How to Clean Your Bathtub Effectively and Safely

Ah, how we love the bathtub, a tranquil place to relax after a long day, a refuge where we sit and soak our cares away. It’s true , There’s no denying the soothing luxury of a large freestanding tub, but keeping it in pristine condition? That’s another story.

 

If you’re like me, you’ve probably gazed at your bathtub a time or two (or a hundred) and wondered, “How did this get so dirty?” Over time soap scum, grime and even mould can sneak in, robbing your beautiful tub of its lustre. The good news? With the right tools and techniques, you can make it sparkle and keep it sparkling without sweating— or harming the surface.

 

Use this comprehensive step-by-step guide to clean your bathtub effectively and safely and keep your oasis looking and feeling new!

 

The Importance of Cleaning a Bathtub Properly

 

Before diving into the nitty-gritty (pun intended), why does it matter if you clean your tub properly? Besides looking good, keeping things clean is also good for their longevity, removing bacteria or mould buildup and avoiding slippery surfaces that can lead to accidents. This is particularly important for the large, freestanding tubs with exposed surfaces that need special care to maintain their glamour and usability.

And the kicker is that using the wrong cleaning tools or chemicals can damage your tub. And that’s why it’s essential to know how to clean it!

 

What You’ll Need: Tools and Supplies

 

Before you start, you must collect all the tools you’ll use for the job. Here is a quick checklist of tools and supplies needed to clean your bathtub — and that won’t get you in trouble with harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

 

Practical Cleaning Essentials

 

· Soft sponges or microfiber cloths — Do not use anything that may scratch your tub surface.

· Soft-bristle brush — Good for gently scrubbing obstinate areas and corners.

· Gentle tub cleaner or soap — Use a non-toxic, gentle formula to avoid damaging your surfaces.

· Baking soda and vinegar– An all-natural dynamic duo for deeper cleaning.

· Spray bottle – To apply the cleaning solution easily

· Hot water – The greatest loosener of dirt and grease.

 

Optional Add-Ons

 

· Rubber gloves — No one likes their hands to be pruney after cleaning.

· Essential oils — Put a drop or two in your cleaning mixture for a spa-like aroma after cleanup.

· Non-toxic cleaning pads are mild enough for use on large enamel or acrylic freestanding tubs.

 

How To Clean Your Bathtub: A Step-By-Step Guide

 

Now that we have all the needed materials, it’s time to get to work and clean! This how-to will work if your bathtub is acrylic, porcelain, or fibreglass.

 

Step 1: Rinse and scrub residue

 

Begin by rinsing your tub with warm water. This loosens any surface grime and prepares your tub for a deeper clean. If you own a handheld showerhead, use it or a container to pour water over your body. Ensure all soap or bubble residue from the previous bath is washed off before proceeding to the next step.

 

Step 2: The cleaning solution you mixed

 

Choose your method of cleaning! Here are two solutions: one that uses common natural household products and one that uses store-bought solutions.

 

· Store-bought cleaner: For mild bathtub cleaner (ideally nontoxic), spray it evenly over the surface. With large freestanding tubs, pay attention to the inside and outer shell — these tubs need full pampering!

· DIY natural cleaner: Cover the tub with a layer of baking soda, then spray vinegar on top. Just watch as the fizz does its magic to dissolve the stubborn grime.

 

Step 3: Scrub Gently

 

Scrub the tub in circular motions using a gentle sponge or cloth. Focus on areas around the drain, faucet, and corners where dirt likes to hibernate. For especially tricky spots or hard-to-budge stains, a soft-bristle brush is perfect for gently scrubbing trouble areas without scratching the finish.

 

Tip: For huge freestanding tubs, remember to scrub the external surface! That’s part of the beauty of these tubs; they’re drop-dead gorgeous from all sides, so be sure that every last inch is shining.

 

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

 

Once you’re satisfied with the scrubbing, rinse the tub well with warm water. Be patient with this step — any remaining cleaning solution might dry, making your windows streaky, which defeats the whole purpose, right?

 

Step 5: Blot Dry for Added Luster

 

This step is often overlooked! Dry the inside and outside of your tub using a microfiber cloth. Not only does this help avoid water spots, but it also gives your tub that polished, showroom-like finish.

 

Pro Tips for Stain Removal

 

Sometimes, your tub needs extra TLC, especially if it has discolouration or set-in stains. Here’s how to avoid these safely and effectively.

 

· Stubborn stains: Combine baking soda and enough water to make a paste. Apply it directly on the stain, let it sit for 20 minutes and then scrub with a soft brush.

· Hard water marks can dull the lustre of a large free-standing tub. To erase the accumulation, spray, scrub, and rinse away with a vinegar and water solution.

· Mildew or mould: Apply some hydrogen peroxide (diluted with water) to the affected spots, let it sit for 10 minutes, and wipe clean.

 

How Often You Should Clean Your Bathtub

 

Consistency is key to keeping your tub sparkling clean. A weekly quick rinse can help prevent build-up for regular bathers. A deeper clean, like the one above, should be performed every 2-3 weeks to keep it fresh. If you have a large freestanding tub, clean off the exposed outer shell once a month.

 

Large Freestanding Tub Design Considerations

 

Oversized freestanding tubs, such as those by Wellfor, are not just bathtubs; they are sophisticated signature pieces! Their freestanding design makes them a focal point — and thus always on display — in any bathroom.

 

To preserve their elegance:

 

· Use only non-abrasive cleaners to preserve surfaces.

· Work on the outside, too, shines as brightly as the inside.

· Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach or anything that will damage the tub’s finish.

 

Bonus Tips for a Longer-Lasting Clean Tub

 

Rinse your tub after each bath to prevent soap suds from drying and adhering.

 

· After use, wipe the inside with a small squeegee or cloth. Use bath oils and products sparingly—they add extra residue.

 

Make Your Tub Feel as Sparkly as New

 

And there you have it—your complete guide to safely and effectively cleaning your bathtub! Whether you have a compact soaking tub or an artful big freestanding tub, these steps will keep it looking pretty while functioning well.

 

If you’re ready to elevate your cleaning routine, consider getting Wellfor’s tub cleaning essentials here to keep your tub in tip-top condition.

 

Remember that a clean bathtub is not only  for looking but also about creating a space where you can relax. Get in there, prepare that candlelit soak, and enjoy the fruits of your (limited) labour!

 

Happy cleaning!