There’s nothing more relaxing than a hot bath after a long day, but if your bath tub isn’t the cleanest, it could mean a shower instead. Don’t let a dirty bath tub keep you from enjoying a bath; learning how to clean a bathtub is easy – especially if you do it the natural way and avoid toxic chemical cleaners. Here are some tips from our bath experts:
Basic Clean
If your bathtub just needs a simple clean to refresh it, follow these steps:
- Rinse the tub thoroughly with clean, warm water.
- After that, wipe off excess moisture with a sponge or microfiber cloth.
- Fill a spray bottle with a half-and-half mixture of white vinegar and warm water and spray the bath tub down.
- Then, let the mixture sit for 15 minutes.
- Rinse the tub with warm water.
Mold/Mildew
If you’re trying to get rid of mold or mildew in your bath tub, follow these steps:
- Rinse the tub thoroughly with clean, warm water.
- After that, wipe off excess moisture with a sponge or microfiber cloth.
- Sprinkle baking soda all over the tub.
- Then, spray on the vinegar and warm water solution.
- Let the mixture bubble for several minutes, then scrub it with your sponge or cloth until a paste forms.
- Let the paste sit for about 15 minutes, then wipe it down and rinse the bath tub clean.
Stains/Rust
If your bath tub requires a more thorough clean, follow these steps:
- Create a paste by combining one party hydrogen peroxide with two parts baking soda.
- Next, rub the paste on the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes to one hour.
- Wipe the paste off with a sponge or microfiber cloth, then rinse with warm water.
- To get rid of rust, sprinkle the area with borax powder.
- After that, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top of the borax powder.
- Use the cut part of the lemon to rub the mixture and form a paste.
- Let the paste sit for 15-30 minutes, then wipe off with a sponge or cloth.
- Rinse with warm water.
What to Avoid
- Steel wool and abrasive brushes, as they can scratch the surface of your tub.
- Mixing cleaning products. Store-bought cleaners can create toxic fumes when mixed.
- A closed-in space. Always ensure you’re in a well-ventilated area before you clean.
- Ruined clothing. Clean your bath tub in old or worn clothing.