Start Cleaning Your Bathtub and Shower the Right Way!
Keeping your bathtub and shower clean is a vital part of maintaining a healthy, beautiful bathroom. Whether you’re taking a relaxing soak or a quick rinse, the cleanliness of these spaces contributes to your overall comfort and hygiene. Over time, however, even the most sparkling tubs and showers can become dingy due to soap scum, mold, hard water stains, and grime. That’s why it’s important to clean these areas thoroughly and regularly—not only for aesthetic reasons but also for your health.
At Panda Contractors, we understand that while everyone enjoys a clean bathroom, not everyone knows how to keep their tub or shower in top condition. Different materials require different care, and using the wrong products can do more harm than good. This blog will guide you through cleaning your bathtub and shower properly, based on what they’re made of, with practical advice you can start using today.
Why Routine Bathtub Cleaning Matters
A clean tub doesn’t just look good—it prevents the buildup of potentially harmful bacteria, mold, and mildew. Regular cleaning can also help preserve the surface of your tub, protecting your investment and extending its lifespan. Bathrooms are naturally humid environments, which means they’re prone to moisture retention. That makes your bathtub and shower the perfect breeding ground for unwanted microbial growth if not maintained.
Experts generally recommend deep-cleaning your tub at least once per month, with quick touch-ups once or twice a week. If you use your bathtub often, you might benefit from more frequent cleanings to stay ahead of buildup.
Start With the Basics: Prep and Safety
Before you begin scrubbing, it’s essential to prepare your space and protect yourself.
Start by removing everything from the tub and shower area. That means shampoos, conditioners, razors, bath toys, loofahs—anything that might obstruct your cleaning or hold onto bacteria and moisture. Set them aside in a clean, dry spot.
Make sure the bathroom is well-ventilated. Turn on the fan or crack a window to ensure proper airflow while you clean. This is especially important when using chemical cleaners or bleach.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin from irritants and keep your hands clean. If you plan to use bleach, consider safety goggles and even a face mask to avoid breathing in fumes. Always read the labels on any cleaning product you use and never mix products like bleach and vinegar, as the combination can produce toxic chlorine gas.
Now that you’re prepped, let’s get into the specifics.
Cleaning an Acrylic Bathtub
Acrylic tubs are among the most popular bathtub choices due to their affordable price, sleek appearance, and lightweight construction. They’re relatively easy to install, making them a go-to for many homeowners. However, acrylic is sensitive to scratches and can be damaged by abrasive cleaners or rough scrubbers. Because of this, it’s essential to use a gentle yet effective method when cleaning.
Here’s how to clean an acrylic bathtub safely and effectively:
- Sprinkle baking soda: Lightly dust a thin, even layer of baking soda over the entire surface of the tub, focusing on areas with soap scum or grime buildup.
- Apply vinegar solution: In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white cleaning vinegar and warm water. Spray the mixture over the baking soda. It should begin to fizz as it reacts—this helps break down residue.
- Let it sit: Allow the baking soda and vinegar solution to sit for about 10 minutes to loosen dirt and soap scum.
- Gently scrub: Using a soft sponge or a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the surface of the tub. The mixture will form a paste as you work. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent scratching.
- Let it sit again: After scrubbing, let the paste remain on the surface for another 20 minutes to tackle any remaining grime.
- Rinse thoroughly: Use warm water to rinse away the paste and loosened debris completely.
- Dry the tub: Wipe the surface dry with a clean microfiber towel to prevent water spots and restore the shine.
For cleaning around tight areas like the drain, faucet, or corners, use an old toothbrush. It can reach into tricky spots without scratching the surface.
Cleaning a Fiberglass Bathtub
Fiberglass bathtubs are a popular choice thanks to their affordability and ease of installation. However, they tend to be more fragile than acrylic and are especially prone to stains and discoloration over time. That makes regular, gentle cleaning essential to keep them looking their best.
To clean a fiberglass bathtub effectively:
- Create a cleaning paste: Mix baking soda with warm water to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste: Spread the mixture evenly over the tub, covering the bottom, sides, and any stained or discolored spots.
- Soak and apply vinegar-soaked towels: Soak old towels or rags in white vinegar and lay them over the baking soda-coated areas.
- Let it sit: Allow the towels to remain in place for about one hour. The vinegar’s acidity and baking soda’s mild abrasiveness will help break down grime and stains.
- Remove towels and scrub: After an hour, take off the towels and gently scrub the tub using a non-abrasive sponge. Focus on areas around the drain, in the corners, and any sections with visible soap scum.
- Rinse thoroughly: Use warm water to rinse away any remaining residue.
- Dry the surface: Wipe the tub dry with a clean microfiber towel to prevent water spots and help remove any lingering mildew.
If some stains persist despite your efforts, professional resurfacing or refinishing may be necessary. When in doubt, a contractor like Panda Contractors can inspect your tub and determine whether repair or replacement is the better option.
Cleaning a Porcelain Bathtub
Porcelain-enameled tubs are known for their glossy finish and excellent durability. Unlike acrylic or fiberglass, porcelain can handle more aggressive cleaning methods. That said, porcelain can still chip or rust if it’s not treated carefully.
For general cleaning, plug the drain and add a gallon of hot water and a few tablespoons of dishwashing liquid. Use a sponge to distribute the soapy water throughout the tub, focusing on any grime or soap scum. After a good scrubbing, rinse the tub thoroughly and dry with a microfiber towel.
If you notice rust stains, you can treat them with a natural combo of lemon juice and salt. Sprinkle salt over the rust spots, then pour lemon juice on top. Let the mixture sit for at least 45 minutes to an hour. Afterward, scrub the area with a soft sponge. You might need to repeat this process for heavier stains.
If rust persists despite multiple treatments, or if the porcelain has chipped to reveal metal underneath, refinishing might be necessary to restore the tub to its former condition.
Removing Mold and Mildew From Tubs and Shower Walls
Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, making bathrooms a common hotspot. Left untreated, these organisms can cause respiratory issues and damage surfaces. Fortunately, they can be treated effectively with bleach—if you’re cleaning fiberglass or porcelain.
Mix a cleaning solution using one part bleach to four parts warm water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the affected areas and let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away the mold or mildew. Follow up with a second round of scrubbing using warm water and dish soap to remove any remaining bleach. Be sure to rinse the tub thoroughly and dry it afterward. Keep windows open or use an exhaust fan during and after cleaning to remove fumes and reduce humidity.
For acrylic tubs, do not use bleach. Instead, revert to the vinegar and baking soda method mentioned earlier, as vinegar is effective at killing mold without damaging the acrylic surface.
How to Keep Your Tub and Shower Cleaner for Longer
Once you’ve got your bathtub and shower sparkling clean, maintaining that freshness is much easier if you stay consistent. Here are some easy ways to prevent buildup in the future:
Rinse and wipe down your tub after every use to remove leftover soap and shampoo. This simple step goes a long way in preventing soap scum and mildew. Consider investing in a squeegee or keeping a microfiber cloth nearby to dry off the tub and shower walls after use quickly. Moisture is the number one cause of mold, so staying ahead of it is key.
Avoid leaving items like shampoo bottles, bath toys, and sponges sitting in the tub when not in use. These items trap water underneath them, creating the perfect conditions for stains and bacteria.
Use a daily shower spray made from vinegar and water to cut down on grime between deep cleans. And if you spot mildew forming, deal with it immediately using the appropriate cleaner for your tub type.
When Cleaning Isn’t Enough, Call the Pros
Even with the best cleaning regimen, some bathtubs and showers reach a point where they just can’t be restored to like-new condition. If your tub is scratched, discolored, or outdated, a full replacement or bathroom renovation might be the best way forward.
That’s where Panda Contractors comes in. We offer expert bathroom remodeling and renovation services to help you upgrade your space and create the bathroom you’ve always wanted. Whether you need a new acrylic tub, a fiberglass-to-porcelain upgrade, or a complete shower overhaul, our team has the experience and expertise to get the job done right.
Need Help Cleaning Your Bathroom Space?
Cleaning your bathtub and shower doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With the right approach and a little consistency, you can keep your bathroom fresh, hygienic, and inviting all year round. Different tubs need different care, but every surface benefits from regular maintenance.
Want help transforming your bathroom into a low-maintenance, luxury retreat? Contact Panda Contractors for a free consultation. Give us a call at (772) 404-3888 or fill out a form online.
