How to Clean a Plastic Bathtub

A plastic bathtub can be cleaned easily using a commercial bathtub cleaner. However, commercial cleaner may be best only if the hard water stains on the bathtub are very hard to remove. Sometimes, ordinary home materials can be used effectively to clean the tub even without using a commercial cleaner. One only needs to use elbow grease. Like any other type of tub, human effort is necessary to clean a plastic bathtub. Here is how.

Step 1 - Protect the Hands

When working with acidic liquids, always make sure to protect the hands with rubber gloves. When cleaning bathtub plastic surfaces, using some low acidity solvents such as vinegar and lemon juice can be quite effective. Although these solvents are not highly acidic, prolonged exposure on the hands is not good at all so it is best to wear protective covering.

Step 2 - Use Detergent First

Plastic bathtubs are easy to clean so make use of detergent at first to check if it can clean the bathtub effectively. Usually, dirt or stains on bathtubs can be cleaned effectively by using only a brush, detergent and water. Pour some detergent onto a container and add a bit of water. Dip the cloth in the container and use it to wipe off the dirt on the tub. Use a brush for scrub away stubborn stains. Rinse with water. If this does not clean the tub effectively, move on to the next steps.

Step 2 - Use Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Soak a piece of cloth entirely into a cup or bowl of vinegar and use it to scrub the stains on the plastic bathtub. Gently apply pressure on the cloth to and do not rub too tightly. Work in a circular motion to avoid creating more streaks on the surface, Never rub up and down. If vinegar does not dissolve stains entirely, apply lemon juice on the cloth and rub it on the plastic bathtub surface.

For hard to remove stains, allow the cloth soaked in vinegar or lemon juice to sit on the stain for about 15 minutes. Rub the stains off or use a brush to scrub the stain away. Rinse with water afterwards.

Step 4 - Use Chlorine Bleach

Chlorine bleach is an effective solution that can remove calcium build-up in plastic bathtubs. Since chlorine bleach has a very strong odor, make sure to ventilate the room well before working on the stains.

Mix equal parts of chlorine and water in a container and use it to clean the bathtub. Place the solution in a spray bottle and spray on the bathtub surfaces evenly. Allow the solution to sit on the bathtub for about 15-minutes before scrubbing with a toothbrush or brush. Rinse the bathtub with water to flush the chemical.

Step 5 - Wipe with Dry Cloth

Rebuff the bathtub after cleaning using a clean dry soft cloth.