Would you want to take a relaxing bath in an unclean tub? Of course not. Baths are a great way to soothe away stress while relaxing in the tub, so keeping it clean on a regular basis is important. 

If a bathtub is grimy and marred by the appearance of soap scum, then germs are present. Also, what many homeowners do not realize is that the dead skin cells in soap scum can feed bacteria and help them to grow. So, is your bathtub actually clean enough for you to use? 

A dirty bathtub is unsightly, and if ignored, fungi and mold can grow. Investing a little of your time regularly is usually all that is needed to keep your bathtub clean and looking beautiful. Here’s our step-by-step on how to clean a bathtub the right way.

Steps to Cleaning a Bathtub

• It is always important to do your research to make sure you use the right products, such as Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath Scrubber Sponge, Bio-Clean Hard Water Stain Remover, and RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover for your bathtub, unless you decide to create your own. Make sure to wear gloves to protect your skin when cleaning your bathtub and bathroom.
• Remove bathtub clutter and toss out anything that is empty, broken, or not used anymore.
• Clean the tiles and walls around the bathtub to remove grout mildew. Wipe down the walls thoroughly, paying close attention to any sticky or dirty areas.
• If a bathtub drain is clogged, it is best to use the baking soda and vinegar method. Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain and let it sit for a few minutes. Gradually add half a cup of white vinegar, which will create a fizziness. Wait a couple of minutes before flushing with hot water.
• Apply an all-purpose cleaner or tub cleaner to the bathtub and let it sit for three to five minutes to loosen much of the grime. Afterward, wipe down the tub from top to bottom, then rinse thoroughly. If you opt to create your own, mix equal parts of distilled white vinegar and dish soap that is less harsh. To mask the smell of the vinegar, you can add a few drops of essential oils.      
• Using an old toothbrush or small cleaner brush, begin scrubbing the corners where the bathtub meets the wall and where soap scum has collected in other places.
• If a stain ring forms around the interior of the bathtub, use a scrub brush and cleanser to fully remove it, then rinse thoroughly. 
• Once you are satisfied and the tub looks clean, wipe everything down again one last time with a clean towel or cloth.
• Finish up by polishing the tub faucet, drain, and handles with a clean cloth.

How Often Should I Clean My Bathtub?

Depending on how often you use your bathtub will determine how often you should clean it. If you use your bathtub regularly, then you need to clean it at least once a week. But if you use your bathtub less frequently, then plan to give it a good cleaning once a month. 

Read also: Rub-A-Dub-Dub! Want to Buy a Tub?

Tips for Keeping the Bathtub Clean

• Every time you take a bath, rinse the tub’s surface and wipe off excess moisture with a towel or cloth to help prevent bacteria buildup.
• To fight the most stubborn stains and grimy soap buildup, use liquid dish soap.  
• Keep your bathtub drain cleaner and clearer with a mesh drain catcher.
• Keep mildew and mold growth at bay by quickly getting rid of it using a bleach-based spray. This can stop it from spreading and causing a bigger problem.
• Never use steel wool to clean a bathtub.

Nothing feels better than soaking in a clean bathtub at the end of a long day. It is where you can indulge in some peace and quiet. And achieving a squeaky-clean tub does not have to be daunting. With regular TLC, your bathtub can be the healthy oasis you want it to be. It is just a matter of knowing what to do, and how to clean a bathtub.   

Read also: What Should I Look for When Buying a Bathtub?

If you are looking for a bathtub store in Lafayette, LA, stop by Facets of Lafayette today. We are the one-stop shop for all your plumbing fixtures and home appliance needs. With over 200 years of combined staff experience, we can advise and recommend the bathtub that best suits your bathroom. 

Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our showroom consultants. You will experience top-quality customer service when shopping at Facets because we make the everyday easier. 

Sources:

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-clean-bathtub-1900292