great option for cleaning bathtub surrounds, How to Clean Cat Urine from Bathtub: 6 DIY Methods [Hygienic], How to Clean a Bathtub Without Hurting Your Back: 3 Methods [Cautions], How to Remove Candle Wax from a Bathtub: DIY 3 Steps [Super Easy], How to Remove Adhesive From Fiberglass Tub: 4 Methods [With Steps], How to Remove Toilet Bowl Cleaner Stain From Bathtub | 5 DIY Methods, How to Clean Coconut Oil From Bathtub | Only 5 DIY Steps, How To Clean Calcium Buildup In Bathtub: 4 Methods [Proven], Can You Use Oven Cleaner On A Bathtub: 7 DIY Steps [Solved]. More things Once done scrubbing, use clean water to wash away any residual soap residue. Pesky, caked-on stains in your plastic bathtub got you down? Ammonia cleansers are able to thoroughly clean any and all bathtubs and showers without causing any damage to the fiberglass. How Long Does Weed Stay Good In A Plastic Bag? Vinegar that has been distilled. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. Limescale and other mineral deposits can grip onto your plastic tub or shower and cause it to look dingy and dull. You might let the vinegar or bleach sit on the surfaces for 15 or more minutes before scrubbing and rinsing for extra cleansing power. Dry the surround after every use to prevent discoloration and yellowing. Rinse and wipe clean after 30 minutes or an hour after applying the paste. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. Mix an ounce in a gallon of water and scrub with a sponge or plastic scrubbing pad. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. [1] Avoid abrasive cleansers like scouring powders. Acetone: wipe the acetone on the plastic with a soft cloth to remove stains caused by dye, paint or pigments. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the rounded tiles from the top of the tub surround. 3 Step 3. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Allow it to set for up to one hour. It just so happened that we would be posting exclusively about ways to clean algae and remove algae from water today, but you should know it wasnt exactly our aim. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Spray all of your tub's surfaces, including cracks, crevices and hardware. Step 4. Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. Before attempting this process, the plastic should be thoroughly cleaned and dried. To begin this process, you will need to prepare the mixture by combining one part vinegar and one part baking soda together in a bowl. Wet a clean cloth with the soapy solution and use it to wash your newly whitened tub surround. Despite pricey natural stone or tile with difficult-to-clean grout lines, Acrylic has a smooth surface that complements any look and feels and is easy to clean. Overstock recommends mixing a solution of equal parts vinegar and water and using a spray bottle to apply it all over your plastic bathroom fitting. Step 3. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. Rinse with clear water and wipe dry. How To Make Plastic Pots Look Like Ceramic? There are so many brands available in the market. Vinegar, dish soap, bleach solution, DIY degreaser, baking soda, and all-purpose cleaners are some of the best ways to clean a plastic tub surround. However, the plastic, which is actually a reinforced plastic fiberglass composite, can develop yellowing as it ages. Its acidic substances can help to remove stubborn dirt, soap scum, and other debris from the surface. With your fingers or a clean, soft cloth, apply the baking soda paste over the greasy surfaces. Bleach is powerful enough to remove tough stains from plastic tub surrounds that cannot be removed with regular dish soap alone. To clean a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, follow the manufacturer's directions, which will generally tell you to spray or wipe the product liberally over the surfaces, let it sit for a certain amount of time and then rinse with water. See a detailed demo at http://formula101.tvCleaning the tub is one of the most daunting tasks. You can also use a more intense cleaner like a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on any areas where you begin to see buildup. 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.. Baking soda and vinegar 5. Yellowed plastic can be whitened by using cream peroxide or tartar. Rub the paste over the yellowed surround. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Spray the area, then wipe it off with a sponge, reserving the remaining solution to use on mirrors, windows, and other surfaces. 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.. Step 5. 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. Mix dishwasher detergent and water into the bathtub or bucket. It can be really frustrating to attempt to clean the bathtub yourself. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. [18] They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. This makes them feel rather uninviting and can give your entire bathroom an old, worn-out vibe. Here's how to clean a plastic bathtub using a few tried-and-true methods and ingredients. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub 1. The chemical reaction will continue until the stain is almost entirely gone. Required fields are marked *. Make a thick paste of baking soda similar to peanut butter or toothpaste consistency. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. Rinse off the baking soda paste with some fresh water and enjoy your newly refreshed plastic tub surround. Surrounds only require waxing twice a year to look good. Then, rub or wipe the surface of the tub with some rubbing alcohol on a wet paper towel or cotton ball to remove stains or mildew. They are gentle on the surface of the plastic tub, so no damage will be caused by using them. Plastic bathtubs can be cleaned thoroughly with the right cleaning tools and proper technique. All-purpose cleaners are a great option for cleaning hard stains on plastic tub enclosures as they contain ingredients that remove grease and other stubborn stains efficiently. I use vinegar on mine, but living alone and being neat and tidy helps, in a household with lots of people, not as easy. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. When cleaning a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions. Hydrogen peroxide whitens your tub, and it will also bleach fabric. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. Step 1. 5 Step 5. Remember, Its important to know the right way of using chemicals. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub, how to get rid of urine smell in bathroom. Don't pry the caulk with the scraper because you could break off the razor blade. Cleaning a plastic tub surround does not have to be hard or time-consuming if done properly. Dont worry! After that, flush it with water to remove any stains from the bathtub. Homemade cleansers, such as a combination of baking soda and water or trisodium phosphate and water, are another option that does not pose any health risks. Video of the Day Step 2 Move the shower curtain and any fabric items such as bath mats, towels and washcloths, into a safe location. Spray the lemon water on the tub and leave it there until evening, or for a whole night. Make a paste with water and scrub the stall with a sponge or plastic applicator. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to CleanCurious! Commercial all-purpose cleaners are typically safe to use on plastic tub surrounds as they are formulated specifically for this purpose. Let it stand for 10 minutes. By doing this, you can create a paste that you can use to scrub your bathtub. Simply pour some white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it over the greasy tub surface. 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. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. They are highly absorbent and can easily collect dirt, dust, and grime without leaving behind streaking or residue. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. To clean a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, follow the manufacturer's directions, which will generally tell you to spray or wipe the product liberally over the surfaces, let it sit for a certain amount of time and then rinse with water. Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. Dishwashing detergent. Step 1 Fill a spray bottle with 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, which is found in drugstores or convenience stores for a minimal price. Create a paste for cleaning the bathtub by mixing one part baking soda with two parts hydrogen peroxide (or cream of tartar). Scrub if necessary and then rinse with plain water. Then, rinse it all with water. When you're applying the bead, use a constant, steady speed to avoid an uneven finish. 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. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Instead of doing that, call out a professional cleaning service to handle it for you! 4 Step 4. On the other hand, as time passes, the plastic, which is in reality a composite made of reinforced plastic and fiberglass, might turn yellow. Wearing protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks will decrease the chances of your skin getting irritated or damaging your vital body part such as the eye. Begin by mixing two tablespoons of dish detergent into one gallon of warm water in a spray bottle, stirring thoroughly until fully combined. With the addition of moisture, the powder will take on a thick, foamy consistency. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. The bubbles produced by hydrogen peroxide also make it more efficient at removing dirty stains than using just water would. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. If you are planning to clean your acrylic tub using a ready-made cleaner, you need to read the label very carefully to make sure that the cleaner wont scratch the surface of the tub. Required fields are marked *. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. After spraying or wiping the bleach over the surfaces, you should follow up with a water rinse. Scrub until the stains disappear. Simply cleaning it will remove any stains caused by harsh water. Plastic bathtubs can be stained and dirty easily because theyre in contact with water and water alone. By emptying the tub first, you will be able to access all the corners of your bathtub and clean it thoroughly. Create a bleach solution by mixing two tablespoons of bleach into two cups of water in a bowl or bucket. If you're using dish soap, mix a generous squeeze of the soap into a basin of warm water; soak your cloth, sponge or other tool in the soapy water; and apply it all over the tub surround. The use of a paste made of dish soap and baking soda, which should be kept on the stain for at least an hour before being washed out with vinegar and hot water, is recommended by a number of specialists. You do not want a dirty and moldy bathtub in your house, since it does not only affect the appearance of your house, it is also unhygienic. Turn on the shower and direct the flow of water to the walls. It can help to sanitize the surface but should never be used in its concentrated form because it can damage the plastic surface. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. Their uneven texture can still lead to light scratching which ruins the appearance of a smooth finish on a bathtub surrounding area. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Professional cleaners can help you get rid of the dirt in your bathtub, and keep it looking great. These leave scratches that attract dirt and make the surround difficult to clean. Let us share all the details on how to keep your plastic tub looking as good as new. Step 1. 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. Step 1. Solvents, which you should never use on plastic tub surrounds, include mineral spirits, turpentine and acetone. 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. 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. Cleaning your plastic bathtub and other surfaces in and around your bathroom is critical to your health. Chlorine could be an effective solution for getting rid of those stains from the bathtub. How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Spray the soapy mixture onto the plastic tub surround and let it sit for at least five minutes before scrubbing. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. CLR will certainly help. Drain and pat dry. Dish soap 8. Always remember to wear protective gear when using harsh chemicals! After waiting an hour, use a towel or sponge to massage the area. Cleaning products vary considerably in their ingredients even from the same brand, so just be sure to double-check before using these products on plastic. Definitely dont use commercial abrasive cleaning products or solvents either. 2. You can also use shampoo or body soap. Your email address will not be published. Dish soap, preferably Dawn or your preferred brand, Cleaner for the Bathroom and the Kitchen by CLR. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. Chlorine destroys stains by further dissolving them into smaller particles that will then be easier to flush or scrub off. Use a caulk tool or a plastic spoon to work the sealant into the joint. Step 1. Bleach should be diluted in water with approximately equal parts of each, sprayed or wiped on the surfaces and then rinsed with water. Rub the whiting into any scratched areas on the surround, then wipe off the excess. Apply the Paste. Allow the plastic tub surround to dry completely before being used again afterward. Therefore it should always be avoided when cleaning any type of plastic tub surround surface. Repeat as many times as required to completely remove the stain. Acetone or turpentine. Step 2 - Venitlate room. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. For tough stains, scrub the area with cream cleanser solutions to dissolve the stains. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. Rub the surface of the tub as thoroughly as possible. To use chlorine to clean a bathtub, you can simply sprinkle chlorine to a bathtub that has stains. Let it sit on the surface for 10 minutes. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. Method 1 Using Natural Products 1 Fill the tub with hot water and vinegar. 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. The Process of Cleaning Your Shower The Grime on the Tray. Your email address will not be published. After that, spray the solution over the glass door of your shower and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Rinse with clear water. Once you're satisfied your tub is as clean as possible, you can work on removing mineral buildup, which masks shine. Chlorine 3. 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. Step 1 Remove fabric shower curtains, rugs and spare towels from the bathroom before cleaning the tub. You can repeat this process as often as needed until your tub is shiny and sparkling clean. Allow this to sit for ten minutes, or for the amount of time that is specified on the label of the box. Harsh chemical cleaners: Harsh chemical cleaners like oven cleaner or drain cleaner are also not suitable for plastic material. You can also wet a clean sponge or washcloth and use it to rub in the cleaner until it thickens. It's downright impossible to enjoy a nice bath when you can see dirt, soap scum, and other types of stains in your tub, and if left unchecked, bacteria in your plastic bathtub can lead to health concerns. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. Create a paste by adding 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to a bowl. 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. 5. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub, How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs. Wet a soft nylon brush with warm water. If there are stains, you might not know what can remove them. 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. Don't assume enamel and fiberglass tub cleaners and polishes are suitable for plastic as well. Steel Wool: A steel wool pad in particular is especially damaging as its coarseness makes it too abrasive even when trying to remove tough grime. How to Clean a Glass Coffee Pot: 7 Simple Tips! Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge. These usually come in the form of spray-on coatings. They advise that you use the magic eraser with an oven cleaning to get the best results. Cut through your drywall along the edges with a Sawzall. To erase stains on the plastic that were created by dye, paint, or pigments, wipe these solvents over the surface with a soft cloth. The plastic should be placed inside the container. Call a professional cleaner You have to read this! Steps for cleaning plastic tub surrounded with dish soap: Step 1. Doing so will loosen soaps and other products, facilitating the cleaning process. Spread baking soda or a gentle cleaning agent over the entirety of the bathtub, then wait anywhere from five to ten minutes for it to take effect. If the dirt is particularly stubborn and difficult to remove, it may be wise to use something more abrasive like a terry cloth towel. With white vinegar, spray it all over the tub surround or soak your cloth with the vinegar and wipe it over the surfaces before rinsing. For cleaning your plastic bathtub, rubbing alcohol is the best you can use. Bathtubs are covered in dirt and germs, which can cause all sorts of nasty problems. Be sure to rinse the rag often to get rid of soap residue. Spray purified or ordinary tap water onto the cleaning powder. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. The dirt caused by these chemicals and treatments could stick to the tub and become a permanent stain. The key to keeping it that way is through daily shower maintenance. When cleaning with chlorine, always wear protective gear like masks, hats, gloves, and glasses. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Wipe gently and slowly and dont apply pressure or use any sharp and hard objects and materials to rub the tub. Painting on the Surrounding of an Acrylic Tub, How to Make Stained Kitchen Cabinets Look Shiny Again, How to Remove Hard Water Stains in a Porcelain Toilet, Michigan State University: Cleaning Fiberglass Sinks and Tubs, University of Nebraska: Cleaning Fiberglass Tubs and Showers, Beautiful houseplants that also repel mosquitoes, cockroaches and other pests, How to Clean and Restore a Worn Fiberglass Shower Base. Hand sanitizer 7. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Required fields are marked *. This will help to effectively remove the yellowing from the plastic and leave it with a white finish. 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. Manage Settings Removing any suds and dirt before they have a chance to set on the plastic will make them far easier to get rid of. 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. The fourth step is to wipe away. Scouring Pads: Scouring pads, too, could cause scratching due to their rough texture so these should not be used either. The walls of the shower should be sprayed with the vinegar and water cleaning, and a suitable amount should be applied.Give the solution at least half an hour to take effect before interrupting it.Leave it alone for up to an hour in order to remove more stubborn hard water stains and soap scum accumulation. They have the potential to leave behind residues that could harm the material. Step 1 - Remove Excess Dirt From Fiberglass. Alternatively, for extra-stubborn stains, you can use a combination of warm water and vinegar to clean your tub. Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. Dont worry if your plastic tub surround looks old because the right cleaning solutions will make it look brand new. 2 Step 2. 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. Acrylic bathtubs are typically available in a wider variety of colors than fiberglass bathtubs, which are typically only available in white. Vinegar, dish soap, bleach solution, DIY degreaser, baking soda, and all-purpose cleaners are some of the best ways to clean a plastic tub surround. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff bristle brushes to clean fiberglass surrounds. Head to your pantry and pull out a natural-cleaning classic white vinegar then follow these simple steps: Fill a spray bottle with a half-and-half solution of vinegar and warm water. Chlorine isnt just used to disinfect water. Step 4. 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. The coating provides protection against discoloration from ultraviolet rays. If you want to use a commercial product, consider all-purpose cleaners or bathroom-specific cleaners. Follow the directions on the back of the tube for cure time. Moisten the eraser sponge with hot water and scrub. Scatter baking soda on all of the surfaces of the tub. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Using either a terry cloth towel or microfiber cloth, scrub the surface of the tub surround until all dirt and grime have been removed. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. 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. Then, rinse clean with hot water. Instead, use a cleaner designed specifically for tubs and tiles if the tub is really grimy. Steer clear of steel wool, scouring pads, and melamine sponges can scratch the surface. Make sure to only use nonabrasive products on it, and you will keep the plastic tub surround looking clean and in good condition for as long as possible. Step 8. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. Chlorine is very harmful if its not handled properly. 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. 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 can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. Soft sponges are also useful for cleaning plastic tub surrounds as their shape makes them ideal for reaching into corners and other areas that might otherwise go uncleaned. Spray the tub surround with the. Using a scrubbing brush, scrub the tub until its cleaned. Rinse cleaning. Diluted bleach is another great option for cleaning bathtub surrounds. Spray . Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround.