Cleaning your bathtub may not be at the top of your weekly list, but it feels delicious when you get into a sparkling clean tub. A well-maintained bathtub not only enhances the look of your bathroom but also ensures your bathing experience is hygienic and comfortable.
In this easy guide, I’ll show you how to clean your bathtub well with products and methods that work but won’t scratch or damage it. Whether your bathtub is soiled with dirt, soap buildup, or ugly stains, follow along to see your tub become as good as new.
The Best Way to Clean a Bathtub (For UK Homes)
Let’s begin learning how to clean a bathtub before we start cleaning. The best way to clean a bathtub is by using the right equipment, cleaning products, and techniques. You don’t need harsh chemicals; simple solutions can be just as effective.
Step 1: Clear Out the Tub
Before you get started, remove items such as shampoo bottles, soap dishes, bath mats, or bath toys. The last thing you want is to move things around while you’re cleaning, so clear the area for ease of access.
Step 2: Pre-Rinse the Tub
Start by rinsing your bathtub with warm water. This helps to loosen up any soap scum, dirt, or grime. This is a very important step; it is a preparation for a much deeper clean. Use your shower head or a bucket to wet down the tub’s surface completely.
Step 3: Apply Your Cleaning Solution
Now, you’re ready to apply your cleaner. Depending on your bathtub’s material, choose an appropriate solution.
- For Porcelain Bathtubs: Porcelain is sturdy and can withstand a variety of cleaners, but avoid harsh abrasives that might scratch the surface. Use a mild bathroom cleaner or a vinegar and water solution.
- For Acrylic or Fiberglass Bathtubs: These are more delicate. Avoid using abrasive scrubs. Instead, opt for a gentler all-purpose cleaner or a baking soda paste to lift stubborn stains.
If you’re looking for a natural cleaner, a mix of white vinegar and baking soda can work wonders. For every 250 ml of vinegar, mix in 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Apply this mixture generously to the tub and let it sit for 10–15 minutes to dissolve tough stains.
Step 4: Scrub the Tub
Use a non-abrasive sponge, microfiber cloth, or soft brush to scrub away the dirt and grime. Twitch from the top of the tub and work your way down. Focus on areas where soap scum tends to build up, like the faucet area and around the drain.
For stubborn stains, study using a cream made of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stains and scrub softly. For extra shine, use a soft cloth to wipe the tub in circular motions.
Step 5: Rinse the Tub Thoroughly
After you are done scrubbing, wash the tub with warm water. Be sure to take away all the cleaner and any dirt you’ve loosened. This step will make sure that no leftover stuff stays behind, keeping your bathtub fresh and clean.
What Not to Use to Clean Your Bathtub
It is important to know what to use, but it is also very important to know what to avoid. Some cleaning methods can hurt your bathtub, which can lead to expensive repairs.
1. Harsh Chemical Cleaners
Avoid cleaners with strong acids or ammonia, as they can damage the finish of your bathtub, especially if it’s made from acrylic or fiberglass. While bleach might seem like an easy option, it can discolor your tub, particularly porcelain, and create harmful fumes. Instead, use natural ingredients like white vinegar or store-bought cleaners specifically designed for bathtubs.
2. Abrasive Sponges or Steel Wool
Steel wool or scours can scratch the bathtub surface. It then becomes difficult to clean later. So, just take some soft sponges and always scrub it in a circular motion. This will prevent further damage.
3. Bleach (for Regular Cleaning)
Bleach can remove stains, but it is too harsh for regular cleaning and will damage your tub over time. You can use it occasionally to deep clean, but you should mix it with water and open a window or door in the bathroom.
How to Clean Mold or Rust from Your Bathtub
Mold and mildew love to grow in damp, warm environments like bathrooms. If you notice a musty smell or see visible spots, here’s how to tackle it:
Step 1: Use a Vinegar Solution
Mix parts of white vinegar and water in a stem bottle. Spray this solution directly onto the areas affected by mold and mildew. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to loosen the mold’s grip.
Step 2: Scrub the Area
Once the vinegar has had time to work, scrub the exterior with a soft brush or sponge. Focus on areas like grout lines or corners, where mold tends to grow.
Step 3: Apply Baking Soda for Stubborn Mold
For tough mildew or mold, use baking soda paste by mixing water with baking soda and apply to the area for 10–20 minutes before scrubbing again. Baking soda is a natural cleaner that can remove even the hardest mold stains without harming the surface.
Step 4: Dry the Tub
Once cleaned, dry your bathtub thoroughly to prevent any moisture buildup. Using a squeegee to remove excess water after each use can help prevent future mold growth.
Bathtub Cleaning Supplies You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the basic supplies you’ll need to keep your bathtub sparkling clean:
- Mild bathroom cleaner or all-purpose cleaner
- Baking soda (for stain removal)
- White vinegar (for tackling grime and mold)
- Microfiber cloths or soft sponges
- Soft-bristled brush (for tough stains)
- Squeegee (for drying off the tub after each use)
- Rubber gloves (to keep your hands from harsh cleaners)
Tips for Keeping Your Bathtub Clean
- Clean Regularly: The more often you clean your tub, the less buildup there will be. Target to clean your bathtub at least once a week.
- Use a Daily Cleaner: A daily shower spray can help prevent soap scum and mildew buildup after each use.
- Rinse After Each Bath: Quickly rinse your tub after each bath or shower to remove soap scum and prevent buildup.
- Prevent Stains with a Liner: If you have a shower, consider installing a shower curtain liner that’s easy to clean. This will prevent soap and water from splashing into your tub.
FAQ About Cleaning a Bathtub
Q1: How often should I clean my bathtub?
It’s best to clean your bathtub once a week, but if you notice grime building up, clean it more often. Regular cleaning prevents hard-to-remove stains.
Q2: Can I use bleach to clean my bathtub?
Bleach is fine for deep cleans, but the regular clean uses gentler options such as vinegar and baking soda.
Q3: How do I remove tough stains from my bathtub?
For tough stains, try a baking soda paste or a commercial cleaner designed for your tub’s material. Always scrub gently to avoid scratching.
Q4: How do I get rid of mold in my bathtub?
Mold removal using vinegar and baking soda. Spray some vinegar in the affected area, let it sit there for a while then scrub with baking soda for the tougher areas.
Conclusion
Cleaning a bathtub is not hard work or time-consuming. With the proper tools and techniques, you should be able to keep your tub shiny and mildew-free or mold-free for a long time. Using natural cleaners combined with the guide steps and following regular maintenance keeps your bathtub great for many more years.
Ready to give your bathtub the care it deserves? Grab the necessary cleaning supplies, and follow this step-by-step guide to achieve a sparkling, spotless bathtub. After all, a clean tub is a relaxing tub!
Buy the Best Bathtub Cleaning Supplies Here
Now that you have all the information, it’s time to put it into action! Ensure you have all the necessary supplies, such as a reliable bathroom cleaner, baking soda, and white vinegar, and start enjoying the benefits of a clean, fresh bathtub today.
