don’t forget to clean the under part of the drain plug regularly (now often click-clack or free drain, opened by simply clicking or twisting) to remove dirt, limescale, hair, cosmetics and soap residue.

There are special detergents available for occasional cleaning of drains to free them of any blockages and keep them smelling fresh and clean.

Did you already know all this? If you have any doubts, consult one of our retailers.

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The time has come: your new bathroom is complete, you’ve finally moved into your new home and are beginning to savour your new environment. It’s around this time that you’ll start realising how good or bad your décor choices were, and have to start caring for your furniture and sanitary ware. It all looks very easy when everything is new and sparkling clean, doesn’t it?

Well, losing that initial momentum is just as easy as gradually neglecting to clean and maintain your bathroom surfaces.
Yet, it is precisely now that you should get into good habits: if you maintain them, your bathroom will remain effortlessly beautiful for a long time. Today’s blog is about bathtubs.

Some people believe that keeping the bathtub clean is complicated, as well as time consuming and tedious. They couldn’t be more wrong! Let’s find out together how to take care of a modern bathtub.

Before discussing materials, let us give you a general piece of advice if you have opted for a free-standing or a back-to-wall bathtub. In the first case, make sure to leave enough clearance around the bathtub so you can comfortably reach the space behind it, otherwise dust and grime will build up and eventually become very hard to clean. In contrast, a back-to-wall bathtub is easier to clean, but you need to pay extra attention to keep the strip of silicone sealant clean. Speaking of different bathtub models, you might be interested in reading our article on how to choose the bathtub.

Caring for materials: how to clean the bathtub

The most important thing to keep in mind is that the bathtub should be rinsed thoroughly after every use, so as to wash off any dirt and soap scum, and any oil-based residues or additives left by the bath products that could discolour it.
A sponge or soft brush can be used to aid the action of the water jets. This is already a good habit to prevent soap build-up.

To properly clean your bathtub, instead, you should use detergents suitable for its material.
On that note… what material is your bathtub made of?

If you’ve just bought it, you’ll likely remember what your bathtub is made of, although it’s not that uncommon if it’s slipped your mind, given how many options there are. Not to worry: always keep the maintenance booklets included in the packing. Over the years they will help you remember important information (company, product name, material, customer service contacts, and cleaning tips).

What about coloured bathtubs? Is there any difference? Not at all, so don’t worry: the fact that the exterior may have a colour does not affect cleaning procedures, nor does it make the bathtub more difficult to clean. The only precaution is to avoid using anything abrasive that may scratch the tub’s exterior coating. But let’s now see our recommendations for each type of material.

Aquatek and light Aquatek bathtubs

Very similar to Corian, Aquatek is almost entirely made of acrylic resins. It is highly resistant and its surface can be repaired if damaged. Here’s how you should clean your Aquatek bathtub:

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > use a sponge to spread a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach over the entire surface, leave to stand for a few minutes (then rinse thoroughly);
• Superficial scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided;
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert).

Mineralsolid bathtubs

Mineralsolid is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with matt gelcoat (epoxy or polyester resin finish that makes surfaces impermeable, adding attractive aesthetics or colour).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > apply a creamy detergent (for example Jif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse thoroughly.

Mineralux bathtubs

Mineralux is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with glossy gelcoat (the only difference from Mineralsolid).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > use a sponge to spread a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach over the entire surface, leave to stand for a few minutes (then rinse thoroughly);
• Superficial stains and scratches: use a polishing compound.

Cristalplant bathtubs

Cristalplant® is a Solid Surface made of pure aluminium trihydrate minerals bound with Biobased® vegetal resins (obtained from corn/maize). It has a natural stone-like appearance and soft-touch finish. It is highly resistant to yellowing, and is recyclable, hygienic and repairable.

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Deep cleaning and surface brightening > apply a creamy detergent (for example Jif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse thoroughly;
• Superficial scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided;
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert).

Mineralmarmo bathtubs

Mineralmarmo contains 75% natural minerals such as calcium carbonate and aluminium trihydrates, and 25% polyester resin, coated with gelcoat and therefore highly resistant to water and foreign agents.

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water;
• Deep cleaning, superficial scratch repair and surface brightening > request the renovation kit.

Cleaning the bathtub stopper and drain filter

Cleaning the drain filter regularly to remove any clogged hair and other debris before they go down the drain can definitely save you some headaches later.
To do this, simply lift the bathtub stopper, pull out the hair or debris and rinse the drain filter.

We recommend that you periodically give both the bathtub stopper and the drain filter a deep clean using a common household detergent.

Cleaning the whirlpool tub

If the bathtub has a whirlpool system, it should also be sanitized.
If your bathtub’s whirlpool system uses water jets, it may feature an automatic cleaning cycle, which you can simply start after you have filled the bathtub with clean water and a special detergent that is usually provided by the manufacturer (or purchased separately).
If there is no such automatic cleaning cycle, you can simply restart the whirlpool function and add a specific bathtub cleaning product to the clean water.

Finally, whirlpool bathtubs that use air jets rather than water jets generally feature a short cleaning cycle that blows air and any residual water out of the nozzles to clean the internal pipes.

Do you have an old or outdated bathtub and would like to replace it with a new, designer one?
Read our post to find out how.
As with any other part of the bathroom, a regular cleaning routine can help you avoid having to resort to more aggressive methods to get rid of more stubborn dirt, saving you precious time in the long run.

Were you familiar with these tips for looking after your new bathtub? If you need help understanding what material your tub is made of and how to look after it properly, check the bathtub section of the Disenia website, contact one of our retailers or get in touch with our after-sales service . An remember: our blog contains a whole section dedicated to maintenance tips for our products.

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Today we deal with the hot issue of cleaning and care in the bathroom: let’s find out how to take care of the shower and all its parts.

First of all we will identify all the parts subjected to wear, grime, stains and limescale: the shower tray and drain, tiles, taps and fittings, shower enclosure frames, glass panels, washers and sliding or opening mechanisms, and then deal with them one by one.

Cleaning the shower enclosure: it’s not just the glass panels that require attention

Cleaning a shower enclosure means cleaning all its parts. There are special detergents suitable for the metal parts and glass panels of the enclosure and for the bathroom in general: check that they do not produce too much foam and are not aggressive on surfaces.

• Frames: may be aluminium (mostly) or stainless steel. When buying a detergent, always read the label to make sure it is compatible with these materials. In the same way, check whether the shower enclosure instructions give any special indications regarding the frames, particularly if they are painted, chromed or anodised. When you have identified the right product for the material, follow the instructions on the label and rinse carefully when you have finished. Finally, dry well with a cotton or microfiber cloth.

All the images in this article show details of our practical new shower enclosure. Minimal and functional: discover Brave

• Gaskets: these are plastic profiles that seal the enclosure or stop drips under the doors. Removable ones can be detached from the glass periodically for more thorough cleaning to avoid yellowing and keep them as soft as possible. Simply clean with soap and water: according to conditions, use mild soap, delicate bleach, a bathroom detergent or a descaler, taking care to rinse and dry well. If the profiles harden over time, contact one of our dealers or Disenia after-sales service to replace them.

• The components of the model in question (handles, hinges, sliding and opening mechanisms): when you have found out which material is involved, dedicate a periodical cleaning session to these elements, using a soft brush to get to those places awkward to reach. Foreign bodies, dust and hair should be removed from the tracks (the profiles in which the panel runners glide or rollers slide) to ensure they can move freely.

• Now for a very common problem, the best way to clean the glass parts of your shower. Doors on modern shower enclosures are in toughened glass, a material that’s simple to clean and for which there is a vast range of products on the market. So cleaning a shower enclosure is easier than you think, especially if the glass has been treated with an anti-limescale product: ondemand, Disenia shower enclosures can be provided with extra clear glass treated against water drops and corrosion*. Water and grime slide much more quickly off this type of glass, making cleaning quick and easy (and keeping the enclosure attractive over time). It’s always a good idea, for all types of glass, to dry the panel with a cloth or squeegee after taking a shower. To remove obstinate limescale deposits, or descale the glass of a dated shower, if an attempt with a descaler is not successful, try using a magic eraser, an abrasive sponge that that may scrub away difficult to remove stains (always read the instructions provided with the product and check that the material in question is compatible).

Are you undecided about whether a shower enclosure with a sliding door is the best solution for your bathroom? We have drawn up a list of models according to their practicality: read our top five, easy to clean shower enclosures.

Cleaning the tiled walls

One of the least enjoyable operations, and we must confess, the least frequent, is undoubtedly cleaning the shower tiles (for corner or niche showers). Here we deal particularly with tiles, although contemporary bathrooms may use other materials, including marble, resin panels (like Tecnogel, chosen for several shower trays, such as Join or Dual) or wallpaper.

Each material has its special needs. In the case of tiles, you can use a bathroom cleaner that is both a descaler and degreaser. It’s useful to know whether the tiles are stoneware or ceramic so that you can decide on an acid-based product (stoneware) or not (ceramic).

It’s a good idea to occasionally clean the grouting between the tiles, as they tend to darken and become a little mouldy. Not to worry: there are detergents on the market for all types of materials and grime.

Cleaning the taps

The main problem for shower taps and fittings is the buildup of limescale, particularly if the water in the area is hard. To keep them in pristine condition, apply a good descaler with a sponge and rinse thoroughly, and always dry them after use to avoid unattractive blots.

The shower head and/or hand shower often come with rubber anti-limescale nozzles thatare easily cleaned with a needle or toothpick. The most important thing is to avoid limescale deposits as much as possible and dry all visible parts immediately after use. If supermarket detergents are not good enough, try industrial products from builders’ suppliers or DIY stores.

How to clean chromed taps and fittings: some tips

Cleaning the shower tray and drain

Cleaning the shower tray means not only washing the surface our skin comes into contact with, but also keeping the drain free and clean.

We have written two posts to go more deeply into both issues:

• a complete guide to maintaining resin shower trays by Disenia
• an article containing tips on how to clean the shower tray drain

As you can see, cleaning your shower thoroughly is not difficult, but you need to be aware of the materials involved. Don’t condemn commercial detergents out of hand; diluting them and using them sparingly is good practice and reduces plastic waste. It’s also a good habit to always keep surfaces and materials dry so that you use the more aggressive detergents as little as possible.

If you’re in doubt or have lost the instructions booklet for your Disenia products, not to worry: you’ll find them in the after-sales service area of our website, where you can also read the FAQs regarding care and maintenance of shower trays and enclosures.
Don’t miss out on inspiring ideas for your décor and new products by Ideagroup and Disenia. Register for our newsletter!

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Natural materials are undeniably luxurious and elegant. However, unlike engineered materials, choosing a natural material for the bathroom worktop also means having to take extra care for cleaning and maintenance, so as to preserve its original beauty. Not to worry: it’s all a matter of understanding the specific characteristics of the material and knowing what you need to do to keep it spotlessly clean daily without any risk of damaging it.

Let’s continue with our maintenance tips for different materials. We have already touched upon cleaning and looking after resin shower trays  and resin worktops. Today’s post will focus on luxurious natural worktops for Ideagroup bathroom furniture, specifically wooden, veneered and marble ones.

Wooden tops: cleaning and care

Natural wood lends character to bathroom furniture with its rich, warm look, feel and texture. The natural grain, knots and uneven texture of natural wood, and the unique characteristics and delicate condition of fossil wood boasted by the Cubik collection, may be an issue of concern.

Nature has favoured the preservation of these reclaimed woods by inhibiting the degradation process. Keeping them looking beautiful is easier than you may think. Let’s see how!

• General recommendations: clean along the grain, using a microfibre cloth or a soft bristle brush;
• For routine cleaning simply use a damp cloth and lukewarm water, and dry the surface accurately. With a little daily care and attention (always making sure limescale and soap residues are completely removed) not much more is needed;
• For more thorough cleaning you can add some neutral soap to the water, always remembering to make sure the surface is thoroughly dry.

The Cubik collection boasts several natural wood types:
see them all here

Style meets functionality: a brand new Nyù collection

Veneered top: cleaning and care

Veneered tops need exactly the same care and attention as solid wood ones. For your convenience we will reiterate the same recommendations as above. Of course you can always refer to the cleaning and care instructions contained in the booklets included in the package of your bathroom units: keep the instructions booklet as over time you may forget how to care properly for your bathroom worktop. 

• General recommendations: clean along the grain, using a microfibre cloth or a soft bristle brush (especially if it is Teak);
• For routine cleaning simply use a damp cloth and lukewarm water, and dry the surface accurately. With a little daily care and attention (always making sure limescale and soap residues are completely removed) not much more is needed;
• For more thorough cleaning you can add some neutral soap to the water, always remembering to make sure the surface is thoroughly dry.

Wooden worktops: the latest trend in bathroom furniture »

Marble worktop: cleaning and care

Marble has come back in fashion in recent years, as it is no longer just the epitome of prestigious, classic style. Modern, minimal homes are increasingly embracing the elegance of marble and its wonderful veins, and bathrooms are no exception.

To care properly for your marble bathroom top you need to follow some basic rules:

• Daily cleaning and care: marble is a naturally porous material that tends to absorb liquids, so it is fundamental that any spill is wiped off immediately to prevent permanent stains;
• Hard water stains: being a calcareous stone, marble must never be cleaned with common descaling detergents, which – like all acid substances – would corrode the surface irreparably;
• Mild solutions: marble tops can be cleaned daily with Marseille soap or baking soda (or other mild, neutral soaps) diluted in water. Rub any stain with a microfibre or woollen cloth, rinse well and wipe dry immediately to prevent marks and stains;
• Professional detergents and tools for more thorough cleaning: cleaning products specifically designed for marble are available on the market, including most supermarkets. They are excellent for cleaning and protecting your marble top and preserving its natural shine;
• Superficial stains and damage: you can restore your marble top to its original condition with the help of specifically designed polishing pads (available on the market). Alternatively, you can refer to a specialised stonemason.

Explore all the contrasting textures of the Dogma collection

Tips for cleaning your bathroom worktop: learn from our videos

Our Youtube channel contains a number of videos that show how to clean and care for your bathroom washbasins and tops. Here’s the full list:

As you have seen, it is not that difficult to preserve the beauty of a natural material, even if it is used in the bathroom.

If you still have doubts contact our dealers to find the most suitable material for your bathroom and learn how to care properly for it. Or feel free to continue exploring our blog, where you can find lots of interesting information about bathroom furniture made of different materials.

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Attentive cleaning and maintenance of your resin shower tray will keep it hygienic and looking good for a long time. Follow our instructions and watch the video at the end of this post to see how to avoid errors that risk damaging the surface.

Although modern shower trays may look practically the same, they come in different materials. If you are reading this post, you’ve probably bought a resin shower tray or are seeking information to help you make an informed decision before purchasing.

Because each type of material needs special attention, it is essential to know the exact name and composition of the product you choose: if the tray is already installed, read (and keep) the instructions provided in the packing.

If you no longer have the packing or have not yet purchased your shower tray, the Disenia website provides tips for each product, easily downloaded from ‘Assembly and Maintenance Instructions’.

Maintaining resin surfaces: read the post

Tecnogel and Solidgel shower trays: cleaning and maintenance

Find out whether Join is what you’re looking for

Tecnogel and Solidgel are similar materials, made up of natural mineral fillings and polyester resins from recycled PET, coated in gelcoat*, which is easily repaired if the surface is damaged. Follow our advice to keep them looking good over time:

• Every day cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive pad with mild detergent and warm water
• Stain removal > use a laundry brush to apply a solution with warm water and 50% vinegar
• Extraordinary cleaning and surface renovation > distribute a creamy detergent (e.g. Cif Cream) and brush energetically with a laundry brush. Rinse carefully.

*finish based on epoxy or polyester resins that make surfaces water resistant and distinguish their aesthetics or colour

Read more about Piano

Corian and Aquatek shower trays: cleaning and maintenance

See all City variants

Aquatek and Corian are materials with similar compositions, almost entirely acrylic resins that are washable and can be repaired if damaged.  Their characteristics make them ideal for creating any shape and size to meet all design needs.

Below are instructions for keeping them in perfect condition:

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• Every day cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth or non-abrasive pad with a mild detergent in warm water.
• Extraordinary cleaning and surface renovation > use a sponge to spread a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, and leave to stand for a few minutes (then rinse carefully).
• Surface scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > ask for our repair kit (the product provided is a coloured paste, just apply it to the area, no need to call in an expert.)

Click here to find out more about Onda

How to clean resin shower trays: a video

We have summarised the instructions for cleaning and maintaining resin shower trays on our YouTube channel. Click below to watch the videos dedicated to each model:

If you’re about to choose a shower tray, you can see a selection here:

• How to choose the ideal shower tray
• All our shower trays

It is important to find the most suitable product for your needs so that you are sure it will continue to satisfy you in the future and always look like new. If you’d like specific advice on choosing a shower tray, visit one of our dealers.

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If your bathroom boasts a washbasin or top in a resin-based material, read this post with useful tips for taking care of them so that they keep their good looks through time.

Contemporary bathroom decor features a wide variety of materials for washbasins, tops and shower trays. Unlike to traditional ceramic, whose characteristics and needs are well known, each of them requires different care that not everyone knows or observes.

The reason is that, although these materials are often similar, they have different material and chemical components that require specific cleaning and maintenance methods.

It follows that to take care of resin washbasins and tops so that they remain like new, it is essential to know the specific material involved.

It is extremely important to keep the maintenance instructions provided in the packing: as time goes by you may forget the name of the product and you may have similar materials in the house, so it’s easy to get confused. Keeping this important information to hand will make it possible to request the necessary instructions from the manufacturer or find them online.

Let’s take a look at each one separately, bearing in mind that the general rule for all surfaces is to avoid contact with harsh products (such as acetone, bad for almost all materials, or hair dyes) and abrasive cleaning pads, unless expressly advised!

Aquatek and Corian tops and washbasins: care and maintenance

See all the washbasins and variants in the Nyù Collection

See all the washbasins and variants in the Cubik Collection

Aquatek and Corian are both manufactured with the same raw materials, particularly extremely strong acrylic resins that are easy to clean and can be repaired when damaged. Below, some instructions to keep them in pristine condition:

• Daily cleaning  > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Extraordinary cleaning and surface renovation > use a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, wiping it over the surface with a sponge and leaving to stand for a few minutes (then rinse carefully)
• Surface scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite abrasive sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert)

Mineralsolid tops and washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralsolid is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with matt gelcoat (epoxy or polyester resin finish that makes surfaces impermeable, adding attractive aesthetics or colour).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Extraordinary cleaning and surface renovation > apply a creamy detergent (for example Cif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse carefully.

Mineralux tops and washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralux is made of recycled PET polyester resins, coated with glossy gelcoat (the only difference from Mineralsolid).

• Daily cleaning > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Extraordinary cleaning and surface renovation > use a solution of ¼ water and ¾ bleach, wiping it over the surface with a sponge and leaving to stand for a few minutes (then rinse carefully)
• Surface stains and scratches: use a polishing compound

Cristalplant® tops and washbasins: care and maintenance

Look for the furnishing solutions you prefer among those in the Dogma series

Cristalplant®is a solid surface made of pure aluminium trihydrate minerals bound with Biobased® vegetal resins (corn/maize), which gives a soft touch surface with a matt stone effect. It is highly resistant, also to yellowing, and is recyclable, hygienic and repairable. 

Tests performed due to the Covid-19 pandemic show that this material is also a virucide that can eliminate a virus from surfaces 60 minutes from contact (test report issued by UOCMV). This feature is especially important, particularly in public places.

• Daily cleaning  > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Extraordinary cleaning and surface renovation > apply a creamy detergent (for example Cif Cream) with a Scotch Brite abrasive sponge (provided), then rinse carefully
• Surface scratches and stains > use the Scotch Brite abrasive sponge provided
• Deep scratches and stubborn stains > request the renovation kit (as the colour is applied to the material as a paste, it can be repaired with the product supplied; no need to call an expert)

Mineralmarmo tops and washbasins: care and maintenance

Mineralmarmo contains 75% natural minerals such as calcium carbonate and aluminium trihydrates, and 25% polyester resin, coated with gelcoat and therefore highly resistant to water and foreign agents. The surface effect is bright and glossy.  It also has good heat resistance (up to 160°C).

• Daily cleaning  > use a cotton or microfibre cloth, or a non-abrasive sponge, with a mild detergent and warm water
• Extraordinary cleaning, surface scratch repair and surface renovation > request the renovation kit

Maintaining resin tops: watch the video

We have put together all our tips for taking care of resin tops and washbasins in a video on Ideagroup’s YouTube channel.

Taking care of surfaces on furniture and fixtures is important: it keeps them intact over time and your bathroom will always look like new. Find all our tips about taking care of products in the maintenance section of this blog.

If you’re still undecided about which material is right for you and your bathroom consult one of our dealers: inspect the materials for tops and washbasins hands-on before choosing the one you want!

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So, today let’s talk about cleaning the bathroom, paying particular attention to the shower area, which is one of the most difficult to clean and sanitise. The reason is probably the amount of time needed to eliminate limescale and soap deposits from tiles and shower enclosures compared to daily cleaning of more easily accessible fixtures.

If you are still planning your bathroom and have to choose the decor, you can go for certain shower enclosure models that facilitate daily cleaning or require less effort. Below we reveal these and the reason for our choice!

However, first a note about the individual elements of a shower area never to neglect.

How to clean a shower enclosure

Contrary to what one might think, it is not enough just to keep the glass parts of the shower clean. The same attention should be paid to the metal profiles, gaskets and shower tray.

• Glass: should be rinsed after every shower and dried, to prevent soap, limescale and body lotion residue from building up. Only if strictly necessary, periodically clean with special products (delicate) to remove grease. Be careful with anti-limescale treated glass: follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions carefully because in such cases chemical detergents should not normally be used.
• Profiles: in aluminium or steel, clean with mild detergents and dry. Do not use abrasive sponges, which will scratch the surface. Take care with coloured painted surfaces: it’s best to be even more delicate in this case and use mild soap, which is generally sufficient. The critical point is usually the bottom profile (if applicable, because some models eliminate these for aesthetic purposes), which requires more accurate care: a small nail brush can be useful here.
• Gaskets: as these are in plastic, they should be kept clean and soft because over time they tend to darken and harden (risk of cracking), particularly those in contact with the shower tray. Water and mild soap are enough and if possible (when they can be removed from glass doors) it’s a good idea to remove them and clean them carefully. If they have deteriorated (but are still intact), try treating them with a solution of alcohol or hydrogen peroxide diluted in water. In any case, contact the manufacture to replace them.
• Shower tray: sometimes the hygiene of the shower tray is neglected, but our feet should always stand on a clean surface with no residue from a previous shower. A valid tip is to rinse the tray thoroughly to prevent soap, detergent, cream, oil, body lotions and shampoo from drying onto it. Pay attention to the material used for your shower tray: today each type has special maintenance instructions, which it’s best to consult to avoid using unsuitable products.

See all our shower trays and choose the one you like best

In general, the more frequent cleaning is, the more delicate it is, and less damage is done to surfaces and materials over time.

Now that you know all the critical points of shower enclosures it will be easier for you to understand the criteria used in creating our classification. So, here are the top five shower enclosures, from the easiest to the most awkward to clean:

Fixed glass panels

For obvious reasons, it is the easiest ever shower enclosure to clean, given that it lacks sliding systems, gaskets, openings, handles, wheels and hinges. The only element is a large glass panel fitted into a slim profile fixed to the floor and wall. For this type of shower the only critical point is the gasket between the profile and tiles, particularly if there is visible silicone residue, which must be eliminated.

2. Swing door

This is a two-panel shower door that opens outwards and closes inwards (just like a saloon door). It’s easy to clean because the panels can open outwards to be dried or washed, or closed inwards so they don’t drip on the floor outside the shower. Models without bottom and top profiles (with side frames) are even more convenient, although the bottom drip gaskets under the two panels (to stop the water from leaking outside the shower) require cleaning.

3. Hinged or pivot doors (single or double)

In this case the doors open outwards, but are easily cleaned, particularly on models with slim frames. Just open the doors outwards to clean the internal part and then dry off.

It’s always a good idea to take care of the gaskets, often used on models with very few metal profiles.

4. Hinged doors

Included in this category are all types of shower with hinged openings (e.g. folding doors or hinged doors with a fixed panel). These models are practical, as they are similar to the ones mentioned above, but the hinges may complicate things. Take care not to spray aggressive glass-cleaning products on metal profiles and hinges, which should be treated more delicately.

5. Sliding doors

Although contemporary models have lighter frames with slim profiles, a sliding system slightly complicates things. There are top and bottom rails (often visible) to take Teflon runners or wheels which need to be cleaned periodically. Some models also have overlapping sliding and fixed doors, which can make cleaning awkward. Not to worry: although it takes a little more time and patience, these models can also be thoroughly cleaned.

If you have seen a model which could be ideal for you, according to the amount of care needed for daily cleaning, why not try planning it directly on our website.

Start configuring your shower now

Tips for choosing a shower enclosure that’s easy to clean:

Our top five is a list for consultation, but indications could vary according to the design of the models. So, what to do?

When purchasing a shower enclosure, it’s not always easy to realise whether it will be simple to manage, but there are some elements to take into account:

• Observe the structure of the model, the profiles and frame, to check whether they are linear or grooved;
• Check whether the sliding doors and fixed panels are overlapping: open and close them to check that there is total access to the glass surfaces when they’re closed;
• Check the hinges, imagine cleaning them to decide whether the operation will be simple;
• Ask if the gaskets can be removed for periodical cleaning and find out immediately if they can be replaced. It would be a good idea to procure some spare parts at the time of purchasing your shower enclosure.

An extra idea: to dry the glass parts after a shower, a hand-held squeegee is useful for eliminating water drops and limescale.

As an alternative, get into the habit of using a microfiber cloth immediately: it will give the same effect and take just a few seconds.

Squeaky-clean glass and no need to use more aggressive solutions will more than make up for this little chore, which will soon become a good habit.

Finally, if you need help to choose the best shower enclosure to meet your needs, ask your nearest Disenia dealer!

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If you are planning your shower area and the many alternatives on the market are confusing you, this post will give you some useful information.
Start with the fundamental criteria: which elements must you consider to understand which shower tray is the most suitable for your bathroom?

1. Shower tray dimensions

There are three types of shower trays:

• trays with standard dimensions that cannot be modified (e.g. 70×90, 80×100, 80x120cm);
• trays available in a variety of dimensions that vary just a few centimetres from each other. These are more versatile and suitable in most cases (e.g. the width of some trays is fixed – 70cm for example – and lengths vary from 80 to 180cm);
• bespoke trays produced to customers’ drawings, with irregular shapes.

ONDA FINISHES, DIMENSIONS AND COLOURS? BROWSE OUR CATALOGUE »

It’s clear that you have to keep in mind not just your wishes and taste, but also the bathroom layout, to see if you have the space for a standard shower tray, or if you need one made to measure.
In the event of a more complex bathroom, for example with a column, out-of-true walls or irregular niches that rule out a standard shower tray, you need one made to measure for you, or one that can be adapted during fitting: in other words, you don’t have to forego design and style, even with rooms that are difficult to plan.

Space-saving shower enclosure for small bathrooms: choosing an enclosure when space is at a premium. Read on »

2. Fitting

Shower tray flush with the floor or laid on top of it? Often the decision is conditioned by the space needed by the drain. If your house is under construction, there’s no problem, just remember to tell the fitter in time.
If on the other hand you are renovating, you should see about laying a recessed shower tray: the designer will need to check whether there is enough space for the drain (luckily, there are flatter drains to solve this problem).
In either case some models come with a border, which is both attractive (some people don’t like flush trays) and useful for containing water (or if the shower enclosure profile is not so minimal and requires more centimetres at the base).

Shower enclosure with or without a border? Read on »

Another important point regarding fitting is the choice of a shower tray that slopes or one with a fixed pan (the internal part used for washing) and a flat part. This depends on the position of the shower taps and the type of shower enclosure: in the case of Walk-in (our shower with an open, unglazed side) for example, it makes sense to leave the threshold flat and the pan with the drain in the part enclosed by glass.

Want to see what FINISHES, DIMENSIONS AND COLOURS STREET is available in? DOWNLOAD THE CATALOGUE »

3. Shower tray: which material?

Contemporary production technologies provide infinite finishes for modern shower trays. There are acrylics and ceramics (currently the standard choice), stone or stone-effect shower trays, trays in resin or technical materials (see below), and ultra-smooth to rough textured finishes. This means the style of your bathroom can be enhanced also by the type of shower tray you choose.

If you’re wondering what type of material is the best for a shower tray, the answer is there isn’t one: it depends on preference regarding aesthetics and personal needs.

There are materials with a rough texture (such as Solidgel) that are great in more rustic or industrial style bathrooms, and others that are smooth and minimal for more modern ones (Tecnogel, for example). To find out which is best, think about your priorities (Good looks? Colour? Possibility of a bespoke design?) before you make your choice.

DO YOU LIKE LINEA? DOWNLOAD THE CATALOGUE »

4. Shower tray colours

Just as coloured bathroom fixtures are back in fashion, coordinated with the furniture or tiles, shower trays can be coordinated with the bathroom decor thanks to the choice of colours available for each model. Colour is one of the factors that helps to create harmonious, customised interior design that oozes style and personality. Think about coordinating the shower tray with the finish of your cabinets, for example, or with the top and integrated wash basin

FINISHES, DIMENSIONS AND COLOURS: DOWNLOAD THE CATALOGUE »

Note: never neglect cleaning the shower tray

When choosing a shower tray, it is important to assess the material used also according to ease of cleaning and maintenance. The simpler the surface is, the easier it is to clean and the longer it will maintain its attractive appearance.
Each material has its peculiarities and needs (for example, it is better to avoid aggressive detergents on some of them, whereas it is not an issue for others). Ask the seller or search the company’s website for such information, or read the product instructions carefully.

IS JOIN YOUR CHOICE? DOWNLOAD THE CATALOGUE TO FIND OUT »

If you are still in doubt, or you’d like to have more information, contact one of our dealers nearest to you: you can see our shower trays hands-on and choose the one most suitable for your bathroom.

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