What to Get Before You Start
Before you tackle the dirt and grime, you’re going to need some supplies to get the job done:
Household cleaning gloves Face mask or respirator Safety glasses Baking soda White vinegar Lemon juice Dish soap Bleach Microfiber cloth Sponge Scrub brush Toilet bowl cleaner Spray bottle Bucket
Before you begin cleaning, it’s a good idea to put your rubber gloves and safety glasses on. If using bleach, don a mask or respirator and run the bathroom fan to protect your lungs.
How to Deep-Clean a Bathtub
Depending on what your tub is made of, with a little vinegar, baking soda, bleach, or toilet bowl cleaner, you can scrub away the soap scum and dirt that’s collected in it.
How to Clean an Acrylic Tub
Harsh cleaners can dull the finish on acrylic tubs. Luckily, there’s a solution: a mixture of dish soap, baking soda, and lemon juice. The baking soda acts as an aggregate for breaking up the soap scum.
How to Clean a Porcelain or Fiberglass Tub with Vinegar
Vinegar is an excellent household cleaner and disinfectant. It does an excellent job on dirty porcelain and fiberglass tubs, though it can be too harsh for an acrylic tub.
How to Clean a Bathtub with Bleach
If the tub you’re cleaning is especially soiled, you may have to take your cleaning efforts up a notch with bleach. Keep in mind that you’ll want to wear a face mask or respirator, safety glasses, and gloves when working with bleach. Also, some acrylic tub manufacturers warn against using bleach in their tubs, stating that it will void the warranty. Bleach is safe on fiberglass or white porcelain.
How to Clean Mold and Mildew in a Bathtub
Mold and mildew can be tough to remove, but here’s a helpful trick: Use gel toilet bowl cleaner with bleach. The gels in these products cling to the mold and break it down. Those cleaning tips should help you renew your bathtub’s bright, smooth finish. With the right recipe and a little bit of elbow grease, your bathtub can be the centerpiece of your bathroom once more.
