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Who likes cleaning their bathtub? If you do, you are probably in the minority. But most of us dislike it because not every cleaner works effectively. However, bathtub cleaning is quick and easy as long as you know what to use. We look at the best bathtub cleaner available. Plus, we explain how to clean a bathtub in less than 30 minutes a week.
What Is the Best Bathtub Cleaner?
There are many different commercial bathtub cleaners on the market. While most of them are effective, they are also expensive. They are also usually formulated for specific surfaces. Although they will still work, you could end up unnecessarily using a lot of the cleaner.
If you are looking for a real multipurpose bathtub cleaner, consider making your own with equal parts white vinegar and liquid dish soap. The acid in the vinegar helps loosen grime and kill bacteria, while the dish soap is great at cleaning almost any surface.
For the best results, add them to a spray bottle and thoroughly spray your tub. Then wait for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a microfiber towel or a soft cloth. Rinse the tub with hot water and wipe it dry with a soft cloth to prevent water stains.
If you do choose to purchase a commercial cleaning product, always read the label. Although most will say multi-surface on the front, the label on the back often lists the types of bathtub surfaces they are most effective at cleaning.
Since they usually contain harsh chemicals, always work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves and eye protection.
How Do You Clean a Bathtub?
One of the biggest reasons that cleaning a bathtub takes so long is that most of us tend to put it off. However, you can keep your bathtub looking great with less than 30 minutes of work each week with just a little elbow grease.
All you need to clean a bathtub is:
- Bathtub cleaner (Either homemade or store-bought)
- Spray bottle (If using homemade cleaner)
- Microfiber or soft cloths (At least 2, but 4 or more is better)
- Soft-bristled scrub brush or non-abrasive sponge (Optional)
- Rubber gloves (Optional)
Then set aside about half an hour once a week and follow these steps:
1. Remove Items
You can not clean your bathtub effectively if it is cluttered with bars of soap, body wash and shampoo bottles, washcloths, luffas, kids’ toys, or other items. So start by clearing out the area. Wipe down bottles with a damp cloth, then set them aside.
2. Apply the Cleaner
Once you have cleared the area, it’s time to apply the cleaner. If you are using the vinegar and dish soap solution, spray it all over the bathtub and wait for 15 minutes before continuing. This will give it enough time to break down any dirt and grime. If you are using a commercial product, follow the instructions on the label.
3. Scrub the Tub
Once the cleaner has had enough time to work its magic, it’s time to scrub the tub. Using either a microfiber towel or a soft cloth, gently scrub the tub, being sure to get into all the corners and crevices. For stubborn stains or caked-on grime, use a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive sponge to scrub them away gently. If you are using a commercial product, make sure to read the label for any special instructions on how to use it.
4. Rinse and Dry
Once you have finished scrubbing, rinse the tub with warm water. To prevent streaks and water spots, wipe your bathtub dry with a dry, clean towel or microfiber cloth.
5. Replace Items
Lastly, replace your bathtub and shower items. To help keep your shower clean longer, limit the number of things you keep around the tub.
Tips for Keeping Your Bathtub Clean
To keep your bathtub clean, it is important to establish a regular cleaning routine. Here are some tips for keeping your bathtub clean:
- Clean your bathtub regularly. Aim for at least once a week, but twice a week is even better.
- Use a non-abrasive cleaner. Abrasive cleaners can damage the finish of your tub and make it harder to clean in the future.
- Wipe down bottles and other items after each use to prevent the soap scum and grime from building up.
- Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to wipe down the walls of your tub after each use. This will help prevent soap scum and mildew buildup.
- Keep the area around your bathtub clutter-free. This will make it easier to clean and prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Clean your shower head regularly. This will help keep it free of mineral buildup and ensure that it is working properly.
- If you have hard water, use a water softener to reduce mineral buildup on your faucets and in your bathtub.
- Check the caulk along the tub every year and reapply when necessary to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage or mold.
How To Clean Mold, Mildew, and Pink or Red Slime in the Bathtub and Shower
Unfortunately, even with regular bathtub cleaning, you can still develop mold, mildew, or a pinkish-red slime.
Mold is commonly found on tile grout, caulk, and anywhere that water pools. It is often green or black, but can also appear white, brown, or blue. Mildew usually forms on the tub surface or on tiles and has a whitish-grey color.
Although often mistaken as mold, the pink or red slime is actually a form of bacteria that is attracted to moisture. It often starts off a pale orangey-pink and darks to a pinkish-red in time.
If you have any of these problems, you can take care of them with a little bleach. Add about a quarter cup of bleach to a spray bottle, then fill it up with water.
Switch on the exhaust vent, then spray the tub with the bleach solution. Wait 20 to 30 minutes, then rinse the surfaces with warm water and a soft cloth.