March 25, 2022
Learn how to clean your dingy bathtub and get rid of grime the right way.
Life gets busy. Most people don’t have time to take a nice, relaxing bubble bath daily. That means you’re likely hopping in the shower, spending 10 to 20 minutes getting clean, and then hopping out without even noticing the grime that’s built up.
It won’t be until you sit down in your bathtub to finally enjoy that rose petal bath soak when you realize the tub is dirty. It’s been weeks since you properly cleaned it, and now, you’re sitting in layers of soap scum and dirt. Not a very peaceful image, right?
Avoid that cringy scenario altogether by learning a few essential bathtub cleaning tips. Follow along as we share how to clean a bathtub for that freshly polished feel.
What You’ll Need to Clean Your Tub
Go ahead and grab any (or all) of these cleaning tools and products. They are safe and effective to use when polishing any type of tub, whether plastic or porcelain.
- Mild dish soap
- Soft sponge
- Baking soda
- Spray bottle
- Soft-bristle scrub brush
- Tile cleaner (optional)
- Bathtub cleaner (like this one)
- Microfiber cloth or hand towel (one that can be sacrificed)
How to Clean a Bathtub (Normal Grime)
First, you will want to remove any personal products, bathmats, or shower curtain liners from inside the tub. This ensures you can clean all surface areas and work with a clear space.
Next, rinse the entire tub with warm water. You’re clearing away any hair or debris sitting on the tub’s surface.
Follow this step by applying your bathtub cleaner to the tub walls, inner rim, and outer rim where you sit things on. If using baking soda, sprinkle a light layer. If using a chemical cleaner, spray a light even layer as well. Let it sit for several minutes.
Then, take your sponge and wipe down everything, periodically rinsing it off as needed.
Finally, give your tub a thorough rinse with warm water to wash away the cleaning product.
How to Deep Clean a Bathtub (Heavy Grime)
You may need to use a bit more elbow grease to wipe away heavy layers of grime and clean soap scum that’s been built up for a while.
Deep cleaning a bathtub is similar to cleaning a bathtub regularly but heavily emphasizes the soak time. Use the spray bottle to spritz an even layer of bleach over the areas that need a heavy touch. While that is soaking in, sprinkle either baking soda or a chemical cleaner over the deep clean areas.
Allow those layers to soak into the tub for about 30 minutes or longer if needed. You may opt to use the bristle brush instead of the cloth since it will provide better scrubbing power.
Rinse with warm water and repeat.
Bonus Bathtub Cleaning Tips
Follow these easy bathtub cleaning tips.
1. Try Tea Tree Oil
Did you know that tea tree oil can be used as a disinfectant? This essential oil is an antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal agent. Use a few drops of the oil mixed with water in a spray bottle to keep your bathtub free of bacteria and to help combat mold.
2. Clean the Drain
Don’t forget about cleaning the drain! Sprinkle a few tablespoons of baking soda in and around the tub drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let it fizz and bubble for a few minutes, and wipe away the paste it created. Rinse with warm water.
3. Be Kind to Your Knees
Cleaning the tub is often uncomfortable on the body. You must stoop down and get on your knees on the hard floor for several minutes at a time. Save your body the ache and use a pad for your knees. Fold a plush towel several times until it is thick.
4. Tiles First
If your tub has tiled walls, go ahead and clean those first. The purpose of cleaning the tiles first is to move from top to bottom, preventing any debris from the tiles falling into your freshly polished bathtub. So, save the tub for last, especially the inner surface.
Real Cleaning, Real Simple
Ready to experience what a truly clean house feels like? Our team is professionally trained and vetted to ensure only the highest-quality cleaners step foot into your space. We are also insured, so that means you can rest easier knowing your space is protected while we work.
Whether you need a one-time deep clean for your home or a thorough office cleaning, we get our hands dirty in it all to give your space a real clean. Request a quote today to gift yourself a fresher environment tomorrow.