How to Clean a Bathtub So You Can Enjoy a Proper Soak

Sinking into a tub at the end of a long day can instantly make any stressors feel as light as the bubbles in the bath. Yet, if you don’t know how to clean a bathtub, the grime and soap scum ring around the perimeter, or the mildew where the caulk and grout meet, will only add to your list of worries. Skip ruminating about your cleaning to-do list and plan a bathroom cleaning ahead of time. Even a small detail like a clean bathtub can make you feel happier at home, not to mention, a spotless one prevents harder to deal with issues like mineral deposits, limescale, and ridiculous soap scum. 

While the regularity with which you clean your tub depends on how many people live in your home—for instance, bath time with kids will create more dirt than a solo homeowner—a visibly dirty bathtub is a no-no in everyone’s book. Avoid a tub of shame by committing to a monthly deep clean and a quick weekly scrub-downs with a few simple cleaning tips so you can use your bath as a source of relaxation, not angst. Read on to learn how to clean bathtub stains before soaking in bubble bath haven. Cue candles and essential oils.

What tools do I need to clean a bathtub?

Cleaning your bathtub properly depends on its material, so determine whether yours is made of fiberglass, acrylic, or porcelain before getting started. There’s a chance it’s made of stone too, which is the easiest building material to guess. Once you’ve figured that out, and cleared your tub of any bottles, toys, and the like, you can get to work. You’ll need a spray bottle, a sponge, an old toothbrush, a microfiber cloth (or paper towels), a scrub brush with bristles, and a bucket to mix cleaning solution. It’s also a good idea to wear rubber gloves to protect your skin, put a rolled-up towel beneath your knees, and open any windows (or use a fan) for ventilation. Cleaning a bathtub requires a bit of elbow grease, so do it on a day when you have time and energy.

How do I clean an acrylic bathtub? 

“Although acrylic tubs are extremely durable, their soft surfaces can easily be damaged by abrasive cleaning products and methods,” says Joshua Wakeford, American Standard senior product associate in Canfield, Ohio. He recommends using gentle materials such as baby shampoo and warm water on a damp rag or cloth. Once the surface is dry and clean, rubbing a bit of car wax on the tub in a circular motion can help protect it from future stains and scratches. If you have a bathtub drain that has a clog, pour two cups of vinegar and a quarter of a cup of baking soda into it, and then chase with boiling hot water. If it’s still not draining, you might need to use a plunger or an auger to dislodge a hair clog. Next, rinse the tub and wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth. 

How do I clean a fiberglass bathtub? 

If you have a fiberglass tub that isn’t shockingly gross, combine one part warm water and two parts vinegar in a spray bottle and cover the entire tub with the solution. Let it sit for up to 20 minutes, and then use a soft sponge to lightly scrub the sides and the floor. Skip the steel wool as it may scratch the surface. Rinse and dry the tub as the final step.

To really clean a fiberglass tub, Wakeford recommends a paste of baking soda, dish soap and water, which you can then apply all over the surface. “Let the paste sit for at least thirty minutes prior to scrubbing the surface to remove the dirt, and then rinse with cold water,” he says. Stubborn stains may need a deep clean. Fill the bathtub with equal parts white vinegar and hot water and allow to soak for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen up the grime. Drain the water, and then use the baking soda paste. Switch to the toothbrush to get into the corners and around the faucet.

How do I clean a porcelain bathtub? 

The best way to clean a porcelain bathtub stains is to create a mixture of a few drops of dish soap and hot water and apply it to your tub with a gentle rag. “It’s important to avoid cleaning products with harsh chemicals or abrasive applicators as they may damage the finish of the tub,” Wakeford advises. “For a deep clean, create a mixture with equal parts of ammonia and baking soda, ¼ cup each, with a gallon of warm water.” Be sure to thoroughly rinse the tub after, especially if you plan on using other cleaning solutions that have bleach for surrounding tile or to clean aluminum blinds—this will minimize your chances of accidentally creating a toxic gas.

How do I clean a natural stone bathtub? 

When it comes to statement stone bathtubs (think Calacatta marble or limestone), you’ll want to a a cleaning solution that works on stone kitchen countertops. Avoid harsh chemicals that can discolor or stain the material. Instead, mix equal parts dish soap like Dawn EZ-Squeeze and warm water to get rid of buildup. A non-scratch sponge should do the trick.