A clean bathtub is an essential part of any home. With proper cleaning and upkeep, you can maintain a hygienic and inviting environment in your bathroom. However, different types of tubs require different cleaning methods to prevent damage to the material. In this ultimate guide, we will provide a step-by-step approach to cleaning every type of bathtub, so you can keep your tub looking its best.
Porcelain enameled steel bathtubs are a popular choice among homeowners because they offer both durability and ease of maintenance. When it comes to cleaning, these tubs require minimal effort and can be kept sparkling clean with just a few simple steps.
To begin cleaning a porcelain enameled steel bathtub, gather the necessary supplies. You will need a soft sponge, a non-abrasive cleaner, and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or steel wool pads that can scratch or damage the surface of the tub.
- Wet the sponge with warm water and apply a small amount of the non-abrasive cleaner to the sponge.
- Begin wiping the tub in a circular motion, working your way from the top of the tub down to the bottom. This will help ensure that you don’t miss any spots or leave streaks behind.
- Pay special attention to any areas with visible stains or buildup. For tough stains, you can use a paste made of baking soda and water to gently scrub the area with the soft sponge. However, avoid using harsher chemicals or tools that can damage the enamel.
- Once you’ve cleaned the entire tub, rinse it thoroughly with water, making sure to remove all traces of the cleaning solution. Any leftover residue can leave behind a dull film, which can be unappealing and difficult to remove.
- Finally, use a clean towel to dry the surface of the tub. This will help prevent any water spots from forming and leave the porcelain enameled steel looking shiny and new.
Acrylic bathtubs are a popular choice among homeowners due to their lightweight, sleek design, and availability in various colors and styles. However, acrylic tubs require proper cleaning and maintenance to prevent scratches and damage to their surface. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your acrylic bathtub effectively.
- Gather the necessary materials for cleaning your acrylic bathtub. You will need a soft sponge, a non-abrasive cleaner, and warm water. Avoid using abrasive sponges, steel wool pads, or any cleaning products that contain ammonia or bleach, as they can cause damage to the surface of your acrylic tub.
- Fill your tub with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap or a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner to the water.
- Using a soft sponge or cloth, clean the entire surface of the tub in a circular motion. Be sure to clean the corners and the edges of the tub thoroughly.
- Once you have finished cleaning the tub, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue or cleaning solution.
- Use a soft cloth or towel to dry the tub. Avoid using a rough or abrasive cloth, as it can scratch the surface of the acrylic tub. Once the tub is dry, you can add a protective coat of wax to the surface to help prevent future scratches or damage.
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s essential to maintain your acrylic bathtub by avoiding harsh chemicals or cleaning products. Also, it’s important to be careful with the type of objects you put in the tub to prevent scratches or damage to the surface. Avoid placing metal objects or heavy items on the surface of your acrylic bathtub, as they can cause scratches and damage.
Fiberglass bathtubs are popular for their affordability and ease of installation. However, they are also known to be more prone to scratches and stains than other types of tubs if not cleaned and maintained properly. Fortunately, keeping your fiberglass bathtub clean is not difficult with the right approach.
To start, gather the necessary cleaning materials. You will need a soft sponge, a non-abrasive cleaner, and warm water. It’s important to avoid using abrasive sponges, steel wool pads, or any cleaning product that contains bleach, as these can cause damage to the surface of the tub.
When it comes to cleaning your fiberglass bathtub, a gentle touch is key. Start by wetting the surface of the tub with warm water. Then, apply the non-abrasive cleaner to the sponge and use a circular motion to gently scrub the surface of the tub. Pay special attention to areas with visible stains or build-up.
Once you have finished scrubbing the tub, rinse thoroughly with water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Be sure to rinse well, as any leftover cleaning product can leave a residue or cause the tub to become slippery. Finally, use a clean towel to dry the tub and remove any remaining water spots.
It’s also important to note that preventative maintenance is crucial to keeping your fiberglass bathtub looking its best. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as these can scratch the surface of the tub. You can also consider applying a protective wax or polish to the surface of the tub to help repel water and prevent stains.
In addition to regular cleaning and maintenance, you can also take steps to prevent damage to your fiberglass bathtub. For example, avoid using bath mats with suction cups, as they can scratch the surface of the tub. Instead, opt for a non-slip mat or install non-slip strips on the bottom of the tub.
Enameled cast iron bathtubs are known for their durability and longevity. They are made of a heavy-duty material that can last for decades with proper maintenance. However, they can be easily scratched or damaged if cleaned with harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
To clean an enameled cast iron bathtub, start by filling the tub with hot water and adding a small amount of dish soap. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen any dirt or grime. Then, use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe the entire surface of the tub in a circular motion, taking care to remove any stubborn stains or build-up. Avoid using abrasive sponges or steel wool pads that can scratch the surface of the tub.
After cleaning, rinse the tub thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining soap residue. You can also use a soft-bristled brush to reach difficult areas or to clean around the drain and overflow. Finally, dry the tub with a clean towel to prevent water spots or streaks.
For stubborn stains or discoloration, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it gently with a soft sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel.
It’s also essential to avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners that can damage the enamel surface of the tub. Always use a non-abrasive cleaner, and test it on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire tub. With proper care and maintenance, your enameled cast iron bathtub can last for years to come.
Bathtubs Made of Cast Polymers (Like Cultured Marble, Granite or Onyx) If your bathtub is made of cast polymers like cultured marble, granite, or onyx, you will want to be extra careful during the cleaning process. These materials are often softer than other bathtub materials and can scratch easily. To clean cast polymer bathtubs, follow these steps:
- Clean with Mild Soap and Warm Water – Begin by cleaning the surface of your cast polymer bathtub with a mild soap and warm water. Be sure to use a non-abrasive cleaning pad or soft cloth to avoid any damage to the surface. Avoid using any cleaning products that are acidic or contain bleach, as these can cause discoloration and other damage to the surface.
- Rinse with Clean Water – After cleaning the surface, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Be sure to dry the surface with a clean, soft cloth to avoid any water spots.
- Use a Non-Abrasive Cleaner for Stubborn Stains – For stubborn stains or discoloration, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for use on cast polymer surfaces. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid using any abrasive cleaning tools, as these can cause damage to the surface.
Things To Avoid When Cleaning Your Bathtub
While it’s important to clean your bathtub regularly, there are some things you should avoid doing during the cleaning process to prevent damage to the surface. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners and Tools – Using abrasive cleaners or tools can cause damage to the surface of your bathtub. This is especially important to keep in mind if you have a bathtub made of a softer material like cast polymer or acrylic. Stick to non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths to avoid any scratches or other damage.
- Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals – Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can cause damage to the surface of your bathtub, as well as create fumes that can be harmful to your health. Stick to mild soaps and cleaners, and avoid using any products that contain strong chemicals.
- Don’t Use Sponges or Scrub Brushes – Sponges and scrub brushes can also cause damage to the surface of your bathtub, especially if you use them with abrasive cleaners. Stick to non-abrasive cleaning pads and soft cloths to avoid any damage.
- Don’t Let Stains Sit Too Long – If you notice a stain or discoloration on your bathtub, don’t let it sit too long before addressing it. The longer a stain sits, the harder it can be to remove. Try to clean any stains or discoloration as soon as you notice them to prevent them from becoming more stubborn.
Conclusion Cleaning your bathtub may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s an important part of keeping your bathroom clean and hygienic. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that your bathtub stays looking its best for years to come. Whether you have a porcelain enameled steel bathtub, an acrylic bathtub, a fiberglass bathtub, an enameled cast iron bathtub, or a bathtub made of cast polymers like cultured marble, granite, or onyx, there are specific steps you can take to keep it clean and looking great. Remember to avoid abrasive cleaners and tools, harsh chemicals, sponges and scrub brushes, and to address any stains or discoloration as soon as you notice them. With a little bit of regular maintenance and care, your bathtub can continue to be a relaxing and enjoyable part of your home.
Here’s what you’ll need:
After you’ve removed all or any bath mats or rugs from the bathroom you can start your cleaning checklist by emptying the trash. This is also when you’ll want to remove any dirty laundry and anything on the countertops.
Next, take your duster and work from top to bottom dusting the entire bathroom. Dust any light fixtures, the top of the medicine cabinet, the back of the toilet, etc.
Now spray everything down with your bathroom cleaner slash disinfectant. This is your tub, sinks, toilet, and counterspace. It’s also a good idea to spray your trash can down too. They can get a little dirty sometimes. Once you’ve sprayed them, let the solution sit for at least two minutes before moving on to the next step.
Taking your microfiber cloth, wipe down all surfaces you just sprayed. If your bathtub needs a little TLC, take your bathroom cleaner and spray it again and then use your sponge to help remove some of the soap scum and grime from it. Once that’s done you can take your glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth and wipe down the mirror before heading to the last step.
Pro Tip: After you’ve wiped down your surfaces take a dry microfiber cloth to buff and shine the surfaces.
Finish up your bathroom cleaning checklist by vacuuming and mopping your floors from the inner corner out. It’s best to use a microfiber mop on the bathroom floor to really make it shine.
