How to Clean a Bathtub the Right Way

Keeping your bathtub clean is not only crucial for maintaining a sparkling bathroom but also for ensuring a healthy and hygienic environment. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of soap scum, limescale, and mildew, which can lead to unpleasant odors, unsightly stains, and even health issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to clean different types of bathtubs—acrylic, fiberglass, and porcelain—using safe and effective methods. We’ll also cover how to tackle common issues like mold and rust stains.

Before You Begin

Before diving into the cleaning process, there are a few important steps to take:

1. Remove All Items from the Bathtub: This includes toiletries, bath toys, loofahs, and any other items that might get in the way.

2. Ventilate the Bathroom: Open windows and doors to ensure proper ventilation, especially if you’re using strong cleaning agents like bleach.

3. Wear Protective Gear: Rubber gloves are essential to protect your hands from harsh chemicals. If you’re using bleach or other potent cleaners, consider wearing goggles to protect your eyes.

Warning: Avoid mixing cleaning products, particularly bleach with acidic cleaners like vinegar, as this can create toxic gases that are hazardous to your health.

How to Clean an Acrylic Bathtub

Acrylic bathtubs are popular due to their affordability and lightweight nature. However, they can be prone to scratches, so it’s important to use non-abrasive cleaning methods.

Step 1: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Start by sprinkling a thin, even layer of baking soda over the entire surface of the tub. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that helps lift dirt and grime without scratching the acrylic surface.

Step 2: Spray Vinegar Solution

In a spray bottle, mix equal parts of warm water and cleaning vinegar. Spray the solution over the baking soda. The combination of vinegar and baking soda will start to fizz, which helps break down soap scum and mineral deposits.

Step 3: Scrub Gently

Using a soft sponge or a soft-bristle brush, gently scrub the tub. Focus on areas with visible dirt or soap scum, but be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause scratches.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the tub with warm water. Make sure all traces of baking soda and vinegar are removed. Finally, dry the tub with a clean towel to prevent water spots and streaks.

Tip: Use an old toothbrush to clean around the drain and other hard-to-reach areas.

How to Clean a Fiberglass Bathtub

Fiberglass bathtubs are another affordable option but are less durable than acrylic. They’re particularly prone to stains, so it’s essential to use the right cleaning methods to avoid damage.

Step 1: Create a Baking Soda Paste

Mix baking soda with warm water to create a paste. Spread the paste evenly over the tub’s surface, including the floor and walls of the bathtub.

Step 2: Soak Towels in Vinegar

Soak an old towel in cleaning vinegar and place it over the areas coated with the baking soda paste. You may need to use multiple towels to cover the entire tub. Let the towels sit for about an hour to allow the vinegar to break down stains and grime.

Step 3: Scrub and Rinse

Remove the towels and use a soft sponge to scrub the tub, focusing on any remaining stains. Rinse the tub thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue.

Step 4: Dry the Tub

Use a microfiber towel to dry the tub completely. This helps prevent water spots and keeps the surface looking shiny.

Note: Fiberglass tubs can be particularly challenging to clean if they become heavily stained. If the method above doesn’t work, you may need to consider refinishing the tub or hiring a professional.

How to Clean a Porcelain Bathtub

Porcelain bathtubs are known for their durability and ease of cleaning. However, they can chip and rust over time, so proper care is necessary.

Step 1: Clean Soap Scum and Debris

To tackle soap scum and debris, first close the drain of the tub. Add a few spoonfuls of dishwashing soap and a gallon of hot water to the tub. Use a soft sponge to scrub the mixture over the entire surface, focusing on areas with soap scum.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the tub thoroughly with water to remove the soap. Dry the surface with a microfiber towel to prevent water spots.

Step 3: Remove Rust Stains

If your porcelain tub has rust stains, cover the stain with lemon juice and sprinkle salt over it. Allow this mixture to sit for up to an hour. The acidity of the lemon juice combined with the abrasive nature of salt helps to lift rust stains.

Step 4: Scrub and Rinse

After the mixture has had time to work, scrub the area with a sponge until the stain is removed. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry with a towel.

Note: If rust stains persist, it might be time to consider refinishing the tub to restore its appearance.

How to Clean Mold and Mildew in Your Bathtub

Mold and mildew can be a persistent problem in bathtubs, particularly in humid environments. Using bleach is effective for removing mold and mildew from fiberglass and porcelain tubs.

Step 1: Mix Bleach Solution

In a spray bottle, mix one part chlorine bleach with four parts warm water. Spray the solution on the moldy areas and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 2: Scrub the Area

After the bleach solution has had time to work, scrub the mold and mildew with a sponge or a soft-bristle brush. Be sure to wear gloves and goggles to protect your skin and eyes from the bleach.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the tub thoroughly with warm water to remove all traces of bleach. Dry the tub with a microfiber towel.

Warning: Avoid using bleach on acrylic bathtubs, as it can damage the surface. Instead, use vinegar to clean mold and mildew in acrylic tubs.

Additional Tips to Keep Your Bathtub Clean Longer

• Rinse After Every Use: After each bath, take a moment to rinse off the tub’s walls and floor to remove any remaining soap and dirt.

• Dry the Tub: Wipe down the tub after rinsing to prevent water spots and soap scum buildup.

• Use Dishwashing Soap: If you’re short on time, a little dishwashing soap can help quickly clean up soap scum.

• Prevent Mold and Mildew: Keep an eye out for early signs of mold and mildew. Use a bleach-based spray (or vinegar for acrylic tubs) to tackle the issue before it spreads.

• Store Items Outside the Tub: When not in use, remove toys and other items from the bathtub to prevent water stains and soap scum buildup.

Conclusion

Cleaning your bathtub regularly is essential for maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom. By following these tailored cleaning methods for acrylic, fiberglass, and porcelain bathtubs, you can effectively remove soap scum, limescale, rust stains, and mold without damaging the surface.

Regular maintenance, such as rinsing and drying your tub after each use, will help keep it looking new for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains or just giving your tub a quick refresh, these tips ensure you’ll have a sparkling clean bathtub that’s ready for your next relaxing soak.

Related

• How to Clean a Bathtub in 7 Simple Steps
• Ten Great Tips For Cleaning Bathtub
• Pro Tips for Cleaning Your Bathtub & Shower
• How to Remove Grout, Mortar, and Drywall Mud From a Bathtub

Tags