Bathtubs are covered in dirt and germs, which can cause all sorts of nasty problems. Warm up around 100 milliliters of white vinegar in the microwave until it is hot. Try the cleaning method that is recommended by Home Depot for stubborn stains on fiberglass before you give up on attempting to scrub away the stains: Put on a layer of a paste made from baking soda and water, then cover it with a cloth that has been soaked in vinegar. Victorian Plumbing recommends mixing 100 ml of vinegar with 30 ml of lemon juice and half a cup of baking soda to form a paste. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. There are a variety of commercial bathroom cleaners that are suitable for use on vinyl tub enclosures, including dish soap, laundry detergent, soft gel or cream cleansers that are not abrasive, and many others. The key to keeping it that way is through daily shower maintenance. Apply this paste onto the stained area of the tub and leave it for about 10 minutes. The dirt caused by these chemicals and treatments could stick to the tub and become a permanent stain. Removing any suds and dirt before they have a chance to set on the plastic will make them far easier to get rid of. Your email address will not be published. A mixture of water and vinegar. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. Dirt comes to all of your furniture including the bathtub. How to clean plastic bathtub 1. The key is to use mild cleaning solutions like vinegar, baking soda dish soap, bleach, mixer degreaser, and all-purpose cleaners for the best results. Be sure to thoroughly combine the dish soap and the water. Dont worry! They are gentle on the surface of the plastic tub, so no damage will be caused by using them. They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. If required, carry out the procedure once more until the stain is removed. Soft rags or scrubbers may also be used as needed but should only do so if absolutely necessary- these tools can leave scratches if not handled properly so caution should be taken when using them for tough stains or debris. Step 3 Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. Video of the Day Step 2 Fill a spray bottle with a bathroom cleaner approved to treat rust stains. Moisten the brush with fresh water as needed. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub 1. Baking soda works wonders when it comes to lifting hard dirt and other stains from acrylic plastic. The coating provides protection against discoloration from ultraviolet rays. The bubbles will loosen any dirt and grime. Acrylic or plastic bathtubs and tub surrounds call for nonabrasive cleaning products only. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. How To Clean Acrylic Tubs And Shower Walls Twin Home Experts 247K subscribers Subscribe 161K views 4 years ago This is a simple, non-toxic way to clean and preserve your acrylic tubs and. Using circular motions around the entire surface area, slowly scrub away at tough stains until they are no longer visible on the surface. Step 4. If your acrylic tub is heavily stained or dirty, consider filling the tub with hot water and vinegar. Fill up your bathtub with two inches of hot water, and add one cup of hand sanitizer. Repeat the wiping process with a fresh microfiber towel. Apply an auto whiting polish to the surround with a clean cloth. Combine one teaspoon of hand dishwashing soap with half a gallon of warm water and mix thoroughly.Wash the newly whitened tub surround by soaking a clean cloth in the soapy solution and then using the cloth to scrub the surface.Both the hydrogen peroxide and the laundry booster solution will be eliminated from the plastic by the soapy solution.After giving the surround of your tub a rinsing with lukewarm water, dry it off with a fresh towel. Plastic tub surrounds often have a smooth surface that is easy to clean with a damp cloth since there are no grout lines to trap debris in the surface. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, choosing the right type of bathtub for your home, How to Restore Shine to Plastic Bathtubs and Shower Enclosures, How to Clean and Restore Shine to a Fiberglass Tub. Let it stand for 10 minutes. Yellowed plastic can be whitened by using cream peroxide or tartar. [18] Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub, How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs. They will be able to bring your bathtub back to its previous condition, without causing any damage. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. Be sure to thoroughly combine the dish soap and the water. Good Housekeeping recommends using something like Tilex Shower Spray daily to help keep your tub looking shiny and prevent any buildup of soap scum or mineral deposits. Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. Dish soap 8. Use this in the same way as you would use dish detergent. These cleaners are gentle on surfaces so as not to damage them in the process. Continue with Recommended Cookies. CLR will certainly help. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. How Long Does Weed Stay Good In A Plastic Bag? Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough surface. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. Bathtubs are great to enjoy a relaxing bath whenever you feel tired. Plastic is a popular material for bathtubs and shower enclosures as it's known for being durable, making it ideal for daily use. Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. Rub the paste over the yellowed surround. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Abrasive cleaners include any commercial products that are not clearly labeled "nonabrasive" or as safe for acrylic or plastic as well as DIY cleaners, such as baking soda scrubs. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. Scrub all of the surfaces of the bathtub using a scrub sponge or a stiff nylon brush that has been dipped in the bucket. It works to gently exfoliate away dirt and grime while being safe for use on most surfaces. If you're using a commercial bathtub cleaner, especially a heavy-duty bathtub cleaner or household bleach, always wear protective gloves and ideally open bathroom windows and doors for ventilation. 2 Step 2. Step 3. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. Dont worry if your plastic tub surround looks old because the right cleaning solutions will make it look brand new. Use a caulk tool or a plastic spoon to work the sealant into the joint. Vinegar may take time to cut through grease, so it can be left for several minutes before being wiped away. This will help to effectively remove the yellowing from the plastic and leave it with a white finish. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. 5 Step 5. How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround Tub Cleaner Bathroom Cleaner Shower Cleaner Fiberglass Shower Pan Remove Yellow Stains Plastic Bathtub Cleaning Household Cleaning Tips Regular Cleaning More information . How to Clean the Surround of a Plastic Bathtub When cleaning a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions. Chlorine is very harmful if its not handled properly. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround | BEFORE & AFTER FIBERGLASS REFINISHING @DIYPowerCouple Subscribe for more DIY! Scatter baking soda on all of the surfaces of the tub. These directions will typically instruct you to spray or wipe the product generously over the surfaces, then let it sit for a certain amount of time before rinsing it off with water. 2. Then, use a scouring brush to scrub off the moldy spots. More things Cut through your drywall along the edges with a Sawzall. Simply cleaning it will remove any stains caused by harsh water. For tough stains, scrub the area with cream cleanser solutions to dissolve the stains. But it should be used carefully as it can damage some surfaces if not handled properly. The first step in restoring plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures has to be a deep clean. When cleaning a plastic bathtub surround, vinegar( lemon juice) is an effective option that may be used. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. Then, take an old toothbrush (or whatever your preferred brush is), and scrub the sides of your bathtub. You may remove the yellowing from the plastic that lines your tub by utilizing items from both your own house and from a hardware shop. You never know what bacteria could breed in the damp and humid surfaces in these areas. Step 1. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. Allow it to set for up to one hour. How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. Required fields are marked *. 6. Once youve scrubbed the desired area thoroughly, rinse away any remaining residue with cold water. After waiting an hour, use a towel or sponge to massage the area. Professional cleaners can help you get rid of the dirt in your bathtub, and keep it looking great. Rust stain-approved cleaners often stain fabrics. Along with choosing the right type of bathtub for your home, it's crucial to know how to properly clean the type of tub you have or else you risk potentially making things worse. Either spray white vinegar all over the tub surround with a spray bottle or soak a cloth in the vinegar, then rub it over the surfaces of the tub before washing it out. Oven cleaner: let sit for one hour. The acidic content in lemon water actually cleans the tub most effectively; also, the anti-bacterial property of lemon juice prevents unpleasant odor after cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. Ensure to take a look at the label for important details like non-abrasive and whether its suitable for materials such as plastic, ABS, polystyrene or acrylic. How do you whiten plastic shower walls? Call a professional cleaner You have to read this! Lemon water 6. Hand sanitizer 7. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. When you clean your bathtub, you should start by emptying your bathtub. Plastic bathtubs are durable and long-lasting. Then, rinse it all with water. Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. Less than $20 Step 1: Remove the old caulk and clean the joint Photo 1: Loosen the old caulk Push a razor scraper in all the way under both edges of the old caulk bead to release its grip. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Mix an ounce in a gallon of water and scrub with a sponge or plastic scrubbing pad. Don't pry the caulk with the scraper because you could break off the razor blade. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff bristle brushes to clean fiberglass surrounds. Your email address will not be published. Step 1. Allow this to sit for ten minutes, or for the amount of time that is specified on the label of the box. Make use of a bristle brush to collect debris in the crevices and along the borders of the bathtub. Begin by mixing two tablespoons of dish detergent into one gallon of warm water in a spray bottle, stirring thoroughly until fully combined. Finally, flush it with water to get rid of any residue left by the acid in the lemon. This makes them feel rather uninviting and can give your entire bathroom an old, worn-out vibe. Two different BKF products are used by our supporters to remove stains from the plastic containers they use.The traditional powder cleaner known as Bar Keepers Friend, as well as our MORE Spray + Foam.A recent study at a science fair demonstrated that BKF materials are safe to use on a variety of surfaces; nevertheless, it is important to note that both compounds have the potential to etch or dull some plastics. Step 6. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Scrub with a brush to loosen the stains, then flush all of it off with water. Spray a large amount of a bathroom cleaner that contains bleach and is advertised as being effective against soap scum on the fiberglass or tile that is found in the shower enclosure. Step 3. However, Acrylic is a preferred choice for bathtub surrounds, and for a solid reason. Diluted bleach is another great option for cleaning bathtub surrounds. The Process of Cleaning Your Shower The Grime on the Tray. Combine baking soda and water to create a paste similar in consistency to toothpaste. Plastic bathtubs can be cleaned thoroughly with the right cleaning tools and proper technique. When cleaning a plastic or ABS tub enclosure there are certain products that should be avoided. Step 2. 4 Step 4. Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. Check the area around the tubs borders to see whether it is thinner there; if it is, this may be a sign that the tub is made of acrylic. Bathroomer: How to Clean Plastic Bathtubs and Keep Them White as New, Family Handyman: How to Clean Bathtub Stains. Whether your tub surround needs a basic wipe down or a significant scrubbing with a heavy-duty bathtub cleaner, there's no getting around the physical effort involved. This sort of deep clean may not go far enough in terms of restoring shine to an older plastic tub or shower, but it should be the first step anyway as it's important to thoroughly remove dirt before going in with other solutions. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the rounded tiles from the top of the tub surround. Spray the lemon water on the tub and leave it there until evening, or for a whole night. Apply a light coat of white auto cream wax to the entire surround with a cotton cloth. Mild dish soap can also be used to clean the plastic tub surround as it is gentle yet effective for removing dirt and grime. Vinegar is commonly used to clean tubs because its acidic properties soften soap scum, allowing it to be easily brushed away. This method utilizes baking soda, white vinegar, dish soap, and hot water to create an effective cleaning solution that cuts through tough grime on plastic tub surrounds. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, melamine sponges, and commercial abrasive cleaning products, along with solvents. These directions will typically instruct you to spray or wipe the product generously over the surfaces, then let it sit for a certain amount of time before rinsing it off with water. They can do a wide range of things: removing grease and grime, removing rust, and so on. 3 Step 3. The fourth step is to wipe away. However, they tend to accumulate stains over time. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. In this video I will show you my natural, chemicals free way to clean your textured fiberglass or plastic shower floor and make it white and clean again using baking soda and white vinegar.. These usually come in the form of spray-on coatings. Alternatively, for extra-stubborn stains, you can use a combination of warm water and vinegar to clean your tub. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge. Some brands of enamel and fiberglass cleaner and polish products are abrasive, while others are not. In order to do so, pour a generous amount of peroxide into the bathtub. Cleaning liquid, or bathroom cleaner, is a very common cleaning agent. You don't necessarily need to rule out use of enamel or fiberglass tub cleaner and polish nor heavy-duty bathtub cleaners, as there's a chance they are safe to use on plastic too. Put on protective gloves before handling any bleach solution, as this will protect your skin from any splashes or spills that may occur during the cleaning process. Then use a damp rag to scrub away the baking soda and rinse the tub. Alternative cleaning products suitable for use on a plastic tub surround include dish soap, white vinegar and household bleach. More things. Vinegar, lemon juice, all-purpose cleaner, and baking soda paste can be used for ultimate cleanliness. This will help loosen the dirt and grime before you clean the tub. Spray the tub surround with the cleaner. https://goo.gl/2Trdac Show more Shop the DIY Power Couple store DIY. Remember, Its important to know the right way of using chemicals. Spray all of your tub's surfaces, including cracks, crevices and hardware. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Step 1 - Remove Excess Dirt From Fiberglass. Tools you should never use include steel wool, scouring pads and melamine sponges. Baking soda and vinegar 5. By doing this, you can create a paste that you can use to scrub your bathtub. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Cleaning liquid 9. See a detailed demo at http://formula101.tvCleaning the tub is one of the most daunting tasks. Then, rinse clean with hot water. Wear your protective gear Required fields are marked *. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. There are so many brands available in the market. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to remove wine stains from ceramic bathtubs. Required fields are marked *. Manage Settings It is your source for tips, tricks, cleaning tools, and anything related to cleaning that will help you live a cleaner lifestyle. Rinse and wipe clean after 30 minutes or an hour after applying the paste. Make a paste of equal parts cleanser powder and water. Bleach should be diluted in water with approximately equal parts of each, sprayed or wiped on the surfaces and then rinsed with water. These leave scratches that attract dirt and make the surround difficult to clean. If the dirt is particularly stubborn and difficult to remove, it may be wise to use something more abrasive like a terry cloth towel. Drain the water and use a rag to get rid of any residue. The bleach should be diluted in water with roughly the same amount of each component. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Solvents: Its really important to remember not to use solvents like mineral spirits, acetone and turpentine on any type of plastic surface. Rub this paste into the stains and give it about half an hour to take effect. If the paint spill is relatively fresh, you might be able to get rid of a good amount of it by flushing the spill with hot water. Drain and pat dry. Most important, you should never use chemicals or abrasive materials on acrylic plastic. Lemon remains to be an excellent natural cleaner. Step 4 Sprinkle baking soda onto the tub's surfaces and use the wet sponge to scrub it in gently. Step 2. The last thing you want to do is cause more damage to the tub by trying to clean it yourself. Its important to wear the proper safety equipment when cleaning with a chemical in a plastic tub in order to protect yourself from potential damage. If you're dealing with a dirty tub, you've come to the right place. Rinse cleaning. To clean your tub, start by flushing it out with hot water. After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Step 8. Spray the tub surround with the. Cleaning a plastic tub surround is never easy because one wrong move and your shiny new bathtub could look worse with scratches. Chlorine 3. Step 3. Let us share all the details on how to keep your plastic tub looking as good as new. Repeat as many times as required to completely remove the stain. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Pesky, caked-on stains in your plastic bathtub got you down? Harsh chemical cleaners: Harsh chemical cleaners like oven cleaner or drain cleaner are also not suitable for plastic material. 2 Step 2. Spray purified or ordinary tap water onto the cleaning powder. 4 Step 4. Once done, wash away any remaining substance with clean water. 3 Step 3. After spraying or wiping the bleach over the surfaces, you should follow up with a water rinse. Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge, Make use of a bristle brush to collect debris in the crevices and along the borders of the bathtub, We strongly suggest that you clean your acrylic bathing product that was manufactured using Delta ProCrylic or Acrylic with Innovex Technology with non-abrasive soaps and detergents, such as: Dishwashing detergent, Cleaner for the bathroom and kitchen by CLR. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. After it has dried, use an old toothbrush and some warm water to gently scrub this mixture (and the limescale) away. Step 3. After spraying the vinegar at full power on the stains and allowing it to sit for a few minutes, scrub the area to remove the vinegar. Otherwise, you could get sick and potentially make other members of your family sick as well. Scatter a small amount of baking soda all over the tub and let it sit for at least five minutes or more depending on the severity of the stains. Thorough weekly cleanings, occasional stain removal and semi-annual waxing help whiten the plastic and bring back the luster of the tub surround. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Most people leave it as the very last part of their home to clean.Because even when you put vim, or clorox, or powdered bath cleaner on, you still have to scrub!That all changes today.Formula 101 is an Eco Friendly Cleaning System that can melt the soap scum off your surround tub in seconds. Ammonia cleansers are able to thoroughly clean any and all bathtubs and showers without causing any damage to the fiberglass. You might think that cleaning your bathtub is something you can do on your own, but youre wrong. Using a good bathroom cleaner and a soft cloth with warm water is the best way to remove the bulk of your bathtub's dirt and grime. To use chlorine to clean a bathtub, you can simply sprinkle chlorine to a bathtub that has stains. Vinegar will not damage a plastic tub surround when used for cleaning purposes. Discard the towels in a trash bag. Turn on the shower and direct the flow of water to the walls. Simply fill the tub with equal parts water and vinegar and allow this solution to sit for at least 15 minutes. Acetone or turpentine. How To Make Plastic Pots Look Like Ceramic? Create a paste for cleaning the bathtub by mixing one part baking soda with two parts hydrogen peroxide (or cream of tartar). Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. Increase the ventilation in your bathroom. Step 1 Remove fabric shower curtains, rugs and spare towels from the bathroom before cleaning the tub. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Although it can be tempting to use an abrasive scrubber, Delta Faucet explains that they can cause lasting damage to the plastic. Cleaning a plastic bathtub is a different process than cleaning a porcelain or fiberglass tub. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Rinse away all traces of bleach residue using clean water after each application until all stains are gone. There are a variety of commercial bathroom cleaners that are suitable for use on vinyl tub enclosures, including dish soap, laundry detergent, soft gel or cream cleansers that are not abrasive, and many others. Turn the water off. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. When cleaning a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. Plastic tub surrounds usually wipe clean easily because they feature a smooth surface with no grout lines to collect dirt. Wipe of the excess with a clean rag. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.