How To Clean A Bathtub

Keeping your bathtub clean is an essential part of maintaining a healthy home. It not only looks better, but it also prevents the growth of bacteria and mould.

The best part is cleaning your bathtub is easy with the right tools and proper steps.

How often to clean a bathtub

A bathtub should be cleaned at least once a week, depending on how much it is being used. 

This will help prevent the buildup of hard-to-remove residue and reduce the need for more thorough deep cleans.

What cleaning supplies do you need to clean a bathtub?

• Dish soap
• Tile cleaner
• A scrub brush or sponge
• Clean microfiber cloths
• Paper towels
• Spray bottle (optional for spot cleaning with bleach solution)
• Hot water
• Rubber gloves
• Safety glasses (if you’re using bleach or other chemical cleaning solutions)

If your tub is really dirty, you might also want to pick up some baking soda and white vinegar to use together as a powerful cleaning agent. 

You can opt to use a bleach solution, too, if you want to whiten your bathtub as you deep clean it.

Cleaning bathtubs with different cleaning solutions

How to clean a bathtub with bleach solution

For this cleaning method, all you need are rubber gloves, paper towels, a clean cloth, a bucket, warm water, and bleach.

1. Start by wiping down the bathtub with paper towels.
2. Mix one part bleach and nine parts of warm water into the bucket. 
3. With your rubber gloves on, use a clean microfiber cloth to scrub gently in circular motions until any dirt or residue has been removed.
4. Rinse the tub with clean cold water.
5. Then give the area one more wipe down with another clean, soft cloth.

How to clean a bathtub with baking soda

Cleaning your bathtub with baking soda is a simple and effective way to get rid of dirt, soap scum, and stubborn stains. 

You will need the following materials: baking soda, white vinegar, a scrub brush, and a sponge or microfiber cloth.

1. Mix approximately 100 grams of baking soda with just enough water to create a paste.
2. Apply the baking soda paste to the entire tub, including the walls, the bottom, and the corners. Be sure to cover the whole surface.
3. Let the paste sit in the bathtub for at least 15 minutes. This will allow the baking soda time to break down the dirt and soap scum.
4. Use a scrub brush to scrub the entire tub, paying extra attention to any stains or tough spots.
5. Rinse the bathtub with white vinegar. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, creating a cleaning solution that will help to remove any remaining dirt or grime.
6. Wipe the bathtub with a sponge or microfiber cloth to remove the vinegar and baking soda solution.
7. Rinse the bathtub with water and dry it with a clean towel. This will help to remove any remaining cleaning solution and prevent water spots from forming.

How to clean a bathtub with dish soap

You don’t need expensive commercial products to clean a bathtub. You’ll need a few drops of dish soap and some elbow grease.

1. Start by wetting the surface of your tub with warm water.
2. Then apply the dish soap in small amounts, using an old sponge or brush to spread it across the entire area.
3. Work those suds into the bathtub walls, bottom and corners.
4. Rinse the tub with cold water and use a clean paper towel to give the tub one last buff.

How to clean different types of bathtubs

The best way to clean a bathtub will depend on its material.

It’s important to use a cleaner specifically designed for the type of bathtub you have and to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the tub’s surface. 

Here are some tips for cleaning different types of bathtubs:

Acrylic bathtub

Acrylic bathtubs are relatively easy to clean and maintain. You can use a soft cloth or sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down the tub’s surface.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the surface of the tub.

Fiberglass bathtub

A fiberglass tub is also relatively easy to clean. You can use a soft cloth or sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down the tub’s surface.

Avoid using abrasive sponges, as these can scratch the surface of the fiberglass.

Porcelain Bathtub

Porcelain bathtubs are durable but can be prone to staining. To clean a porcelain bathtub, use a soft cloth or sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner.

For tough stains, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the tub’s surface.

Cast Iron Bathtub

Cast iron bathtubs are heavy and durable but can also be prone to rust and staining. To clean a cast iron bathtub, use a soft cloth or sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner.

For tough stains, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the surface of the tub.

Stone Bathtub

Stone bathtubs, such as granite or marble, are durable but can be prone to staining.

To clean a stone bathtub, use a soft cloth or sponge and a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for stone surfaces.

Avoid using acidic cleaners, such as vinegar or lemon juice, as these can damage the stone’s surface.

How to clean a bathtub drain

With the right tools, even the most clogged drain can be cleared and cleaned in no time.

To prevent long-term problems, pour boiling water and baking soda into your drain at least once a month.

For tougher build-up, use an over-the-counter chemical cleaning product or a natural solution of white vinegar and baking soda.

How to clean hair from bathtub drain

If you have long hair or live with someone who does, you’ve had to remove locks of hair from a bathtub drain.

Some households have a drain catcher or strainer for these situations, but if you don’t have one — it’s okay. 

Here’s how to get the hair out of your bathtub drain:

1. Gather your cleaning supplies. You’ll need rubber gloves, a barbecue stick or needle-nose pliers, some baking soda and white vinegar.
2. Remove the drain stopper. Find the drain stopper in your bathtub and remove it or lift it.
3. Use the pliers or a barbecue stick to remove the hair. Most hair can be removed by hand, but some may be stuck to the drain and need to be picked by finer tools.
4. Pour baking soda and white vinegar into the drain. This will create a chemical reaction that will help to dissolve any remaining hair. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Rinse the baking soda mix with hot water. If you have a shower head above your bathtub, now’s the time to use it to rinse the drain.
6. Repeat these steps as needed.

How to clean a clogged bathtub drain

Some clogged bathtub drains can easily be cleared with just hot water.

You can also use baking soda and white vinegar for this cleaning process.

How to clean jets in a bathtub

Nothing beats a relaxing soak in the tub after a long day, but if your bathtub has jets, you know that cleaning them can be a hassle.

1. Fill the bathtub with hot water and add a cleaning solution. You can use a formulated solution for cleaning jetted tubs or mild dish soap.
2. Turn on the jets and let them run for 15 minutes. This will help get rid of any built-up grime or dirt.
3. Turn off the jets and drain the bathtub.
4. Refill the bathtub with cold water and 500 mL of white vinegar.
5. Let the white vinegar solution sit for another 15 minutes.
6. Rinse the bathtub with clean water until all traces of vinegar are gone.

When to call a professional to clean your bathtub

Your bathtub is meant to be a place for respite, but without proper maintenance, it can become grimy and gross.

Fortunately, this doesn’t have to mean replacing your bathtub — you can call a cleaning professional to get it sparkling again.

Looking for more cleaning tips? You can use our guide on how to clean your bathroom as a starting point.