When you bathe in a clearly filthy tub, it doesn’t always sound like you’re getting clean, in spite of all the soap and water you’re using. You should then periodically clean a bathtub to keep the surface grime at bay, and then give it a deeper scrubbing at least once a month to make sure it is thoroughly clean.
Having your tub clear of limescale, soap scum, mineral deposits and dirt can seem like a tough task, but you can get your bathroom squeaky clean in just a few steps.
How Often to Clean a Bathtub?
In certain cases, the duration of bathtub cleaning is an invitation to judgement. A tub that is regularly used by four people in a single-bathroom home would need to be cleaned more often than a tub that is occasionally used by someone who lives alone.
Offer it a cleaning once a week if you use the bath regularly, and a deep cleaning which has a lot of scrubbing strength behind it once a month.
What You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools
• Grout brush
• Cleaning cloths or sponges
• Old toothbrush or small cleaning brush materials
• Tile cleaner
• All-purpose spray or bathroom cleaner
How to Clean a Bathtub?
Before cleaning do your due diligence to ensure you have the best items for your particular bathroom. For starters, if your bath is acrylic, be careful not to damage any metal parts with scrubbers. And bathtubs with enamel can be damaged by using the wrong form of a brush.
You may also like to read: ” How to arrange your washroom? “
Wear gloves to cover your hands and ears, and ventilate the bathroom if you’re using lung health cleaning items.
1. Remove Everything From the Tub (Clean a Bathtub)
Remove all toiletries, toys, bottles and loofahs before cleaning — you don’t want any cleaning items on them. This is a perfect time to throw away something that is new, broken or that will no longer be used. Wipe away all the things you removed; after all, slimy soap scum can also build upon those things.
To make them squeaky-clean you should put bath toys in the dishwasher too. If you don’t have to do so, then set them aside later to be put back in the water.
2. Clean the Tiles and Walls Around the Tub (Clean a Bathtub)
Using a tile-cleaner and grout brush if your grout is mildewed and dusty. Act from top to bottom, following the instructions on your tile cleaner, and then rinse any cleaner tile residue away completely.
Spray the walls with an all-purpose cleaner or cleaner which has been developed for surrounding your pool. Thoroughly wipe down the walls, paying careful attention to any messy or clearly dirty places. If your cleaner is bleach-based or has some other powerful smell, vent the area with an open window or fan.
3. Clear out the Drain (Clean a Bathtub)
If you think there’s a clog in your bathtub drain or it’s been a while since the drain has been cleaned, pour a half-cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a half-cup of white distilled vinegar. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to work out the clog, and then flush it with hot water.
4. Apply an All-Purpose or Tub Cleaner to the Interior of the Bathtub (Clean a Bathtub)
(Clean a Bathtub)
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Before applying the cleaner, use some warm water to wet down the tub and tiles. This helps to loosen dirt and makes the cleaner more effective.
Step 2: Apply the Cleaner
Generously spray the cleaner on the bathtub for 15-20 seconds. Make sure to cover all areas that need cleaning.
Step 3: Let It Sit
Let the cleaner sit for three to five minutes. This allows it to power through most of the grime, making it easier to do your work.
Step 4: Clean the Surface
Start wiping down the tub from top to bottom. Use a soft microfiber cloth rather than abrasive pads to prevent scratching the surface.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Finally, rinse away with water to ensure no cleaner residue remains. Thoroughly rinse this field to leave your tub sparkling clean.”
Additional Tips for Different Bathtub Materials
- Acrylic Tubs: Due to their sensitivity, always use a non-abrasive cleaner to avoid scratches.
- Porcelain and Enamelled Tubs: Select a cleaner specifically designed for these materials to prevent any damage.
- Fiberglass and Cast Iron Tubs: Ensure your cleaning product is compatible with these materials to maintain their finish.
By following these detailed steps and considering the type of material your bathtub is made from, you can ensure a sparkling clean bathroom without causing any damage.
You may also read about: ” Housekeeping in the Bathroom to Prevent Mildew and Mold “
1. Get Rid of Scum Soap
Attach an old toothbrush or another small cleaning brush to the soap scum. Start scrubbing over the corners where the tub hits the wall. Look out for other areas where soap scum gathers. The scum soap maybe a darkened colour or it might just feel like sediment in your shower. Take the time to clean it free, gently.
2. Scrub Some Stains
A stained ring can grow around the bathtub’s interior. With a scrub brush and a cleaner, this will require special attention. You will need to scrub really to remove this absolutely. Thoroughly rinse.
3. Wipe it clean one more time again
Dry the bath by rubbing it with a clean towel or cleaning cloth to make sure that there are no water stains or traces left in the bath.
Tips to keep your tub tidy (Clean a Bathtub)
After you’ve polished your bathtub to perfection, there are several more bathroom fixtures that you can spruce up for a pristine look. Here’s a list to get you started:
1. Glass Shower Doors
- Sparkle them up by removing water spots and soap scum. Use a mixture of vinegar and water or a glass cleaner for a streak-free finish.
2. Taps and Faucets
- Make them shine by wiping away grime and water stains. Consider using a mild detergent or baking soda paste for stubborn spots.
3. Bathroom Tiles
- Revive the grout and surface of your tiles with specialized cleaners or a homemade mix of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. This can help eliminate mold and stains.
4. Mirrors
- For a truly fresh feel, clean your mirrors with a streak-free solution, ensuring they reflect the gleam of your spotless tub.
5. Sink and Countertops
- Don’t ignore the sink area. Use a non-abrasive cleaner to maintain the finish and remove any toothpaste or soap residues.
By extending your cleaning efforts to these areas, your entire bathroom will look invigorated, inviting, and ready for relaxation.
Tips for Keeping Your Bathroom Mold-Free:
- Wipe Down Surfaces: After using the shower, make it a habit to quickly wipe down wet surfaces with a microfiber cloth. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which is a breeding ground for mold.
- Inspect Caulking: Regularly check caulk lines for any signs of mold, and use a bleach-based cleaner if necessary. Mold can often hide in these areas, so staying vigilant is key.
- Ventilation is Key: Keep the bathroom well-ventilated to speed up the drying process. Use an exhaust fan or open a window to ensure maximum airflow
For a targeted approach to preventing mold and mildew in your bathtub, consider using a powerful bathroom cleaner. Simply spray the cleaner over your bathtub surfaces and shower door, then wipe down with a microfiber cloth for a pristine finish.
Once you’ve got your bathtub gleaming, take the opportunity to tackle your glass shower doors, taps/faucets, and tiles. Ensuring these surfaces are spotless will enhance the overall cleanliness of your bathroom. By incorporating these practices, you can maintain a cleaner, healthier bathroom environment free from mold and mildew while keeping everything looking its best.
Cleaning Mold and Mildew Stains from Your Bathtub:
If mold and mildew have already taken hold, it’s important to tackle the problem head-on. Here’s how to clean those stubborn stains:
- Choose the Right Cleaner: Opt for a powerful bathroom cleaner designed to combat mold and mildew. Look for products that foam, as they tend to cling better to vertical surfaces.
- Apply the Cleaner: Spray the cleaner generously over the affected areas, including your shower door. Ensure that all surfaces are covered thoroughly.
- Wipe Down Effectively: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surfaces. This type of cloth is excellent for trapping mold particles and ensuring a streak-free finish.
By incorporating these practices, you can maintain a cleaner, healthier bathroom environment free from mold and mildew. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your space fresh and inviting.
How to clean a BathTub of various types?
Cleaning a bathtub effectively requires knowing the material you’re working with. Different surfaces need different approaches to ensure they remain in pristine condition. Here’s a comprehensive guide tailored for various bathtub materials:
Clean a Bathtub of Acrylic
Acrylic is a softer material that needs products and supplies for non-abrasive cleaning to leave it looking brand new. Follow the instructions for the best results on the product you select.
Initial Preparation: Use some warm water to wet down the tub and tiles before beginning the cleaning process.
- Apply Cleaner: Sprinkle baking soda or a mild cleaning substance in the tub and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. For rough stains, fill the tub with hot water and vinegar first. This soaking mixture helps remove any mildew and scum when left for 15 minutes, then drain the water.
- Gently Scrub: Use a smooth cloth or sponge to clean the baking soda onto the tub and roofs. Avoid abrasive pads to prevent scratching.
- Detailing: Use a bristle brush to trap dirt in the corners and around the edges of the wash.
- Final Rinse: Rinse the bowl, then wipe it clean.
Clean a bathtub of fibreglass
Fiberglass is a material widely used for bathtubs. Although it is easy to clean, using the wrong tools and supplies can scrape it. Utilize non-abrasive cleaners and soft materials for the best results.
You may also read about: ” Cleaning A Shower Or Bathroom – Shower Cleaning “
Clean a bathtub of porcelain enamel
- Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water, ammonia, and baking soda together in a bowl. For tough stains, cover them with salt and lemon juice throughout the tub first, then allow it to sit for up to 1 hour.
- Scrubbing: Scrub the lemon juice and salt into the dye.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the bucket and thoroughly rinse the tub.
- Final Wipe: Rinse the bowl, then wipe it clean.
Clean a Bathtub with Stone Resin
Man-made stone resin is exceptionally durable and stain- and scratch-resistant. This quick to clean surface will remain your bathroom’s centrepiece for years if you carefully clean it.
•
- Prepare Solution: In a bath or pan, add dishwasher detergent and water. For difficult stains, scrub the area to remove the stains with cream cleanser solutions.
- Wipe and Rinse: Use a towel to clean the tub and then finish removing the stains. Rinse several times and clean thoroughly to remove streaks.
By considering the specific needs of each bathtub material, you can maintain a spotless and inviting bathroom environment.
Cleaning a Jetted Tub (Clean a Bathtub)
1. Flush accumulated gunk and bacteria from the plumbing of the inner shower.
2. Switch off the vents for air induction.
3. Fill the toilet once again.
4. Kindly dust with baking soda.
5. A toothbrush to clean the jets.
Continue reading now for a step-by-step guide on how to clean a jetted tub with minimal difficulty.
TOOLS & TRAINS
• Baking sauce
• Vinegar
• Cup-measurement
• Household powder
• Wheat
• Ragged cotton
• Root strap
• Seal
• Tooth floss
Phase 1: Indoor tub plumbing flush accumulated gunk and bacteria;
For instance, clean any hair or other debris from the basin or bottom, then fill the tub until the water is at least a few inches above the jets. (If you’ve been cleaning the tub for a while, it’s best to fill it with hot water.)
Once the tub is full, you’ve got a few cleaning agent options (as always, first consult the manufacturer’s instructions). Choice one requires adding about two cups of vinegar to the water.
Since it is acidic, vinegar easily dissolves residue because, unlike many commercial cleaning agents, it does so without removing components from the tub.
Alternatively consider 1/2 cup of bleach together with a few teaspoons of powdered or liquid detergent dishwashing. (Some manufacturers do not recommend bleach which can dry out the gaskets over time.) Or you can buy one of the many commercial products specifically formulated for the cleaning of jetted tubes, following the package instructions.
Phase 2: Air-induction valves turn off
Now it’s time to activate the jets, but shut off the air-induction valves before you turn them on (unless your tub manufacturer explicitly suggests that they be left open). Closing the induction valves only allows water to flow through the tub’s internal plumbing.
This concentrates the surge, which results in a deeper cleanup. Run the jets on high for 10 or 15 minutes with the valves closed (or not), or until debris from internal plumbing stops washing into the tub’s water.
Phase 3: Flush the tub again
Water drain from the shower. Now, after coming to terms with the disgust you feel over the amount of filth that is possibly filling the tub basin at this stage, fill it up a few inches above the jets again with warm water.
Once again run the tub on high for another 10 to 15 minutes to wash even more gunk out. Drain out the sweat.
Phase 4: Gently sprinkle with baking soda
Okay, it’s time for some fine, old-fashioned scrubbing (regrettably, no one has found out how to clean a jetted tub in a totally hands-off, no-effort way.) Grab a soft tissue and some baking soda; the latter works well to break up mould, mildew, and soap scum.
Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the shower, let it sit for a few minutes, and use the smooth, dampened tissue to clean the grime away. You can also use the baking soda on the faucet and drain it easily too.
Try not to clean with too much vigour as you move along. Most whirlpool tubes are made of plastic, a material that is not easily scratched or gouged, but often if you are not careful.
Phase 5: Clean the zucchini jets
You’ve come a long way, but one last thing still needs to be done — that is, fix the muck and bacteria that can be trapped in and around the water jets. Gently scrub the jet nozzles and the contoured trim around those nozzles with a toothbrush which you use only for cleaning.
Try to dislodge it with a length of dental floss if you can see residue on a nozzle but can’t reach it with the toothbrush. Mind also to clean the air-intake cover by unwrapping it, giving it a soapy cleaning, rinsing it off and screwing it back into place. Finally, clean thoroughly to the shower.
Simple Tip for Clean a Bathtub
Here’s how to make a small batch (if it’s grapefruit season, double or quadruple the recipe and you can buy the fruit at low cost).
1. Halve the grapefruit and squeeze from half to half until half a cup of liquid is in. Take off seeds.
2. Add 1⁄2 cup of salt to the milk, then stir until the ingredients are mixed together.
3. Move the paste into a jar that is airtight.
The next time you want to clean the shower, apply the paste to a clean cloth, then scrub the entire pool, including the fixtures, and wash or wipe away the grapefruit-and-salt stains once you’re done.
How to clean a finished or reglazed bath?
Not the Coating Strongest
Whether you own a DIY-finished or professional finished pool, you’ve probably heard the same advice: just use soft cleaners. The explanation for this is that most refinishing of the bath is not the sort of glazing dip, where the tub is removed, taken to a shop and dipped.
Your bathroom was left in place, sanded down, washed, spot-repaired, masked off and sprayed with a paint gun or, if you did it yourself, a roller and a brush unless you paid thousands for that sort of replacement.
Since this is simply a paint job, the recommendation is well-founded to stick to non-abrasive materials. The only problem is that you need to clean the tub regularly for non-abrasive cleaners to function, before soap scum or hard water deposits form.
But if you adhere to a strict tub-based cleaning routine you should have no trouble with the non-abrasive rule.
Methods to stop washing
Pressure Purification
It seems like a domestic steam cleaner can get rid of all the dirt and soap gunk, even without using abrasives.
Unfortunately, steam does not get the job done, and if it gets underneath it, it may ruin the finish through cracks or other ruin. For this purpose, attempting to clean the tub with a scrubbing device is not advisable either.
Washing Power
Power washing, or press washing, is just too effective to try on painted surfaces. If you do it right, it’s possible to bathtub and shower tile with a pressure washer, but this isn’t okay for polished tubes of any kind; it might quickly lead to peeling or otherwise damaged coating and will definitely void a licenced refiner’s warranty.
Shredders
Abrasives include rough or gritty cleaners, as well as rough sponges, such as pads or sponges on one side with an abrasive coating.
Many manufacturers of tub refinishers and tub coating also warn against any products which contain bleach or ammonia. Popular cleaners that you should avoid but are not limited to:
• Powdered cleanser
• Any ammonia-containing purifier
• Bleached household or cleaner boosted by bleach
• Cleaners with an abrasive cream
Safe Refinished Surface Cleaners
Most refinishing companies and manufacturers of DIY tub coating seem to agree on a few commercial cleaners which are safe to use on polished tubes:
You can also use good old-fashioned dish soap.
You will need Equipment and Supplies
• The cleaner is non-abrasive
• Soap, microfibre, or nylon brush with a soft-bristle
• Bucket or water-rinse tub
• Lightweight rag towel
Rinse the dustbin
To extract hair and excess soap residue, rinse the tub with warm water. Put the cleaner on The cleaner of your choice is applied liberally to all tub surfaces.
Do not just spray our pour in one place in order to disperse it around as the cleaner has to be given time to work. You can pour some onto the surface if you use dish soap, then spread it with a sponge.
Let the Purifier Sit
Keep the cleaner on for approximately 5 minutes. This helps to work through soap stains and oils and also allows opportunities for disinfectant cleaners to disinfect (if you wash them off right away they don’t fully disinfect).
Scrub Sans Abrasives
Scrub the whole surface of the tub with a regular cellulose sponge or microfiber towel. If the tub has a non-slip surface to the rim, this area can be scrubbed with a smooth, nylon-bristle brush.
Rinse it all over again
Rinse the tub thoroughly, leaving no traces of any cleaner. This is particularly important when using dish soap, which may be highly slick on the surface of the tub. Any cleaner can also affect the finish of a tub if it is left on the surface to dry out.
Clear the bathtub
To remove water droplets, wipe the tub dry with a soft towel or cloth and buff the finish to a similarly fresh shine. You are definitely not going to do this with every use, but after a good cleaning, it’s a simple way to restore the shine.
How to Strip Mortar, Grout and Drywall Mud from a Bath?
Bathtubs are not intended as a catch-all to construction debris or building materials. Yet step through several bathrooms remodels or new homes under construction and you can find bathrooms full of debris: paint cans, thin set, drywall joints (known as mud), grout, and mortar, among other detritus.
You may have recently re-tiled or re-grouted your tub if you’re a DIYer but have neglected to mask off the tub itself, and now you’ve stuck dry, rock-hard blobs of grout and/or tile mortar onto the tub surface.
The good news is all of these things are coming up; it just takes some elbow grease — and some caution to stop scratches.
Removing Resin Drywall from a tub
The compound Drywall, or mud, is water-soluble. Sadly, the mud isn’t as water-soluble as you would expect. The moment water comes into contact with it hopefully it won’t dissolve. You’ve always got to work at it. In reality, the instant they finish using them, well ahead of mud drying, painters and drywall contractors diligently cleanse their tools.
It can still be removed after the mud has dried but it becomes much more difficult.
1. Load the tub with hot soapy water and let the water stay for approximately 30 minutes, then drain the tub.
2. Gently wipe a plastic paint scraper, the edge of a discarded credit card, or a plastic hotel key off the dried blobs of drywall. It is an abrasive material because the drywall compound contains silica, quartz, mica, and gypsum. Although it isn’t as abrasive as grout or mortar, you should still be careful to brush the mud clean. Avoid long strokes which move the mud beyond the area affected.
3. If the adhesive remains stuck to the surface of the pool, scrape off the top layer that the water has loosened.
4. Remove the dried bits by hand to prevent them from washing into the drain, which can lead to clogs.
5. Repeat the same process to extract all dried mud and residue, as required. The pool is completely rinsed.
6. Restore areas where mud has dulled the finish by rubbing with a polishing compound of the white automotive kind, then wax with liquid wax.
Cleaning Mortar or Grout from a tub. Tile grout and thin-set mortar are materials based on cement, which are tougher to clean than drywall mud. Grout and mortar are not water-soluble, so the soak-and-scrape process will not work here (as you would do with drywall compound). Grout and mortar are both rough and can scratch a bathtub’s polished surface. So besides removing the mess from the tub, your objective is to mitigate any damage.
1. To gently pick off dried blobs of grout or mortar, use a wooden popsicle stick or tongue depressor. You may also use a cheap plastic scraper from a paint shop or home base.
2. Grab loosened bits of grout or mortar as soon as they come out and be careful not to let them slip over the surface of the tub, which can result in more scratches.
3. With a shop vacuum clean all grout and mortar dust and small particles. Don’t brush the dirt, to stop scratching.
4. Mix non-abrasive cleaner in a bucket with the wash. Scrub areas with discolouration dipped in the cleaning solution using a non-abrasive sponge or scrubber. Well rinse the place, and repeat if appropriate.
5. Polish dulled areas with a polishing compound of the white car kind, then wax and buff with liquid wax.
Tough Grout or Mortar Residue Strip
In grout and thin-set tile, mortar cement can leave set-in stains on nearly any surface, including tubs. If you have tried scrubbing with a cleaning solution and a sponge or scrubber but the discolouration persists, a commercial grout haze remover is another option you can do.
Grout haze removers are designed to remove the whitish haze that occurs after the grouting process on the tile’s faces but they can also help with grout stains. Using grout haze remover as instructed by the manufacturer. This typically includes cleaning with a paper towel or with a clean rag.
How to Strip Mild Grounds?
For heavy dirt or small flecks …
1. Sprinkle the bowl with baking soda and spray on the above mentioned vinegar-and-water solution.
2. For several minutes, let the mixture bubble, then scrub with a soft cloth or sponge until a paste develops.
3. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes, clean and rinse over.
REMOVE TOUGH STAINS
If and when full cleaning power is required to deal with stubborn stains, follow these steps:
1. Create a paste from one part of hydrogen peroxide to two parts of baking soda (or tartar cream) for a steam cleaner.
2. Rub the paste over the stain, let stand for 30 minutes to an hour, then clean and rinse.
3. Repeat until the stain is gone if need be.
How to Strip Water Stains Hard?
Mineral deposits look like they will never come off but they are relatively easy to remove in fact.
1. Dip paper towels in white vinegar, full strength.
2. The soaked paper towels are added directly to the contaminated regions.
3. Let stand for 1 to 2 hours.
4. Lastly, scrub with baking soda and paste vinegar (discussed above), then rinse clean.
How to Cure Rusts?
Rust stains can be cured with a mixture of lemon juice and borax powder.
1. Sprinkle borax on the rust stains.
2. Using the half of a lemon cut to rub off each stain until it forms a paste.
3. Let the paste rest 15 to 30 minutes.
4. To clean and to rinse.
DOS AND DON’TS
• Evite the use of steel wool or highly abrasive brushes and scouring powders as they scratch the paint.
• Never combine items for the washing! For example, some chemical combinations — chlorine bleach and ammonia — can cause poisonous fumes or burn your skin.
• Make sure that the room is well ventilated even when using chemicals. Wear rubber gloves to cover your hands.
• Hydrogen peroxide and bleach will discolour the fabrics, so when using any items containing these chemicals, make sure to remove old garments.
• Wash and rinse the cleaning items away to ensure they do not leave any traces in the shower.
In the end, it takes patience and dedication to keep your bathroom clean on a continuous basis.
Try rinsing the tub surface with clean, warm water every time you bathe, or as much as possible, before wiping off the excess moisture with a squeegee, microfiber cloth, or sponge. Doing so goes a long way to eliminate the need for soap scum, mildew and grime, which makes washing more effective and more effortless.
If you’re too busy or just can’t get it done, Book today @ dirt2tidy.com.au. When you want to help clean up your dishwasher, a local professional comes along!
