If you use your bathtub every day, then your tub will increasingly get dirtier as the days go on.
This article will explain how to properly clean your specific bathtub. Whether it’s acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain-enameled, or stone resin, it’s important to scrub your tub.
What Type of Bathtub Do You Have?
Acrylic or Fiberglass Bathtub
The first test you can do is to press on the side of your bathtub. If there’s some give you probably have either a fiberglass or acrylic tub. Both materials look similar but because acrylic is a bit more durable, the chances of fading and cracks are rare. If you notice color fading or cracks you can assume your tub is made of fiberglass.
Porcelain-Enameled Bathtub
An easy way to know if you have a porcelain-enameled bathtub is the magnet test. Enamel bathtubs are made of metal so if you hold a magnet up to your bathtub and it sticks, you have an enamel tub.
Stone Resin Bathtub
You will probably know if you have a stone resin bathtub as you most likely paid a premium for it. If not, stone resin bathtubs have a very natural and beautiful look and feel.
How to Clean Your Tub
Fiberglass Bathtub
Fiberglass bathtubs are made of small interwoven glass strings heated together and then molded and finished with a resin gel coat. It’s one of the more affordable bathtubs you can buy and will last you 10-15 years.
- Start by mixing two parts vinegar and one part water into a spray bottle. Spray the entire tub and allow the solution to sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Using a soft cloth, remove visible dirt and scum from the tub
- Rinse the tub and use a microfiber cloth to remove any leftover solution.
- For tougher stains, use a paste made from vinegar and baking soda, or use a rag soaked with hydrogen peroxide to sit directly on the stain for up to one hour. Rinse thoroughly.
Acrylic Bathtub
Acrylic tubs are sheets of clear plastic reinforced with layers of fiberglass. Acrylic tubs are a popular option as they are very durable and can last 10-15 years.
- Sprinkle baking soda throughout your tub and allow this to sit for 5-10 minutes
- Using a soft rag or sponge, scrub the baking soda into the tub, including the faucets
- Rinse the tub and wipe it down clean.
- For tougher stains, fill the tub with hot water and then add two cups of vinegar. Let sit for about 15 minutes and then drain. The vinegar will help to break up the stain without damaging the acrylic. Then begin the baking soda process outlined in step #1 above.
Porcelain-Enameled Bathtub
Porcelain-enameled tubs, sometimes referred to as enameled steel, is another relatively inexpensive option but popular for their durability. The tub is made of a full sheet of steel and finished with porcelain enamel.
Before you start the all-over deep cleaning, cover any stains with salt and then squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the salt. Using a clean rag or soft sponge, scrub the mixture over the stain.
If it still does not come out, leave the paste mixture on the stain for one hour, then add a bit more lemon juice and try scrubbing again. Let this sit for one hour and then scrub this into the stain
- Add equal amounts of warm water, baking soda, and ammonia into a bucket and mix
- Dip a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge into the bucket and scrub your tub thoroughly. Don’t neglect the faucets
- Rinse the tub and wipe clean!
For weekly cleaning of your porcelain-enameled tub, mix a gallon of hot water with a few tablespoons of dish soap. Use a soft rag or sponge to scrub the tub’s entire surface. Rinse well.
Stone Resin Bathtub
Stone resin bathtubs are made of real stone that is crushed up and bound by polymer resin. It is very durable and resistant to stains and scratches. If you take care and properly clean a stone resin bathtub it will remain a truly high-quality piece in your bathroom.
- Mix a mild dish detergent, such as Ivory Liquid, and water into your bathtub
- Use a cloth to scrub the tub, getting rid of any unwanted stains. For tougher stains, use a mild cream-based cleanser to work on those resistant spots.
- Rinse and wipe down thoroughly to prevent any streaks from forming
If you choose to use a store-bought cleaner, you will need to know the finish of your stone resin tub. If your tub has a matte finish then your tub can tolerate mildly abrasive cream cleansers but if your tub’s finish is a semi-gloss then you cannot use a gritty or abrasive cleanser. One final tip, do not use an acidic cleaner, such as vinegar, as they will corrode the stone resin.
Conclusion
Regardless of the bathtub you own, cleaning is essential. Your bathtub’s purpose is to keep you clean, and if it’s dirty then it cannot easily accomplish its purpose. Setting aside 30 minutes once in a while to scrub down your tub is well worth your investment.
If you need extra motivation to polish your tub, download our app Dirtfree to keep you on top of your cleaning!
