A woman’s neatness and cleanliness can always be assessed by the cleanliness of the toilet and bathroom in her apartment. A good housewife has a clean bathroom in her apartment, and the plumbing is impressive in its snow-white condition. However, this is not always easy and simple, especially when buying an apartment on the secondary market, so sometimes even the most experienced housewives can face such a difficult task: How to clean a bathtub yourself at home?
1. Causes of bath contamination
Any bathtub, regardless of its material (metal, cast iron, acrylic or even marble), is prone to contamination due to its constant contact with water. Here are the main causes of pollution:
- Light touch. This is pollution that occurs as a result of daily bathing or showering. It consists of skin particles, its secretions and soap solution. This contamination is removed quite simply - just a sponge and warm water.
- Soap scum. Over time, the products that we use for personal hygiene: soap, shampoo, shower gel, conditioner - eat into the enamel, and getting rid of them is quite problematic.
- Hard water. This phenomenon, of course, depends on the region of residence. If there is a high concentration of salts in tap water, then after some time a yellowish-white crumbling coating can be found on the surface of the bathtub, which can only be removed with an acid-containing cleaning agent.
- Rust. It appears due to increased levels of iron in tap water.
- Bath age. With prolonged use, due to the natural abrasion of the glossy surface to a rough state, it becomes easier for rust to eat into roughness and small cracks.
- Accidental contamination. These include an accidentally dropped drop of paint during repairs or other coloring material.
2. Store-bought cleaning products
When starting to clean the bathtub, first of all you should pay attention to what manufacturers of household chemicals offer us today. “Cillit Bang” copes well with its task, but it is worth noting that in any case the bathtub should be washed a couple of times a week, otherwise it will not be so easy to get rid of stubborn plaque and rust.
Gel products such as Sif Ultra White or Comet are also good for cleaning the surface of the bathtub. Among the liquid products, it is worth noting Domestos, which perfectly cleans the surface of medium-complex dirt, however, one of its disadvantages is the strong smell of chlorine.
For enamel baths, experts advise using a product that is familiar to any housewife - Pemolux. However, it should be used with caution and not too often, since the soda particles present in Pemolux can scratch the glossy surface.
Owners of bathtubs with a hydromassage function with an acrylic coating should pay attention to such cleaning products as “Sun Clean”, “Triton”, “Mr. Clean”, which do not contain acids or abrasive particles, and therefore are able to carefully clean the surface.
3. Folk remedies
The main advantages of cleaning the bathtub with folk remedies include the fact that they are non-toxic, cheap and always at hand.
Soda and vinegar
The cleaning method using soda and vinegar is considered one of the most popular. As a rule, cleaning occurs in two stages. First, apply soda to the wetted surface for 15-20 minutes. Due to the fact that soda is an excellent absorbent agent, it is able to draw out all the dirt from the surface of the bathtub, as well as dissolve plaque.
After the specified time, a solution of vinegar and bleach in a 50/50 ratio is applied to the soda. This time the mixture is left for approximately an hour, after which it is thoroughly washed off with warm water.
If the surface is slightly dirty, a nine percent vinegar solution can be used. This method is great for processing cast iron bathtubs. Napkins or paper towels are moistened with vinegar and spread over the entire surface of the bath overnight. In the morning, rinse everything thoroughly with warm water.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste acts on the surface of the bath in the same way as on the surface of the teeth, carefully cleaning from plaque and stubborn stains. The principle of operation is absolutely similar to regular brushing of teeth, except that instead of a toothbrush, you can use a household sponge with a hard surface. However, it is worth noting that this method is not the cheapest.
Dishwashing liquid
Such cleaning products not only cope with dirty dishes, but can also easily clean a sink or bathtub. In order to clean the bathtub with dishwashing liquid, it should first be well moistened with water. Then, using a sponge, the solution must be applied evenly to the entire surface of the bath. Having completed this stage, you should wait about 10 minutes, allowing the product to dissolve stubborn plaque and stains, and then rinse everything off with warm water. These steps must be repeated until all contaminants are washed away.
It is worth noting that this method is mainly applicable for new, primarily acrylic bathtubs. Due to the fact that there are no abrasive substances in the dishwashing liquid, the new surface will not be scratched and will last many times longer.
Lemon acid
To clean the surface of the bathtub with citric acid you will need:
- 1 glass of warm water
- 1 packet of acid or one lemon
Dilute the contents of the bag in water, or, if using lemon, cut it in half and squeeze the juice into a glass of water. Apply the prepared mixture with a sponge to the treated area of the bath for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with running water. If contamination is not completely removed, it is recommended to repeat the procedure. Remaining stains can be easily wiped off with baking soda.
Mustard powder
An excellent remedy for removing greasy stains from the surface of the bathtub is mustard. In addition, mustard powder can be freely purchased at any nearby grocery store. To clean the bathtub with mustard, the powder must be mixed with water until the consistency of sour cream is formed. Apply the resulting paste to a sponge and treat the contaminated areas of the bath. Then rinse thoroughly with water. Mustard can also be purchased in tube form. In this case, you do not have to mix it with water and can immediately apply it to the sponge.
Peroxide and ammonia
For this method, mix hydrogen peroxide and ammonia in equal parts. After applying the resulting solution to the contaminated area of the bath, wait 10-15 minutes for the mixture to dissolve old stains. After which, everything is washed off with plenty of warm water.
Dry bleach
In order to clean the surface of the bathtub with dry bleach, you need to prepare a paste by mixing:
- Three large spoons of bleach
- Three large spoons of water
4. Acrylic baths
Acrylic bathtubs are by far the most common. However, despite this, they are not without drawbacks. For example, their coating is very sensitive to strong chemicals. It is for this reason that it is highly recommended not to use products containing:
- Alcohols
- Acids
- Ammonia
- Acetone
- Formaldehyde
- Alkali
Also, to clean acrylic bathtubs, you should not use washing powder, as it will cause the bathtub to take on a dull tint.
Care for acrylic bathtubs should be done using liquid soap or dishwashing liquid, as well as a soft sponge or paper towels.
The best way to clean acrylic is to maintain your bathroom regularly. After each water procedure, you should wipe the bath with a damp cloth or sponge, thereby removing fresh deposits.
5. Cast iron and steel baths
There are many more household products available to care for this type of bathtub than for acrylic ones:
- Cleaning gels and creams (it is recommended to use only with gloves)
- Hydrogen peroxide and ammonia
- Bleach
However, just as with acrylic bathtubs, it is prohibited to use products containing: alcohol, acids, alkali, chlorine.
6. Marble baths
Bathtubs and sinks made of marble belong to the VIP class of sanitary ware, and as a result require special care. Here are the basic rules:
- Do not use chemicals for cleaning
- Contaminants should be removed with a soap solution or soda mixed with ammonia.
- In order to whiten a light marble surface, you will need salt and citric acid. The solution is applied to the area of the bath to be cleaned for 10-15 minutes, then washed off with warm water and soapy water.
- Polishing paste will help restore your marble bathtub to its former shine.
- To extend its service life, you can use the services of restoration professionals.
7. Removing limescale
Due to the fact that limescale can penetrate deep into the surface of the bathtub, getting rid of it sometimes becomes quite problematic. However, there are no unsolvable problems. To remove limescale, you need to prepare cleaning mixtures at home. Here are their main variations:
- A mixture of borax and table vinegar in a 1:1 ratio
- A mixture of table salt and heated vinegar (brought to a mushy consistency)
- A mixture of turpentine and ordinary table salt in a 1:1 ratio
- A solution of ammonia and water in a ratio of 3:1
- Lemon juice or citric acid
The resulting solution is applied to the area to be cleaned and carefully treated with a sponge until the plaque is completely removed.
Important! It is worth noting that these methods are not applicable to new acrylic bathtubs, as there is a risk of scratching the glossy surface.
8. Removing soap scum
Prevention is the best way to prevent soap scum. In order to prevent the formation of this type of contamination, it is recommended that after each water procedure, thoroughly rinse off the foam flakes from the surface until they are completely dry. Also, preventive measures include replacing solid soap with liquid soap, due to the fact that solid soap contains talc, which settles on the surface of plumbing fixtures and tiles in the form of plaque.
The best solution for removing soap scum is citric acid (or lemon juice). Procedure:
- Dilute citric acid (lemon juice) with a small amount of water
- Using a spray bottle, spray the resulting solution evenly over the entire surface to be cleaned.
- Leave the bath for 10-15 minutes so that the acid dissolves the plaque.
- Rinse everything thoroughly with running water.
This method will not only remove soap scum, but also restore the bathtub to its former shine.
9. Rust removal
The best way to get rid of rust is to prevent it from occurring. To do this, it is recommended to periodically check the condition of the faucet, hose and shower head for smudges and leaks, and promptly change worn rubber gaskets. However, if rust has already settled on the surface of your plumbing fixtures, here are some popular methods for eliminating it:
- A mixture of ammonia and water, diluted in equal parts, is applied to the surface to be cleaned for 10-15 minutes. Then rinse off with plenty of water. If necessary, the operation is repeated.
- Citric acid or lemon juice (without adding water) is applied over the rusty mark for 10-15 minutes. After which, wash off with water.
- Salt is added to the heated vinegar. Then the resulting solution is rubbed onto the contaminated surface. Then rinse off with plenty of water.
- Apply fresh mustard liberally to the rust mark and leave overnight. In the morning, rub the treated area with a sponge and rinse with plenty of water.
Important to remember! These methods should be used carefully for acrylic surfaces and only if the method with liquid soap and dishwashing gel does not work.
10. Removing fungus and mold
Even the most modern bathroom is not immune to mold. This may be due to improper ventilation of the room, constant dampness or a leaking faucet. A favorite place for mold to grow is between the bathtub and the wall. In addition to aesthetic discomfort, mold can have a negative impact on the health of people living in the house. In this regard, if a fungus is detected, it is necessary to immediately begin its elimination. Here are the main ways to eliminate mold in the bathroom:
- Prevention. Wash off plaque regularly with laundry soap once a week.
- Treat the affected areas of the surface with copper sulfate, which can be easily purchased at any nearby hardware store.
Important! It is necessary to work with copper sulfate using a brush and strictly wearing rubber gloves.
- Apply bleach or bleach (chlorine-based) to the affected area and then rinse with plenty of water.
The most radical method is to dismantle the existing corner between the bathtub and the wall, completely remove the old sealant, treat the fungal colony using the above methods, and then install a new corner. Also worth noting are such household chemicals as special antiseptics for fungus and mold. They are quite effective, but at the same time harmful to the respiratory system. However, the best way to get rid of mold is to prevent it from occurring. This can be achieved only by completely eliminating moisture in the room by installing supply and exhaust ventilation.
11. Removing traces of repairs and accidentally spilled dyes
In order to avoid having to remove drops of paint after the repair is completed, it is necessary to cover the bathtub with plastic wrap and cover it with plywood on top before it begins.
However, anything can happen in life: the film moves or slides off and a random drop of paint flies straight onto the bare surface of a brand new bathtub. Here are the main ways to remove repair marks from the surface of the bathtub:
Metal baths
Using a blade, the bulk of the already dried spilled substance (paint, sealant, etc.) is carefully removed from the surface. Then a piece of cloth or cotton ball soaked in solvent is placed over the stain. The cotton wool or cloth with solvent is periodically changed as it dries until the remaining spilled substance is completely dissolved.
Acrylic bathtubs
A grinding machine will help remove traces of repair from acrylic, which will carefully remove the dirt. After which, it will be necessary to polish the treated area just as carefully. However, it is worth noting that this method is acceptable for minor stains and if you have experience working with a grinding machine.
Important! The easiest way to remove dirt is before it dries.
12. How to clean a bathtub at home: Video
Having considered the basic methods for caring for a bathroom, you can add a few more tips:
- Do not rub the coating with steel wool under any circumstances.
- Do not wash the bathtub with toilet care products due to their aggressive composition that can destroy the enamel.
- Wipe regularly with a damp and then dry cloth.
- Carry out a thorough cleaning of the bathroom once a week, which will prevent the appearance of rust and limestone.
If for some reason you need help in removing severe contamination from the surface of your bathtub, we recommend placing an order in the section "Cleaning (Cleaning)" our portal, indicating a price acceptable to you. After some time, our performers will respond to your instructions.