Does your bathtub stay stained no matter how thoroughly you clean it? Stubborn bathtub stains can be really ugly. They are usually caused by mineral deposits from the water, and even though they may seem like they can’t ever be cleaned, we’re bringing you a few tips on how to get rid of them for good.
Commercial cleaning products are made to maintain the shine and appearance of your bathtub, however, homemade cleaning solutions are equally effective and offer a more personalized touch to your standard cleaning routine. Not only are these DIY tricks cost-effective, but they are also gentle on the skin, allowing you to fully savor your soak in the tub without any worries.
How to Clean a Plastic Bathtub?
Plastic tubs are made of acrylic material which is durable and resilient, and that offers more flexibility when it comes to choosing the right cleaning solutions. Most of the common types of bathtub grime can be removed using widely available household items so here’s how to effortlessly eliminate those pesky stains and maintain the shiny look of your plastic bathtub:
Mold Growth
- To effectively tackle mold in your bathtub, create a mixture by combining equal amounts of lemon juice and water, and put it in a spray bottle.
- Add two tablespoons of baking soda into the mixture and give it a good swirl until fully dissolved. Apply this solution generously to areas with mold and allow it to sit until it dries.
- Apply it the second time by using a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub away the persistent mold.
- Rinse the bathtub thoroughly, and repeat the process if needed. This useful spray can also serve as a preventive measure. If you apply the solution lightly, it can stop the mold and mildew from returning in the future.
Hard water stains
Hard water stains can be extremely persistent and hard to remove from your plastic bathtub. An effective remedy is a paste made from baking soda and hydrogen peroxide.
- Start by combining baking soda with just enough hydrogen peroxide to craft a dense, paste-like mixture.
- Gently apply this paste to the hard water stains.
- Use a sponge or a soft brush to work this mild abrasive into the surface, however, ensure that the stains are removed without harming the tub.
- Allow the paste to sit until it dries, and then either rinse the tub with warm water or wipe off any excess residue.
- Continue this process until all traces of stains are gone. You can use this versatile solution to effectively clean tiles and grout, too.
Soap scum
For removing soap scum, the best is to use dish soap, even though soap removing soap doesn’t sound quite right. Still, dish soap has different properties that make it effective for removing bath soaps.
- Begin by blending two tablespoons of dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle, and give it a thorough mix.
- Apply the solution generously to areas affected by soap scum, allowing it to sit there for about 15 minutes.
- Take a gentle brush, and scrub away the stubborn scum.
- Conclude the process by rinsing the bathtub with warm water. If necessary, repeat the steps if needed. What’s more, this solution doesn’t need to be only your deep cleaning weapon against the soap scum, but you can use it during regular bathroom cleaning for removing dirt from your bathtub.
How to Clean a Jacuzzi or Jetted Bathtub?
To fully enjoy the benefits of your jetted bathtub, you need to keep it clean and sanitary. Cleaning one is not a “mission impossible”, but it also isn’t easy and it takes time.
Jetted bathtubs are also more complex than the regular ones, as they have multiple jets, air induction valves, and curves that could collect hidden dirt, mold, and bacteria you certainly don’t want in your hot bathing routine.
Flush the tub
Before any scrubbing, start by flushing the tub. Fill the tub with cold water about two inches above the jets, and run them without soap or additives for at least ten minutes. Turn the jets off and drain the tub.
Fill it with hot water
Following the flushing, prepare a cleansing solution by filling the tub with hot water, a few inches above the jets. This is where you introduce these cleaning steps:
- Add a mild dish detergent, typically ranging from 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup, depending on the size of your tub.
- Dissolve the detergent, and then incorporate 2 cups of distilled white vinegar.
- Check the manual for cleaning your jetted bathtub and if it’s permitted by the manufacturer, close the valves and run the jets for about 15 minutes.
- When this is done, drain the tub, and get ready to clean the stains.
Remove the stains
After draining the tub, address any lingering stains by applying a homemade baking soda paste:
- Create a paste using baking soda, water, and a bit of mild dish soap.
- Apply the paste to all tub surfaces, including fixtures.
- Use an old toothbrush to scrub the paste in a circular motion.
- Rinse off the paste with warm water.
Soak and drain once again
Once the traces of baking soda and soap residue are removed, allow the tub to soak one final time:
- Fill the tub with warm water, a few inches above the jets.
- Run the jets for 15 minutes with the valves open.
- If there is no remaining debris, proceed to drain the tub.
Prevent the stains from coming back
To prevent water stains, ensure the tub is completely dry. After draining, use a microfiber towel to wipe down the tub thoroughly. This final step will help maintain the tub’s pristine appearance and functionality.
How to Clean a Fiberglass Bathtub?
Maintaining fiberglass bathtubs is easy, still, when it comes to cleaning them, remember they could be sensitive to scratches, so try to use only gentle cleaning solutions, and non-abrasive brushes or sponges.
To clean your fiberglass tub, find a soft cleaning product, make a solution from warm water and dish soap, or a soft liquid laundry detergent, and follow the steps as explained earlier in this blog for a plastic bathtub.
You can also use mild to moderate alkali solutions like mixtures of baking soda with warm water, or a diluted TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitute in warm water, making sure it’s fully dissolved so it doesn’t scratch the tub.
When dealing with more tough stains create a paste using baking soda and vinegar. Dampen the surface of the tub, then gently apply the paste using a sponge, a soft nylon brush, or a cloth. Remember to rinse the treated surface thoroughly to ensure there’s no residue.
How to Clean a Cast Iron Bathtub?
If you have a cast iron bathtub, it is certainly a centerpiece of your bathroom. The cast iron tub is coated with a porcelain enamel layer that’s meticulously fused to the cast iron in a high-temperature furnace. While the cast iron surface is very durable, it’s still vulnerable to chips and scratches. Maintaining the cleanliness of your bathtub properly will help preserve its looks for years to come.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1
To remove dirt and stains from your bathtub’s walls, begin by warming them up. Fill the tub with 3-4 inches of hot water, ensuring that the water splashes onto the wall surfaces. After a few minutes, drain the water, and your bathtub walls will be warm and ready for cleaning.
Step 2
Make a cleaning solution by blending one gallon of hot water with two tablespoons of a non-abrasive cleaner or soap.
Step 3
Use a soft sponge or cloth to delicately scrub the tub’s surface.
Step 4
Thoroughly rinse the bathtub with hot water, leaving no trace of soap or cleaner residue behind.
Step 5
Finish the process by using a soft towel or cloth to dry the bathtub’s surface.
How to Clean a Porcelain Bathtub?
Well-maintained porcelain bathtubs also have that elegant and timeless look that gives a special style to your bathroom. Similarly to cast iron tubs, not all cleaning materials can be used on porcelain or enamel surfaces as they are sensitive to highly abrasive chemicals, as well as scratches.
Porcelain bathtub can therefore be cleaned in much the same way as the cast iron tub, or with similar care as if you would clean a mirror or a window. Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners as they can eat away the enamel, and use only a soft sponge and cloth.
For stubborn stains, a solution made from white vinegar or lemon juice with water can do, as the acid in these ingredients is less abrasive and won’t damage your tub.
How to Keep a Bathtub Clean?
The best and easiest way to keep your bathtub clean is to use natural ingredients such as white vinegar, or baking soda. With these solutions, the only thing you have to do is apply it to your tub, let it sit for about ten minutes, scrub it off, and rinse.
Regular maintenance is also crucial. To keep your bathtub consistently clean, repeat these cleaning routines weekly. A more thorough deep cleaning will depend on how much you use your tub, so it can be required monthly or only a couple of times a year. If you are changing homes, a move in cleaning must include sanitizing the bathtub to its pristine condition.
Deep cleaning may include using specialized cleaning solutions for tough stains, tackling details like grout lines, and the removal of mineral deposits, mold, mildew, and other issues to restore the bathtub to its original appearance.
How to Clean a Bathtub Drain?
Keeping your bathtub drain clean is important for efficient water flow and preventing clogs and odors. Cleaning is simple – begin by removing any visible debris or hair from the drain using your hands with rubber gloves on, or some small tool.
Next, pour a mixture of equal parts baking soda and vinegar down the drain, allowing it to break down any remaining residue. After about 15 minutes, flush the drain with hot water to clear away the loosened debris. Regular maintenance like this can keep your bathtub drain running smoothly without any blockages.
How to Clean a Bathtub Faucet?
To clean a bathtub faucet use a soft cloth or sponge and a mild soap with water to wipe down the faucet. For hard mineral deposits or scale buildup, soak a cloth in white vinegar, wrap it around the faucet, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to dissolve the deposits.
After that, scrub the faucet gently with a soft brush to remove any residue. Rinse it thoroughly with water and dry the faucet with a clean cloth to prevent water spots. Regular cleaning will keep your bathtub faucet looking shiny, functional, and free from buildup.
How to Clean a Bathtub Mat?
If you’re using a bathtub mat, here’s how to properly clean it. First, remove the mat from the bathtub and give it a good shake to dislodge any loose debris. Then, soak the mat in a solution of warm water and a mild detergent, and use a brush or sponge to scrub away any soap scum, dirt, or mold.
For tougher stains, a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar can work well. After using the vinegar solution, rinse the mat thoroughly, and hang the mat to dry completely before returning it to the tub. This routine cleaning not only keeps your mat looking fresh but also maintains your hygiene and safety.
