The Complete Guide to Cleaning Your Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Approach for Every Tub Type

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.

  1. Wet the sponge with warm water and apply a small amount of the non-abrasive cleaner to the sponge.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
white ceramic toilet bowl beside pedestal sink

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.

  1. 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.
  2. Fill your tub with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap or a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner to the water.
  3. 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.
  4. Once you have finished cleaning the tub, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue or cleaning solution.
  5. 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.

white ceramic bathtub near white ceramic bathtub

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.

white bathtub with white bathtub

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.

Free Round White and Gray Ceramic Bathtub Inside Brown Room Stock Photo

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Keep Your Kitchen Under Control With a Cleaning Checklist

The best way to clean any room in the house is to come up with a weekly cleaning routine to help you clean it easily and effectively. We were selected by Redfin as a top cleaning expert! See the article we were featured in: Kitchen Cleaning 101: Experts Share Their Favorite Tips

Today we’re going to walk you through the best way to clean your kitchen in a few simple steps.

First things first, before you begin you’ll want to gather all of your cleaning supplies so that you’ll have everything you need handy. After you’ve gathered your supplies you can start the kitchen cleaning process.

Dust everything from top to bottom

You want to start the kitchen cleaning process by dusting everything from top to bottom. Working from top to bottom prevents you from having to redo any work you’ve previously done. And while you’re doing this you’ll want to remove any trash from the countertops (and other places that it doesn’t belong) so that you can move on to checkpoint number two. 

Take out the trash 

Next you’ll go around and pick up and trash or spoiled food and throw it away before taking out the trash. Nothing more to it, this step is pretty simple.

Do the dishes & clean the sink

Now you can start to do the dishes by either washing them and setting them out to try or rinsing them and putting them in the dishwasher. Once you’re finished with the dishes you can start to work on your sink (cleaning the sink is an important part of kitchen cleaning). Spray it down and let it disinfect for about 4 to five minutes before scrubbing it down and rinsing it with hot water.

Disinfect all surfaces 

Once you’ve dusted, taken out the trash, done the dishes, and cleaned the sink you can now start to disinfect and clean all the touchable surfaces in your kitchen. This is your countertops, your microwave, drawer handles and knobs, the handles on your refrigerator (and the outside of it), and anything else that you or your family may have touched. Go around and spray the surfaces with your disinfectant and allow it to sit for at least 1 minute before taking your cleaning cloth to it.

Clean the floor

The very last thing you want to do when cleaning any room in the house (but especially the kitchen) is clean the floors. You’ll work from the inside of the room to the outside of the room when sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping the floor so that you don’t have to backtrack.

And that’s really all there is to it when it comes to kitchen cleaning. The more you settle into a cleaning routine the easier it is to clean it each week.

Professional kitchen cleaning

Need help cleaning the kitchen in your home? Contact us today and see how one of our professional house cleaners can assist you.

4 Mistakes That Can Slow Down Your Household Cleaning

We know that when you are cleaning your home, you to get your household cleaning done as fast as possible. No one wants to spend their entire weekend cleaning. But are there things that you’re overlooking that are causing you to work harder than you should? Here we’re lining out four mistakes that can actually slow you down when cleaning.


1. Forgetting the top to bottom rule

So many people forget the top to bottom rule when it comes time to clean. If you vacuum before you dust you’re just making more work for yourself in the long run, which is inevitably slowing down your household cleaning. Work from the top of the room to the bottom to prevent having to go back and re-clean what you just cleaned. 


2. Failing to clean your supplies

Dirty mops and cloths are used to clean up dirt. So it’s only rational to clean them when you’re finished in order to prevent the spread of bacteria from one cleaning to the next. You can clean a dirty surface with dirty supplies. It only slows you down.

3. Not rinsing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher

Many homeowners will swear that you don’t need to pre-wash your dishes before putting them into the dishwasher. While that may be true, you still need to scrap off the leftover food and give them a quick and thorough rinse. Otherwise, you’re just making more work for yourself when you end up having to wash them when they’re done in the dishwasher.

4. Cleaning without a routine

Cleaning routines are such a vital part of household cleaning. If you don’t have an adequate cleaning routine each week you could end up spending more time cleaning than you would like on the weekends. This will help you clean faster and more efficient without slowing you down in the long haul.

5 Genius Household Cleaning Hacks That Will Blow Your Mind

Looking for some new and fresh ideas to help you spice up your household cleaning routine? Look no further.

Here are five genius household cleaning hacks that every homeowner needs:

1. Freshen up your sink with baking soda

Is there a bad smell coming from your sink or garbage disposal? Have you tried every chemical in your cleaning closet to get rid of it? Try sprinkling a little bit of baking soda down the drain. Baking soda is a natural odor eliminator and it will help get rid of any bad smells coming from the sink.


2. Soak your burners in ammonia 

Having trouble cleaning the burners on your stove? You’ve soaked them in every cleaner imaginable and they’re still not coming clean? Try soaking them in ammonia (which you can find in the cleaning supply aisle at the store) for a couple of hours. Once they’ve had a chance to soak in ammonia for a few hours they should wipe away completely clean. 


3. Get those baseboards with a dryer sheet

Baseboards are everyone’s least favorite household chore, we get it. But that’s only because it’s a pain to clean them, until now. Stick a dryer sheet on the end of your broom and run it along the edges of your baseboards. Not only will this help you dust them, but it’ll also help fresh things up a bit too.

4. Pop a bowl of vinegar in the microwave to clean it

This is possibly one of our favorite household cleaning hacks out there. Take a little bowl (one that is microwave safe) and add a half a cup of white cleaning vinegar to it and then pop it in the microwave on high for 3-5 minutes. Once the microwave goes off, let it sit for 2 minutes before removing the bowl and wiping the microwave completely clean. No more scrubbing away hard, stuck-on food.

5. Run vinegar through the coffee pot

The coffee pot is probably one of the most neglected household appliances in your house. Of course, you use it every day, but how often are you actually cleaning it? Fill the pot with vinegar and run it through the coffee machine at night before you go to bed. This will help with the mineral build-up inside the coffee pot and it will make your coffee taste better.

Bonus Hack


6. Contact Spekless for help

Behind every squeaky clean home is a professional house cleaner that helps them make it happen. Whether you need help with once a month deep cleaning or routine weekly cleaning we’ve got you covered. Contact us today for a free estimate and to see how our professional house cleaners can help you achieve the goals of your household.

Living Room Cleaning Tips

The living room is often the center focal point of ones home. It’s often known as the family room. This is where the family gathers after a long day, where you visit with friends and family, and where you enjoy the holidays. Because of that, it’s important to keep a clean living room. Today we’re sharing living room cleaning tips that will help you get your living room on the right track.

Living room cleaning tips

Declutter

The first thing you want to do when cleaning your living room is to make sure that it’s not cluttered. A lot of times people confuse clutter with dirt. Just because something is cluttered, doesn’t mean it’s dirty. So first things first, declutter your living room. Make sure everything has a home and if it doesn’t toss it in the donate pile.

Dust

Next thing you’ll do is go through and make sure everything is dusted. Grab your microfiber cleaning rag and dusting spray and wipe down any wood furniture, shelving, blinds, end or coffee tables, etc. This is also the time to go around and disinfect any surfaces that need disinfecting such as the remotes and the tables.

Divide

After you’ve decluttered and dusted, nows the time to divide and conquer. By that I mean, work section by section cleaning the windows, washing any upholstery covers, changing out any air fresheners, and cleaning the floors. It’s best to work from the inside of the living room out.

Need help cleaning your living room?

The key to a clean house is keeping consistency. That means you’ll need to clean often. We know this can be hard to do when you have a career and a family to take care of. Which is why we’re here to help. Our professional house cleaners live for this type of work. It’s what we’re here for. Contact us today for a free service estimate.

 

4 Unique Household Cleaning Hacks

Learning how to clean your house using innovative cleaning hacks can save you a lot of time and energy in the long run. Today we are going to show you how to clean your house using things you already have and things you probably didn’t know you could clean with.

Cold Water Cleaning Hack

Try treating fresh stains like barbecue sauce stains using cool water. Using hot water to treat a stain is a common myth. Water that is super cold or hot can press the stain further into the surface. Using cool (not cold) water works wonders as a pre-treatment. Just pour the cool water on the stain and soak it up with a towel before putting the item in the washer.

Showerhead Cleaning Hack

Classic buildup on your shower head can easily be cleaned using vinegar. Yes, the vinegar you have in your kitchen pantry can remove limescale and soap scum from your showerhead. Just unscrew your showerhead and let it soak in pure vinegar for 30 minutes or so and that’s it! If your showerhead doesn’t come off, fill a sandwich bag or small grocery bag full of vinegar and tie it to the shower head until it’s fully immersed. 

Dish Wand Cleaning Hack

Did you know that your dish wand is the perfect cleaning tool for more than just your dishes? Using the interchangeable sponges your dish wand can be used for a variety of tasks around the house including showers, tubs, and toilets. Just fill it with a solution of half dish soap-half vinegar to help fight soap scum and toilet stains. And voila! You’ve got the ultimate cleaning tool.

Grease Stain Cleaning Hack

Aside from vinegar, cornstarch is another must-have pantry item that’s good to keep on hand for certain stain emergencies. Cornstarch works wonders as a pre-treatment for treating grease stains. Pour cornstarch over the entire grease stain and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Then wipe away using cool water (or vacuum depending on the surface).

Need Help?

There’s always help when you need it. Finding time to clean your household each and every day can be difficult. But there’s help available. Here at Spekless, we offer one-time and routine cleaning services to help you achieve the needs of your household. Contact us today for a free estimate

The Importance of Dusting When You Have Allergies

Dusting with allergies

Allergies are the worst. Anyone who suffers from them will tell you just how inconvenient they are. There are many things can cause an allergic reaction but one of them is the dust and dirt in your house. Things like mold, dust, dust mites and pet dander are often triggers for allergy sufferers which is why dusting when you have allergies is important. 

In efforts to help you allergy-proof your home, it’s recommended that you dust your home on a regular basis. In fact, The Mayo Clinic recommends having a weekly dusting routine. Once you establish a frequent cleaning routine the easier it will be to control and reduce household allergies.

Preventing allergies

Next to the importance of dusting with allergies, you also want to make sure you’re working to prevent further irritation. One of the ways you can do this is by committing to a weekly routine. A routine that consists of removing specks of dust from all surfaces, shaking out all rugs, vacuuming floors using a HEPA filter, and mopping any hard floors.

Other tips & tricks

  • Replace your HVAC air filters with HEPA air filters 
  • Check air ducts monthly for dust build-up and clean if needed
  • Vacuum and steam clean carpets every four to six months
  • Take down and wash drapes and curtains every couple of months
  • Use a HEPA air purifier in the home
  • Keep the temperature of the house 70⁰ F or below and dry (relative humidity at 50% or below) to create an indoor environment that’s less hospitable for dust mites and mold spores

Get a quote

Naturally, our professionally trained house cleaners can proactively take care of the dust in your home so you have fewer allergens. And so you have more time to do the things you enjoy. Call (571) 882 2712 or click here to contact us for a free estimate. We were maid for this!
How to Clean Your Shower Curtain

Notice some aging or molding on your shower curtain? Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you need to throw it away. You may not have the money to replace your shower curtain right now. If that’s the case, you can easily clean it and have it back to new in no time!

Cleaning the liner

You can’t clean your shower curtain properly without cleaning the liner. To clean your shower liner simply take the liner off and throw it in the washer using a mesh laundry bag. If you clean the liner without a mesh laundry bag be sure to throw a towel in with it to help clean it and prevent any damage. Either way, you can clean the liner at home and save a few bucks!

Cleaning the curtain

Using the same mesh laundry bag (if it’s big enough) throw your shower curtain in the washing machine using a mild detergent, a cup of vinegar, and warm water. Once the cycle is complete you can hang your shower curtain to air dry. Or you can also clean your shower curtain using a microfiber cloth and some white vinegar.

Cleaning the rings

In order to clean your shower curtain completely, you’ll also want to clean the rings that hold it up. While you’re washing the curtain and the liner you can begin cleaning the rings. Since these rings, are exposed to soap scum and dust it’s important to give them a good cleaning every so often. Grab a bowl (or use your bathroom sink) and fill it with hot steamy water and a cup of white vinegar. Let the rings sit for at least 30 minutes before rinsing off and wiping away any limescale or stuck on soap scum.

Need any help cleaning the bathrooms in your household?

While our professional cleaners here at Spekless don’t clean shower curtains during our scheduled cleanings, we can clean your bathroom from top to bottom. This includes your shower walls, the inside of your tub, the sink, mirror, countertops, tile floor, and the toilet. We’ve got you covered!  

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