You’ve probably experienced this before: after a long day, you want to relax in a clean, inviting bathtub, but instead of a relaxing soak, you’re met with a bathtub that’s seen better days.
Don’t stress—it’s easier to fix than you think! This guide will walk you through steps to get your tub sparkling clean so you can enjoy that well-deserved bath without any hassle.
What to avoid when cleaning your bathtub
If you don’t already know this, here’s what not to use. Avoid abrasive scrubbers like steel wool—they can scratch the surface. Also, harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can damage the finish and leave behind fumes.
Stick with milder, tub-friendly cleaners to keep things looking great without the risk.
Cleaning supplies you’ll need
Before diving into the cleaning process, grab these supplies:
- Non-abrasive cleaner: Pick one that’s suitable for your tub’s material, whether acrylic, porcelain, or fiberglass.
- A soft sponge or microfiber cloth: No harsh scrubbing here; keep it gentle.
- A toothbrush or small scrub brush: To reach into grout lines and small spaces.
- Rubber gloves: To protect your hands.
- Bucket: For mixing and rinsing.
- Microfiber cloth: To dry the tub and prevent streaks.
Pro-tip: Want to try a natural alternative? Use white vinegar mixed with baking soda!
5-step guide to clean your bathtub
Step #1. Get the cleaning area ready
Remove anything from around the tub, like bath mats and shower caddies. This gives you a clear area to work with.
Step #2. Apply your cleaner of choice
Spray your chosen cleaner generously over the tub. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to break down the grime.
If you choose baking soda and vinegar, sprinkle baking soda across the tub. Then, mix two parts vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle and apply over the bathtub—it will make a fizzing reaction. Let it sit on your tub for 15 to 20 minutes.
Step #3. Scrub the tub gently
Use your soft sponge or cloth to scrub in circular motions. Focus on the spots with more grime. Rinse your sponge often to keep it clean and avoid spreading dirt.
Step #4. Rinse your bathtub well
After scrubbing, rinse the tub thoroughly with warm water. You can use a bucket or handheld showerhead to make sure all the cleaner is washed away.
Step #5. Dry the tub
Wipe down the tub with an old towel or cloth to remove excess water and prevent streaks. This also gives your tub a nice, polished look.
How to clean your bathtub drain
A clean drain is key to preventing odors and ensuring smooth drainage after every bath. Here’s how to keep it clean:
- Clear Out Debris: If your drain cover is removable, take it off and clean out any hair or soap scum. Tweezers or a small tool work well for this.
- Use vinegar and baking soda: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of white vinegar down the drain. Let it fizz and sit for about 15 minutes. Rinse with hot water to flush everything out.
- Regular Maintenance: To keep your drain in good shape, repeat this cleaning every few weeks and use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris.
Let Cascade Maids handle the cleaning!
Tired of cleaning? Let us take care of it! From tubs to the whole house, our team of cleaning experts has all the skills to make every room sparkle. Book with us today and enjoy a spotless home without the hassle!
