A sparkling clean bathtub isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s also about hygiene. If you’ve only been using soap, elbow grease, and a warm water rinse, your cleaning method isn’t enough. Your bathtub’s material can affect how potent your cleaning methods are, which is why the best way to clean a tub is to determine its material, then clean based on the following guidelines.
4 Simple Tests to Determine Your Bathtub’s Material
If you’re unsure of what material your tub is made from, look for the manufacturer’s label underneath the tub or drain, or try these 4 tests:
- Visual: A smooth or glossy finish indicates acrylic or enamel-coated steel, while a rough texture is cast iron or fiberglass, and a glass-like appearance suggests porcelain.
- Tap: Does your tub sound hollow or metallic when you tap it? The former is likely fiberglass, whereas, the latter is cast iron or enamel. Bell-pitched? It’s porcelain.
- Magnet: Does the magnet stick? If yes, could be steel or cast iron.
- Temperature: An idle tub that’s warm to the touch is likely acrylic, but a cold one is cast iron or enamel-coated steel.
The Best Way to Clean Your Tub – From Porcelain to Cast Polymers
How To Clean A Porcelain Tub
Porcelain-enameled steel tubs are affordable and durable, but delicate, and can chip/scratch easily. This opens the steel up to rusting if the tub isn’t repaired properly.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners, heavy chemicals, or scouring powder. You’ll want to use a brand-name cleaner that is designed specifically for porcelain.
- Alternatively, mix a few tablespoons of dish soap with a gallon of hot water and apply to the bathtub’s surface via a sponge or rag. Scrub and rinse well with water. This cleaning method should be used sparingly (once a month at most) to prevent damage from overuse.
For a shiny finish, apply a small amount of lemon oil to the sides of the tub.
How to Clean An Acrylic Bathtub
Vacuum-formed acrylic, reinforced with fiberglass, makes for a versatile, long-lasting, and affordable tub. Unfortunately, scratches can quickly become problematic, and so proper care must be taken.
- An acrylic tub cleaner is a must, as any abrasion can create micro-scratches, and strong liquid cleansers can damage or dull the surface.
- Always wet your tub with warm water before cleaning.
- Don’t have an acrylic-specific tub cleaner? Use a small amount of baby shampoo on a damp rag, and rub into the surface with circular motions.
- Apply an acrylic car wax to keep it shiny and prevent soap, water, and shampoo from sticking to the surface. Once dry, buff the surface with a fresh cotton ball. Repeat every 6-months.
How to Clean A Fiberglass Tub
Fiberglass tubs are prone to scratching, so use non-abrasive cleaning tools like damp cloths/sponges and mild cleaning mixtures. The best way to clean a fiberglass tub is either:
- With a vinegar wash that is 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. This will dissolve mildew, mold, grease, and mineral deposits without damage.
- Loosen grime with steam, then apply, not scrub, a mixture of a cup of baking soda and a quarter cup of hydrogen peroxide. Wait 15-30 minutes, then rinse with cold water and dry all surfaces.
If you want to use a brand-name bought liquid cleaner, opt for a shower cleaning kit instead of something like bleach. If you’re wondering how to clean a composite tub, the above tips for fiberglass can be applied here.
How to Clean A Cast Iron Tub
Typically made with a thick layer of enamel, cast iron tubs are highly chip and scratch resistant, but require special care to maintain their finish. Using a harsh chemical on a cast iron tub will discolor it, so the best way to clean your tub is:
- Daily Cleaning: Use a paste made from baking soda and warm water. Apply the paste to stains, let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
- Tougher Stains: Use a solution of trisodium phosphate cleaner (TSP) and hot water. Gently rub it in with a sponge right away and rinse completely.
Need to Clean A Cast Polymer Bathtub?
While they’re the most aesthetically pleasing, the natural stone appearance of cast polymer tubs is highly sensitive to even the smallest of scratches as their gel coat can be easily ruined.
- Mild soaps and cleaners, such as a vinegar and water solution, are enough to eliminate buildup while preserving the tub.
- Use soft cloths to wipe away grime and stains without causing damage underneath.
Keeping your bathtub sparkling clean enhances its lifespan and keeps your bathroom looking fresh. For all your cleaning needs, ROG3 offers a complete bathtub and shower cleaning kit that works on all types of tub materials. Want to know more? Give us a call at 1-800-585-2325 or get in touch here.