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Everything You Need to Know to Deep Clean a Bathtub

Deep cleaning your bathtub may seem daunting, but it's manageable with the right approach and tools.

by Tom Scalisi
A bathtub that has been deep cleaned, it is white and spotless.
iStock

Is your bathtub looking dingy thanks to soap scum, hard water stains, or mold buildup? It may be time for a deep clean. In this guide, we’ll explain how to deep clean a bathtub, tackle stubborn stains, and keep it looking fresh between cleanings.

Tools and Materials for Bathtub Cleaning

Before diving into cleaning, gather the necessary supplies. Having everything ready will make the process quicker and easier. Here’s a list of some essential items you’ll need:

  • Baking soda
  • Bleach
  • Bucket
  • Dish soap
  • Face mask or respirator
  • Household cleaning gloves
  • Lemon juice
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Safety glasses
  • Scrub brush
  • Sponge
  • Spray bottle
  • Toilet bowl cleaner
  • White vinegar

Cleaning Different Bathtub Materials

Different types of bathtubs use varied materials that require different cleaning approaches to avoid damage and get the best results. Let’s break down some common bathtub materials and their characteristics.

Acrylic Bathtubs

Acrylic tubs are popular because they’re lightweight, durable, and come in many colors. However, they can scratch easily, so avoid abrasive cleaners.

Porcelain Bathtubs

Porcelain tubs, often found in older homes, are classic and resistant to chemicals. They can handle harsher cleaning products but can chip with impact. These luxurious tubs can last for decades, but they need careful handling to stay in great shape.

Fiberglass Bathtubs

Many homeowners install fiberglass tubs because they’re affordable and lightweight. However, fiberglass tubs are prone to cracking and staining. They require gentle cleaning to avoid damage. Fiberglass tubs need consistent care to prevent discoloration and maintain their finish.

Natural Stone Bathtubs

Natural stone tubs, like those made of marble or granite, are luxurious and unique. Avoid acidic cleaners on natural stone to prevent etching and damage. These elegant, high-quality tubs demand upkeep to preserve their beauty.

Preparing Your Bathtub for Deep Cleaning

You need a clean, clutter-free space for thorough cleaning. Start by removing all bath products, toys, and other items from the tub and surrounding area. Rinse the tub with hot water to get rid of loose debris and soften any built-up grime. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface, paying special attention to corners and crevices where dirt often hides.

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Bathtubs

Natural cleaning solutions are often effective and gentle for most bathtub materials. They’re also eco-friendly and typically made from ingredients you already have at home. Below are two popular natural cleaning methods.

Vinegar and Baking Soda Method

This classic combination is excellent for cleaning porcelain and fiberglass tubs:

  1. Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle. For fiberglass tubs, use a two-to-one water-to-vinegar ratio. For porcelain tubs, use a one-to-one ratio.
  2. Spray the entire tub and let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle baking soda over the vinegar solution.
  4. Scrub with a damp cloth or sponge, working from top to bottom.
  5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Lemon Juice and Dish Soap Technique

This method is particularly effective for acrylic tubs:

  1. Create an equal-part mixture of baking soda and dish soap. Add a few drops of lemon juice.
  2. Mix until foamy.
  3. Apply the mixture and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  4. Scrub gently with a wet sponge, working from top to bottom.
  5. Rinse the entire tub with clean water.

Commercial Bathtub Cleaning Products

While natural solutions often do the trick, some jobs call for commercial cleaners. When using these products, choose high quality cleaning products for your tub material and read the label’s instructions carefully for the best results. We recommend following these best practices to use commercial bathtub products safely and effectively:

  1. Ventilate the bathroom by opening windows or running fans.
  2. Apply the cleaner according to the package’s instructions.
  3. Allow the product to sit for its instructed time.
  4. Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.
  5. Rinse with hot water to remove all residue.

Professional-Grade Bathtub Cleaning

For extremely dirty bathtubs or those that haven’t been cleaned in years, you might need professional-grade techniques. One method is using a gel toilet bowl cleaner with bleach, which clings to surfaces and breaks down tough grime.

  1. Apply the gel cleaner to problem areas, especially along grout lines and corners.
  2. Cover the gel with paper towels for vertical surfaces to keep it in place.
  3. Let the gel sit for about an hour or overnight for severe cases.
  4. Scrub the area thoroughly with a brush.
  5. Rinse completely with clean water.

Tackling Common Bathtub Stains and Buildup

Even with regular cleaning, bathtubs can develop stubborn stains and buildup. Addressing these issues requires targeted approaches for different types of stains.

Removing Soap Scum

Soap scum can create a dull film on your tub’s surface. Here’s how to remove it:

  1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
  2. Spray the solution on the scum and let it sit for 15 minutes.
  3. Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Addressing Hard Water Deposits

Hard water can leave mineral deposits in your tub. Tackle them with these steps:

  1. Create a paste with equal parts white vinegar and baking soda.
  2. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  3. Scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth.
  4. Rinse well with clean water.

Eliminating Rust Stains

For rust stains, try this method:

  1. Cut a lemon in half and sprinkle salt on the cut side.
  2. Rub the lemon on the rust stain.
  3. Let the lemon juice sit for 15–20 minutes.
  4. Scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge.
  5. Rinse thoroughly.

Dealing With Mold and Mildew in Bathtubs

Mold and mildew are not only unsightly, but they also pose health risks. Mold appears as black or green spots, while mildew often looks white or gray. Both can grow in damp, poorly ventilated areas of your bathroom. If you recognize these signs early, you can expedite addressing the mold and prevent significant problems.

Safe Mold Removal Methods

You may need to use a commercial mold remover for more stubborn mold. Always follow the product instructions carefully and have proper ventilation when using these products. But for effective and safe mold and mildew removal, try this first:

  1. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
  2. Spray the solution and let it sit for an hour.
  3. Scrub gently with a brush or sponge.
  4. Rinse thoroughly and dry the area completely.

To keep mold from forming, painter Mauro Henrique adds mold-resistant paint to a bathroom in the video below.

Maintaining a Clean Tub Between Deep Cleans

Regular maintenance significantly reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning. Here are some tips to keep your bathtub clean:

  1. Rinse the tub after each use to remove soap residue and body oils.
  2. Use a squeegee or towel to dry surfaces after bathing.
  3. Apply a daily shower spray to prevent soap scum buildup.
  4. Clean your tub weekly with a mild cleaner to prevent grime accumulation.
  5. Address stains and spots as soon as you notice them to avoid set-in stains.

Bathtub Cleaning Accessories

A truly clean bathtub extends beyond just the tub itself. Shower curtains and liners can harbor mold and mildew, so we recommend this plan to clean them:

  1. Remove the curtain or liner from the rod.
  2. Machine wash them on a gentle cycle with warm water and a mild detergent.
  3. Add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to help remove mildew.
  4. Hang to dry completely before rehanging.

Drains also need regular attention to stay clean. For jetted tubs and drains, follow these steps:

  1. Fill the tub with hot water above the jets.
  2. Add two cups of white vinegar and a half cup of baking soda.
  3. Run the jets for 15 minutes.
  4. Drain the tub and refill with hot water.
  5. Run the jets again for 10 minutes to rinse.

Safety Precautions When Deep Cleaning Bathtubs

Whether you opt for natural solutions or commercial cleaners, safety should always be a priority. When deep cleaning your bathtub, follow these precautions:

  1. Wear gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
  2. Use eye protection to prevent splashes from entering your eyes.
  3. Check for proper ventilation by opening windows or running fans.
  4. Never mix different cleaning products, especially those containing bleach and ammonia.
  5. Read and follow all product instructions carefully.
  6. Store cleaning products safely out of reach of children and pets.

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