Since vinyl floors are economical, dependable, and simple to maintain, they are a common choice for many homes. However, vinyl floors can develop wear and tear with time, just like any other type of flooring. The best way to maintain the appearance of your vinyl floors is to carefully clean and protect them. You may extend the lifespan of your vinyl floors by revitalizing and protecting them using the advice in this professional guide.

Step 1: Cleaning Your Vinyl Floors

Cleaning thoroughly is the first step in rejuvenating your vinyl floors. What you need to know is as follows:

• Use the proper cleaner: It’s crucial to use the correct kind of cleaner while cleaning vinyl floors. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or harsh chemicals on your flooring since they might scratch the surface. Choose a cleaner that is made especially for vinyl flooring instead. These cleansers are gentle enough to get rid of filth and grime without harming your floors’ finish.
• Vacuum or sweep frequently: Keeping your vinyl floors clean requires frequent sweeping or vacuuming. If left uncontrolled, dirt, dust, and debris can scratch the surface of your flooring. This will assist in removing them.
• Regular mopping is recommended in addition to cleaning or vacuuming vinyl floors. To get rid of any filth or grime that might have escaped regular sweeping or vacuuming, use a damp mop and a mild cleanser.

Step 2: Removing Stains

No matter how well you clean your vinyl floors, they may still develop stains. Here’s what you need to know to remove stains from your vinyl floors:

• Identify the type of stain: Before you start cleaning a stain, it’s important to identify what type of stain it is. Different types of stains require different cleaning methods, so it’s important to know what you’re dealing with.
• Use a light cleaning: Most stains can be removed with a mild cleanser. Apply the cleanser directly to the stain, let it stay for a short while, and then wipe it away with a damp cloth.
• Use a specialized cleaner: You may need to use a professional cleaner for persistent stains. Use a cleaner made especially for cleaning grease or oil stains as an illustration. To get the stain out, just adhere to the cleaner’s label’s directions.

Step 3: Protecting Your Vinyl Floors

It’s time to safeguard your vinyl floors once they’ve been thoroughly cleaned and stain-free. What you must do is as follows:

• One of the greatest ways to protect your vinyl floors is to place mats at the entrances. This will assist in catching dust and other particles before they damage the finish of your floors.
• Use felt pads under furniture: Placing felt pads beneath your furniture is another excellent technique to safeguard your vinyl flooring. When you move the furniture, this will stop it from damaging the floor’s surface.
• Avoid wearing high heels: High heels can cause deep scratches in your vinyl floors, so it’s best to avoid wearing them. If you must wear high heels, try to use a rug or mat to protect the surface of your floors.
• Avoid dragging heavy objects: Dragging heavy objects across your vinyl floors can also cause scratches and damage. Always lift heavy objects when you need to move them, rather than dragging them across the surface of your floors.

Conclusion

Vinyl floors are a popular and affordable choice for many households. With proper care and maintenance, your vinyl floors can last for many years. By following the steps outlined in this expert guide, you can revitalize and protect your vinyl floors, keeping them looking their best for years to come. Remember to clean your floors regularly, remove any stains promptly, and protect your floors from scratches and damage. With these tips, you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting vinyl floors in your home.

Your kitchen cabinets are a focal point of your kitchen and can make or break the look of the entire room. Unfortunately, over time, grease, grime, and food particles can build up on your cabinets, making them look dull and dirty. Oak cabinets, in particular, require special care as they can easily become damaged by harsh chemicals. Instead of hiring a professional cleaner or replacing your cabinets, you can give them a deep clean yourself using a combination of natural, eco-friendly and chemical-based products.

Step 1: Remove all items from your cabinets

Before you start cleaning, remove all items from your cabinets, including dishes, cookware, and small appliances. This will make it easier to access all the surfaces and corners of your cabinets.

Step 2: Clean the exterior

Mix a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the exterior of your cabinets and wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth. Be sure to pay special attention to any areas with built-up grime or grease. For tough stains, you can use a small amount of mild detergent or wood cleaner specifically designed for oak cabinets. Always test the cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it doesn’t cause any damage.

Step 3: Interior cleaning

Cabinet drawers and doors should be taken out and laid level on a clean surface. Scrub away any filth or grime using a toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush. The internal surfaces can be cleaned with a mild detergent or the same mixture of white vinegar and water. Make care to completely rinse with clean water before wiping down with a fresh cloth.

Step 4: Re-oil or re-stain the cabinets

After cleaning, you may notice that your oak cabinets have lost some of their original color or finish. To restore the natural beauty of your oak cabinets, you can re-oil or re-stain them. If you choose to re-oil, use a natural oil such as tung oil or linseed oil. Apply the oil to a clean, dry cloth and rub it into the wood, following the grain. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil and let it dry overnight before applying a second coat. If you choose to re-stain, use a stain that is specifically designed for oak wood and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to test the stain on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that you are happy with the color.

Step 5: Maintain your cabinets

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your oak cabinets looking their best. Every week, wipe out the inside and outside of your cabinets with a gentle, moist cloth. Use coasters or placemats to shield the wood from liquids and stay away from abrasive or harsh chemicals. Every six months, you might want to give the wood a coat of natural oil or wax to help protect it and keep it looking its best.

In conclusion, by following these steps you will be able to give your oak kitchen cabinets a deep clean and restore their natural beauty. Remember to use a combination of natural, eco-friendly and chemical-based products, and always test them in a small area first. Regular maintenance will also help keep your cabinets looking their best for years to come.

Hey pet owners, we know that our furry friends bring so much love and joy to our homes, but let’s be real, keeping a clean and safe home for both us and our pets can be a bit of a challenge. But don’t worry, with a little bit of effort and the right approach, it’s totally doable!

To help you out, here are some tips and tricks to keep your house tidy and comfortable for both you and your pets:

Regular grooming decreases the quantity of pet hair and dander in your home while also keeping your pets clean and healthy. Less shedding, fewer allergies, and a milder odor result from this.

Use doormats: Placing doormats at all the entrances to your home can help to reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets tracked in by your pets. This simple step can help to keep your home cleaner and save you time on cleaning.

Vacuum and mop regularly: Regularly vacuuming and mopping can help to remove pet hair, dander, and any dirt or debris that your pets may bring in from outside. This helps to keep your floors looking and smelling fresh, and is especially important if you have carpets or rugs in your home.

Clean pet beds and toys regularly: Pet beds and toys can become breeding grounds for bacteria and odors if not cleaned regularly. Clean them frequently to ensure that your pets are sleeping in a clean and healthy environment.

Use cleaning supplies that are safe for animals: Regular cleaning supplies can be detrimental to your pets. In order to protect your furry pals, make sure you only use pet-safe cleaning supplies when cleaning your home.

Designate spaces for your pets: Designating areas for your pets, such as a certain room or corner of a room, can assist to keep the rest of your house cleaner. This makes it simple for you to keep an eye on your pets and limit the quantity of hair and dander they introduce into the rest of the house.

Potty train your pets: Potty training your pets can help reduce accidents and messes in the house. Teaching them where to go to the bathroom and having a consistent potty schedule can help them understand where they should go when they need to relieve themselves.

Invest in pet-proof furniture. Having high-quality pet-resistant furniture, such as pet-resistant sofas and chairs, as well as pet-resistant bedding and linens, will help your home stay cleaner and more hygienic while reducing wear and strain on your furniture.

By following these tips, you can keep your home clean and pet-friendly. But, let’s face it, life can be hectic and finding the time to clean can be a challenge. That’s where professional cleaning services come in. Our expert cleaners understand the unique challenges that come with pet ownership and have the knowledge and tools to effectively clean and sanitize your home while also taking into consideration the needs of your pets. Whether you need a one-time deep clean or regular cleaning services, we are here to help.

Don’t let pet ownership take over your life, let us help you keep your home clean and pet-friendly. Contact us today to schedule your professional cleaning services and enjoy more time with your fur-pals.

Any home would benefit from having hardwood floors since they bring coziness, style, and character to any space. They can be difficult to keep clean though, particularly if you’re not aware of the most effective cleaning techniques. To keep your hardwood floors in excellent shape for years to come, it’s critical to know how to properly care for them, whether you’re dealing with filth, stains, or scratches.

Avoiding using excessive amounts of water is among the most crucial considerations while washing hardwood floors. Due to the porous nature of hardwood flooring, it is possible for the wood to rot, distort, or even break under extreme wetness. Choose a damp cloth or mop instead, and wring it out completely before using it to clean.

It’s critical to deal with stains as soon as they appear in order to stop them from setting in. You can clean the area with a solution of water and white vinegar for minor stains. Use a paste made of baking soda and water for tougher stains. Before removing the stain with a damp cloth, rub the paste onto it and let it sit for a while.

Another effective cleaning hack for hardwood floors is to use a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil to bring out the natural shine of the wood. Simply mix equal parts lemon juice and olive oil and apply it to the floor with a clean cloth. Wipe it off with another clean cloth and enjoy the beautiful shine that results.

Try scrubbing your hardwood floors with a solution of lemon juice and baking soda to revive them if they appear dull or scuffed. Make a mixture out of equal parts lemon juice and baking soda, then scrub the floors using a brush with a soft bristle. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the floors afterward to get rid of any leftover residue.

Utilizing a cornstarch and water solution to erase scuff marks from hardwood floors is another efficient cleaning tip. Apply a paste made of equal parts cornstarch and water on the scuff mark and let it sit there for a while. The scuff mark ought to disappear after you wipe it away with a moist cloth.

For more heavy-duty cleaning jobs, you can also use a professional hardwood floor cleaners.

Some popular natural cleaning products include:

1. Method Squirt and Mop Hardwood Floor Cleaner
2. Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner
3. Dr. Bronner’s Sal Suds

For chemical cleaning products:

1. Bruce Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner
2. Zep Hardwood and Laminate Floor Cleaner
3. Weiman Hardwood Floor Cleaner

Chemical cleaners can cause damage to hardwood floors over time, which is why it’s important to consider natural cleaning alternatives to preserve the integrity of your floors. To ensure the longevity of your hardwood floors, protect them from scratches and scuffs by placing doormats at all exterior doorways, using furniture protectors on chair and table legs, and placing rugs in high traffic areas.

Different types of hardwood floors may have specific care instructions, so it’s recommended to consult with the manufacturer or a professional if you’re unsure about how to best care for your floors. Before using any cleaning solutions, it’s always a good idea to test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t cause any damage.

In conclusion, to keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful and well-maintained for years to come, follow proper cleaning methods and use the right products. Consult with professionals and test cleaning solutions before use to ensure they won’t cause damage. Proper care and maintenance will keep your hardwood floors in pristine condition.

Few countertop materials boast the classic beauty of cultured marble. However, many homeowners find themselves stumped when it comes to cleaning the material. While cultured marble is durable and resistant to chips, cracks and stains, proper maintenance is key in keeping your surfaces looking pristine.

1. Use Mild Soaps & Cleaners
Cultured marble is a sensitive material and should never be exposed to harsh or overly abrasive cleaners. Instead, use gentle soaps or specifically formulated cleaners when washing your countertops. Avoid any product that contains ammonia as this can dull the shine and cause discoloration over time.

2. Rinse Well After Cleaning

Although a mild soap is recommended for daily cleanings, you may be tempted to simply wipe away any dirt and debris instead of going through the hassle of rinsing off your soap residue completely with clean water. But if you want to maintain a lasting shine on your countertop surface, take the extra step of thoroughly rinsing off all soapy residue after washing since leftover soap can contain chemicals that damage cultured marble surfaces over time.

3. Wipe Up Spills Immediately

Cultured marble is highly resistant to staining but not immune to it; leaving spills on the countertop too long could result in nasty marks that are difficult or impossible to remove without using strong cleaners and scrubbing pads that can scratch the surface of your countertop over time. Whenever possible, try to immediately wipe up any spills with a soft cloth dampened in warm water before they have a chance to set into the stone’s pores and cause staining or discoloration problems in the future.

4. Use Coasters & Toothbrushes for Tough Stains

For tougher stains such as food remnants like tomato sauce, mustard, or cooking grease, use a soft-bristled toothbrush along with some mild dish soap diluted with warm water directly onto the stain surface itself rather than using an all-purpose cleaning spray designed for other surfaces like tile grout which could damage cultured marble countertops over time due to its chemical content. Afterwards, rinse off using plenty of fresh water before drying with a soft cloth; ensure no traces of cleaner remain on the marbled surface which could potentially harm its original look over time.

5. Blend Away Etch Marks

Although harder than most natural stones used for countertops today like granite or travertine, cultured marbled easily etches from acids such as lemon juice , vinegar and even simple household items such as coconut oil which has recently become popular for beauty DIYs online today. To fix light etching on surfaces including steel sinks, simply blend surrounding area with paste wax pre-designed specifically for cultured marble then buff out edges until mark becomes invisible. For deep etching, avoid store-bought finishing products altogether. Place a small amount of rubbing compound, then buff till mark disappears.

After the holidays, it’s common for homes to feel cluttered and in need of a deep clean. Whether you hosted holiday gatherings or simply accumulated more mess over the weeks, tackling post-holiday home cleaning is crucial to get your space feeling fresh and organized again. While it may seem like a daunting task, breaking it down into smaller steps can make it more manageable. Here are five tips for getting your home back in order after the holiday season:

1. Start with the decorations. The first step in post-holiday home cleaning is to take down any holiday decorations and put them away neatly in storage bins. Not only will this make your home feel less cluttered, but it will also give you a sense of accomplishment. As you take down the decorations, make a list of any items that may need repair or replacement. This will help you stay organized and save time and money in the future.
   
2. Tackle the kitchen. The kitchen is likely the busiest room in the house during the holidays, and it can also be the most cluttered. Start by throwing away any spoiled food and recycling any packaging. Wipe down counters, appliances, and tables, and don’t forget to clean the inside of the fridge and pantry. Consider decluttering your pantry by getting rid of expired or unused items. This will make it easier to find what you need and save space.
   
3. Deep clean the living room. After the holidays, the living room is often in need of a thorough cleaning. Vacuum and dust the space, paying special attention to any areas that may have accumulated extra dirt or debris over the holidays. Consider steam cleaning the couch and chairs to get them looking and smelling fresh. If you have hardwood floors, consider giving them a good mopping or buffing.
   
   
   
4. Wash all the linens. Strip the beds and wash all the bedding, towels, and any other linens that may have accumulated dirt or stains over the holidays. This is also a good time to rotate your mattress and launder your pillows. Consider investing in high-quality bedding and towels to make post-holiday home cleaning easier in the future.
   
5. Don’t forget the outdoor spaces. The holiday season is often a time of excess, and that includes outdoor spaces like the porch and deck. Take a few minutes to sweep away any dirt or debris and tidy up any outdoor furniture. If you have a fireplace, now is a good time to clean out the chimney and get it ready for use.

By following these steps, you can effectively tackle post-holiday home cleaning and get your space feeling fresh and organized again. While it may seem like a lot of work, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you’re finished is worth it. And if you don’t have the time or energy to tackle this task on your own, consider hiring a professional home cleaning service to help. With a little elbow grease and a thorough approach, you’ll be able to enjoy your home and start the new year off right.

Have you ever wondered how people maintain immaculate countertops?
A unique countertop goes hand in hand with a unique way of cleaning it.

1. Butcher Block

Butcher blocks are straight wood pieces glued together, making a very sturdy surface. It has naturally occurring antimicrobial substances in the wood grain that makes it a more sanitary overall choice.

You can use any type of wood to make this type of work surface, but don’t forget that proper sealing is important to reduce staining risks. Our perfect cleaning tip is by applying non-abrasive cleaners like mild-dishwashing soap using a sponge​.

You can also use dedicated wood cleaners for this type of countertop. Avoid using harmful chemicals such as bleach and detergent as these chemicals may cause damage.

2. Concrete

Concrete countertops are relatively new as compared to the others in the market. Various innovations made them lightweight and ideal for your home.

Most of the time, concretes need proper sealing. Make sure that you use a gentle or neutral cleaner to avoid eroding the sealant. Microfiber cloths with dish soap and warm water will do the trick for you. Rinse and repeat while you work around the area. 

Avoid putting hot objects on top of the concrete surfaces. The heat may cause discoloration to the sealant. Do not allow any spills and immediately wipe it up if there are any. Prevent the surface from getting wet with acidic substances like juice and vinegar since sealants may be affected.  You should reapply concrete plasters if it has suffered enough damages.

3. Glass

Glass is one of the most versatile materials for making countertops. You can shape it in any way you want to make gorgeous designs. What’s more, they are quite durable compared to others. However, they are dense and damage-prone.  

 When cleaning, prepare a mix of baking soda and water to remove stain marks. Use a sponge to scrub the stained surface and rinse it with warm water and smooth cloth. A mixture of mild soap and water is enough for the daily maintenance of glass countertops. You can also use a mix of 50:50 vinegar and water mixture.

Even though they are heat-resistant, use a trivet whenever you are laying down hot dishes or pans. Avoid putting them down on the surface for a long time to prevent any discoloration.               

4. Granite

Granite countertops are aesthetic and add good value to your real estate investment. They are heat-resistant and heavy, which makes them very sturdy. However, granite is quite expensive and needs proper sealing to reduce stains.

Our pro-tip is making a paste from baking soda and water. Apply this on the surface using the fibrous part of your sponge. Never use mild soap as it’s known to degrade your granite countertops over time.

Ensure that spills from acidic substances such as vinegar using a sponge and warm water are dried up. Use a pH-neutral cleaning agent that is specific for countertops made of stone. Apply it on a soft cloth and wipe the surface on a circular motion to clean the entire countertop.

5. Laminate

Laminate countertops are popular nowadays. They are lightweight and quite cheap as compared to other types. The issue with this type of part is that they are prone to staining.  

Our cleaning tip is to prepare a mixture of baking soda and vinegar whenever there is a stain. Put this paste on top of the stain and lay a damp paper to keep it moist. You may also use citrus oil with D-Limonene as a laminate stain remover. Apply carnauba wax every quarter of the year to maintain its scratch-resistant surface.

Avoid the use of abrasive cleaners and metal scrubbers since it can damage and scratch its soft surface. Do not put hot dishes on top of this countertop to prevent any scorching.

6. Marble

Marbles are similar to granite ones – they add value to your investment. Additionally, they are heavy, sturdy, and have great designs for your home aesthetic. However, these countertops easily stain.

Our ideal cleaning tip is to use a phosphate-free detergent with warm water and then scrub the surface with a sponge. For stain buildups, apply borax and then rub it with a soft sponge. Avoiding any moisture left is important since it may eventually damage the marble countertop.

Just like granite countertops, dry up any spills of acidic substances such as wine, fruit juices, vinegar, coffee, and many more. Do not leave dishes on top of your marble countertops since oil can discolor marble. Avoid harsh cleaning agents such as ammonia and bleach. Stay away from rough cloths and sponges that needs replacement as cleaners since it may damage the surface as well.

7. Quartz

Quartz counters are gorgeous to look at, and they are durable. Another advantage of having them is that they are non-porous, so they don’t require sealing. They are quite resistant to stains, but they can discolor when exposed to sunlight for a long time.

The usual mixture of mild soap and warm water is the go-to cleaning tip for this type. If you have white vinegar, mix it water and use it for daily cleaning. Make a paste with baking soda and water then apply it on the rough side of a sponge to remove any visible stains. Rinse it with warm water and wipe it with a soft cloth. They are quite sanitary, so antibacterial cleaners are not necessary.

Do not use strong cleaning agents, such as bleach that can discolor and damage the surface of your quartz countertop. Avoid exposing quartz to extreme heat, especially from dishes or cooking ware since it can discolor its surface.

8. Soapstone

The highlight of soapstone is that they are low-maintenance and fairly hardy. Additionally, they are non-porous, so you won’t need any sealing for this countertop to resist stains. However, they have a softer nature, so we recommend avoiding damage from heavy pots and pans on its surface.

A combination of warm water and a mild soap is enough to clean this type of countertop. If there are food stains present, feel free to use abrasive cleaners. When there is a small scratch present, you can use worn-out sandpaper to rub the scratched part. This technique will flatten its surface. You also need to apply oil monthly to prevent the countertop from absorbing any moisture present.

Put away very sharp and hard objects that can easily scratch your countertop. Since it is also a stone, it prevents the absorption of any kind of moisture. It may dull its quality. 

9. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is durable, heat-resistant, rustproof, and pleasing to the eye. The drawbacks are that they are prone to water stain and can dent. They are also non-porous, and acidic chemicals will not damage its surface.

The best cleaning tip is to use strong white vinegar and apply it using a damp sponge and rub it thoroughly. Rinse the wet part and dry it well using a soft cloth. For hard-to-remove stains, use a mild stainless-steel cleaner. When cleaning spots, apply a glass cleaner and wipe it immediately with a soft sponge. Rinse it well with a microfiber cloth. Use a stainless-steel cleaner periodically to bring back its luster. If rust appears, try to use a non-abrasive solution or baking soda to remove it.

Put away harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that can damage and add permanent scratches to the stainless steel. Do not let any spills or leftovers to sit on the surface to avoid any stains.

10. Tile

You can see tiles in almost any household. They are cheap, lightweight, and have varied designs. However, they are quite flimsy and very susceptible to stains. This countertop is just one heavy pan or pot drop away from being broken or cracked.

When cleaning, apply baking soda on a damp sponge and wipe the surface of your counter. Rinse it with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth. To remove stains and grease, make a mixture of ¼ cup baking soda, a tablespoon of borax, and two tablespoons of mild soap.

Wet the tiles then rub the surface with the mixture using a nylon brush. Clean the spaces between them using baking soda and then lemon juice. Scrub it with a sturdy brush and then rinse it with warm water. Dry up the area to avoid any excess moisture.

Since the grout in between tiles is porous, avoid getting that part wet and do not allow moisture to build up. Immediately wipe away any spills with a soft cloth.

Spekless Cleaning Service

If all else fails, do not hesitate to seek our help! Save yourself from the worries of cleaning your home and Get An Instant Estimate Now!  

Cleaning your bathtub shouldn’t be a stressful process; learn more about why and how you should keep your bathtub clean with our 6 easy steps on cleaning your bathtub today!

The Best Way to Clean Your Bathtub In 6 Easy Steps

So, you’ve decided to clean your bathtub. Awesome! After all, nobody wants to take a relaxing bath in a tub full of soap scum, dirt, body oils, or worse. Cleaning your bathtub shouldn’t be complicated, but if you’re not sure where to begin, the experts at Spekless are here with our top tips and hacks on the best ways to clean your tub today!

Our Top 6 Tips for Cleaning Your Bathtub 

1. Get your products and materials. Unsure which products to use? There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for bathtubs, so you should go with a manufacturer recommended product or cleaning products designed for your tub. However, virtually limitless options can make it harder to choose, so here are some of our favorite bathtub cleaning products. 

One versatile brand that we love here at Spekless is Bar Keepers Friends. Our favorite is the Soft Cleanser, which is perfect for bathtubs and will quickly get rid of scum, rust, and build-ups without leaving any streaks. Paired with a microfiber cloth, cleaning your bathtub will never have been easier! If you prefer a powdered form, grab their original Cleanser (developed back in 1882!). To use it, wet your bathtub, then sprinkle on a little bit of the Cleanser and wait. Rub it with a sponge, then rinse it off and dry. 

Another product perfect for cleaning your bathtub would be the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (ideally the Extra Durable formation). One of the benefits of Mr. Clean is that you don’t need anything besides the Magic Eraser and water to get your tub clean: simply wet the sponge, squeeze out any extra water, and start scrubbing—the Magic Eraser will do the rest. However, depending on how dirty your tub is, you may not be up to scrubbing the entirety of it for several minutes.

Finally, if you’re looking for a budget cleaning product or simply prefer a more natural cleaning alternative, all you need to do is grab a spray bottle and fill it with an equal solution of 1-part vinegar to 1-part dish soap (we prefer Dawn!). If you’re not a huge fan of the smell of vinegar, you can mask the smell with a few drops of your favorite essential oil (such as lavender).

Make sure you scrubbers that have metal parts, as many bathtubs could be sensitive to them, leaving permanent scratches. When possible, use a sponge or cleaning cloth, as well as a soft cleaning brush. If possible, invest in a grout brush to get rid of more stubborn stains, and pick up a bottle tile cleaner as well. 

Finally, wear gloves to avoid exposing your hands to harsher chemicals, and make sure to open your window or get some ventilation if possible so you don’t breathe in all the cleaning chemicals! 

2. Empty your bathtub and clean the surround. First things first, take everything out of your bath tub—and that means everything from kids’ toys to loofahs! Wipe down anything that might have soap scum built up, and then place them elsewhere while you clean.

To get started, you should deep clean the walls and tiles around your bathtub. With either a general cleaner or special cleaner and a cloth, buff your walls to eliminate any soap scum, dirt, or other debris on your wall. For tiles, just use a tile cleaner and sponge (or cloth!). During your deep clean, use a grout brush and bleach—as long as you have plenty of ventilation. Once you’re done, give your walls and tiles a good rinse using clean water to get rid of any residue, and the first step is done!

3. Make sure your drain works properly. Before you get down and dirty with cleaning your bathtub, you should be sure that your drain isn’t clogged. All you need to do is pour around a half cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. After waiting for about 5 minutes for the bubbling to reduce, flush it out with about 30 seconds of hot water. For best results, repeat monthly.

4. Clean the interior. Next, apply or spray your preferred cleaner onto your tub and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. You can use any of the products we mentioned earlier, or whichever cleaner you prefer the most. After you’re done waiting, wipe down your tub with a cloth and rinse thoroughly. 

5. Get rid of soap scum and stains. It’s not uncommon to have several stains remain after you’re done with a superficial clean. For soap scum, you can use a gentle cleaning brush, or just grab an old toothbrush you aren’t using to scrub them away.

If you have tougher stains that you need to get rid of, you can use a scrub brush and a special cleanser and scrub away for a while longer. Alternatively, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water, spray it on the stains, and then sprinkle on some baking soda. After it stops bubbling, scrub with a sponge, wait a few more minutes, then wipe it off and rinse thoroughly. If necessary, repeat again.

6. Rinse and wipe down. After everything has been fully rinsed, dry off your bathtub and buff it with a clean towel, making sure to not leave any excess water behind. Leave your window and/or ventilation open for at least a half hour to clear out any unwanted odors of cleaning fluids, and if you feel like it, add an air freshener or incense stick to make your bathroom smell more natural. Voila! 

Extra Hacks For Cleaning Your Bathtub (And Keeping It Clean!)

• Do you have a tougher stain that you’re having trouble getting rid of? Usually, there’s no need to buy expensive, specialized products! Our go-to DIY recipe is to make a paste of 1-part hydrogen peroxide to 2 parts baking soda. Then, apply the paste to your stain for at least 30 minutes—so you’ll want to do this at the end of the cleaning process. Wipe the stain and rinse gently. If it’s still not fully gone, repeat once more.  
• Not sure how often you should clean your bathtub? This depends entirely on how often you use it. If you have a shower/tub combo that you shower in daily, we’d recommend a routine clean weekly, with a deep clean monthly. If your tub is separate and you only use it for special occasions, just wipe it down after each use (see our last hack in this section!) and give it a routine clean on a monthly basis. However, if you notice water stains, rust, mold, or mildew forming, bring out the cleaning ingredients ASAP.
• Don’t mix cleaning products! Bleach and ammonia, when combined, will create highly dangerous and toxic chlorine gas. Even small amounts can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, while larger amounts are fatal. (In fact, chlorine gas was used during both World Wars.) Generally, avoid having too many cleaning products in your rotation: one or two products is usually all that you’ll need, and make sure to keep the place well ventilated!
• Want to avoid having to clean your bathtub so often? Easy! Make sure you thoroughly rinse the surface of you tub after a bath so that no soap stays behind, and get rid of extra moisture to prevent unnecessary buildup of substances like soap scum or mildew. To do so, simply wipe down your tub to make sure it’s fully dry. Use a clean, dry cloth (preferably microfiber), and don’t reuse it again. If possible, open your window to get rid of extra humidity. 

And that’s it! With our tips and hacks on how to best clean your bathtub, we’re pretty confident that keeping your bathtub clean has never been this easier, no matter how often you use it!

Why Should You Clean Your Bathtub, Anyways? 

If we’re honest, nobody’s super excited about having to clean their bathtub. Here’s the deal: failing to regularly deep clean your bathtub can lead to lots of health hazards, including: 

• Mildew and mold: Not only do these spores and fungi look gross, they can pose health risks! Mold thrives on warm, damp places high in humidity (in other words, your bathroom), and while a little bit of it isn’t dangerous, this can quickly lead to rotting fabric or permanent stains on your tub and other bathroom fixtures! Additionally, many people are either sensitive or allergic to mold, which could lead to symptoms such as skin rashes, coughing, hives, and even respiratory issues such as asthma attacks for those more seriously affected. 
• Infections: If there’s one place in your room that’s home to countless bacteria, it’s your bathroom. From using the toilet to brushing your teeth to taking a shower, you easily contribute to the spread of bacteria inside it. In fact, if you have a shower curtain for your bathtub, your shower curtain and shower floor could have as much as 60 times the amount of bacteria your toilet seat has! And with thousands of bacteria thriving in your dirty bathtub, you could easily transfer the bacteria to open cuts, sores, or wounds, which could cause a staph infection.
• Soap scums: Sure, soap is great while you’re taking a shower or drawing up a bath, but what about after? Not properly rinsing out your tub could lead to film developing in your tub, or even on your shower curtain or walls. Over time, the build-up, together with mold and mildew, lead to nasty stains and smells. 

Finally, if you aren’t cleaning your bathtub, you’re probably not cleaning the other parts of your bathroom. From the sink to your cabinets to your toilet, your bathroom should be cleaned regularly. So once you start with our easy tips on cleaning your tub, why not keep the rest of your bathroom sparkly clean? 

Spekless House Cleaning for Your Bathtub

Now that you can get into the habit of cleaning your bathtub, it’s easy to just move on to other parts of your bathroom and keep them spick-and-span. However, at Spekless, we completely understand that not everyone has the time, energy, or willingness to dedicate so much time to cleaning. Maybe you’re not sure which cleaning products are best to deep clean your bathtub. Perhaps you’d rather dedicate one day to cleaning your studio apartment or home but just don’t have time. Or maybe you simply suffer from aches or pains, making it harder to clean up after yourself. Whatever it is, we completely understand where you’re coming from. 

That’s why Spekless offers custom-tailored, 100% flexible deep cleaning services so you can have a fully clean house without having to do the work yourself! Whether you need your bathtub and bathroom cleaned weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly, our professional deep cleaners will work around the schedule to give you the clean bathtub you deserve.

To learn more about our professional cleaning services, get in touch today!