The Right Way to Clean a Bathtub, From Porcelain to Fiberglass

Few things are more relaxing than a soothing bath, but if your tub is visibly dirty, it can quickly make the experience less than enjoyable. If not cleaned regularly, the bathtub can build up with soap scum, bacteria, and even mildew, which can make it look dingy. Luckily, most bathtub materials, including porcelain, fiberglass, stone resin, and acrylic, can be cleaned using household ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and water.

How Often to Clean Your Bathtub

You should aim to deep clean your bathtub and shower at least bi-weekly to prevent the buildup of soap scum and mildew, says Katie Dills, brand president of The Cleaning Authority. In between deep cleans, it's beneficial to wipe down your bathtub once a week, especially if you use it daily.

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning a bathtub.

• Bowl
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber cloth(s)
• Water
• Baking soda
• Dish soap
• Distilled white vinegar

How to Clean an Acrylic Bathtub

Acrylic is a delicate material and should be cleaned carefully. "We recommend checking your owner’s manual for any specific tips," says Jennifer Parnell, the co-founder of Humble Suds. "Never use bleach or a harsh chemical on acrylic as it will damage it."

1. Wet the bathtub with warm water.
2. In a bowl, mix baking soda, water, and a drop of dish soap until a paste forms.
3. Apply the paste to the wet bathtub with a sponge and gently rub in circular motions.
4. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes.
5. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth dampened with hot water.
6. Rinse the bathtub to remove any remaining residue.

How to Clean a Porcelain Bathtub

A porcelain bathtub can be cleaned similarly to an acrylic bathtub, says Parnell. Be careful to avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals like bleach, which can strip the surface layer.

1. Wet the bathtub with warm water.
2. In a bowl, mix baking soda, water, and a drop of dish soap until a paste forms.
3. Apply the paste to the wet bathtub with a sponge and gently rub in circular motions.
4. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes.
5. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth dampened with hot water.
6. Rinse the bathtub to remove any remaining residue.

How to Clean a Fiberglass Bathtub

Fiberglass tubs can be cleaned with baking soda, water, and distilled white vinegar, says Dills.

1. Wet the bathtub with warm water.
2. In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white distilled vinegar and warm water.
3. Spray the bathtub with the mixture.
4. Sprinkle baking soda on your tub and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
5. With a microfiber cloth, scrub the baking soda thoroughly until clean.
6. Rinse the bathtub with warm water to remove any remaining residue.

How to Clean a Stone Resin Bathtub

Avoid using acidic cleaners on your stone resin surfaces, as the acidity can corrode the finish, says Dills. Instead, opt for a mixture of water and dish soap.

1. Wet the bathtub with warm water.
2. In a bowl, combine warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
3. Scrub the bathtub with a microfiber cloth or soft sponge
4. Rinse the bathtub with warm water to remove any remaining residue and dry thoroughly.

How to Remove Stains From a Bathtub

Most bathtub stains can be removed by creating a paste from baking soda and water, says Dills.

1. In a bowl, mix baking soda and water until a paste forms.
2. Apply the paste to the stain.
3. Let the paste sit for 15 minutes.
4. Scrub the stain with a microfiber cloth.
5. Rinse with warm water.
   

Tips for Maintaining Your Bathtub

Keep these tips in mind to ensure your bathtub stays sparkling in between deep cleans.

1. Rinse out the bath after every use and do a quick wipe of the walls of the tub, says Parnell.
2. Spray a mild all-purpose cleaner and wipe clean in between deep cleans. 
3. Treat stains as soon as you notice them. 
4. Do not clean tubs with abrasive tools or harsh chemicals. 
5. Turn on the exhaust fan while bathing and leave it running for 20 minutes after using your bathtub to absorb excess moisture in the air, says Parnell.
6. After showering, use a squeegee to dry your tub, says Dills.