Scrub clean with a rag. Cleaning a plastic tub surround is never easy because one wrong move and your shiny new bathtub could look worse with scratches. You can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. After that, spray the solution over the glass door of your shower and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Make sure all of the surfaces that you want to clean are wet. Steer clear of steel wool, scouring pads, and melamine sponges can scratch the surface. Acetone or turpentine. After it has dried, use an old toothbrush and some warm water to gently scrub this mixture (and the limescale) away. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. Pick up some painter's tape and use it to mask off the seam to help make cleaning up easier. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. 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. See a detailed demo at http://formula101.tvCleaning the tub is one of the most daunting tasks. 1. Rub the paste over the yellowed surround. Once done scrubbing, use clean water to wash away any residual soap residue. Their uneven texture can still lead to light scratching which ruins the appearance of a smooth finish on a bathtub surrounding area. Let us share all the details on how to keep your plastic tub looking as good as new. 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 will help loosen the dirt and grime before you clean the tub. Using either a terry cloth towel or microfiber cloth, scrub the surface of the tub surround until all dirt and grime have been removed. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. Discard the towels in a trash bag. Repeat this procedure until the tub is clean. How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. However, Acrylic is a preferred choice for bathtub surrounds, and for a solid reason. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day. The most recent accessory to be added to your collection of tools for cleaning glass is Mr. Rinse with clear water and wipe dry. 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. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff bristle brushes to clean fiberglass surrounds. Chlorine 3. Step 3 Professional cleaners can help you get rid of the dirt in your bathtub, and keep it looking great. Proper maintenance ensures that your plastic tub will stay in perfect condition. Step 3. The resulting solution should then be stirred with a spoon until it is completely blended together. Keeping your bathtub or shower looking clean and shiny should mean you don't need to worry about restoring it nearly as often. Step 4. You can also wet a clean sponge or washcloth and use it to rub in the cleaner until it thickens. Baking soda. 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. Method 1 Using Natural Products 1 Fill the tub with hot water and vinegar. https://goo.gl/2Trdac Show more Shop the DIY Power Couple store DIY. Do you want to get rid of all that unattractive residue? How to Clean Your Surround Tub and Make it Shine! Solvents, which you should never use on plastic tub surrounds, include mineral spirits, turpentine and acetone. The hand sanitizer will dissolve the mildew stains, and get rid of them for good. The third step is to spray the mixture. Remember, Its important to know the right way of using chemicals. After letting it sit for several minutes, use a soft cloth or sponge dipped in warm water and gently scrub away at the stain until it has been removed. Therefore it should always be avoided when cleaning any type of plastic tub surround surface. Cleaning a tub surround can seem like a daunting task because there's generally a lot of area to cover, although the surround doesn't tend to get as dirty as the tub itself. Scrub with a brush to loosen the stains, then flush all of it off with water. I use vinegar on mine, but living alone and being neat and tidy helps, in a household with lots of people, not as easy. 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. They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Although it can be tempting to use an abrasive scrubber, Delta Faucet explains that they can cause lasting damage to the plastic. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. 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. 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. 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. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to remove wine stains from ceramic bathtubs. 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. 3 Step 3. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. It is not required to replace the tub surround since it is expensive to do so, and unless you need or want to spend that sort of money, you should not replace the tub surround. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. Luckily, there are several methods to restore shine to plastic bathroom units at home. Repeat the wiping process with a fresh microfiber towel. 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.. Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. Alcohol 2. A mixture of water and vinegar. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This will almost certainly cause scratches and other damage to your tub. Chlorine could be an effective solution for getting rid of those stains from the bathtub. Step 2. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. After spraying or wiping the bleach over the surfaces, you should follow up with a water rinse. Create a paste for cleaning the bathtub by mixing one part baking soda with two parts hydrogen peroxide (or cream of tartar). Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. They advise that you use the magic eraser with an oven cleaning to get the best results. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. For an even more refreshing smell, you can swap out the vinegar for some lovely lemon juice. 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. It is your source for tips, tricks, cleaning tools, and anything related to cleaning that will help you live a cleaner lifestyle. 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. Rub the whiting into any scratched areas on the surround, then wipe off the excess. The dirt caused by these chemicals and treatments could stick to the tub and become a permanent stain. Step 2 - Venitlate room. Step 1. Cleaning liquid, or bathroom cleaner, is a very common cleaning agent. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough surface. Rinse off the baking soda paste with some fresh water and enjoy your newly refreshed plastic tub surround. 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. This particular one is quite easy to understand. Chlorine is very harmful if its not handled properly. Your email address will not be published. Your email address will not be published. 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. Spray purified or ordinary tap water onto the cleaning powder. Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. Rinse multiple times and wipe completely to prevent streaks. 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 4 Sprinkle baking soda onto the tub's surfaces and use the wet sponge to scrub it in gently. 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. If required, carry out the procedure once more until the stain is removed. Then, rinse clean with hot water. Use a cloth to scrub the tub and finish removing the stains. Step 2. Dish soap is another effective cleaning solution for your plastic bathtub. Plastic bathtubs are durable and long-lasting. 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. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. Then, scrub the stain and mold away. When cleaning with chlorine, always wear protective gear like masks, hats, gloves, and glasses. After that, flush it with water to remove any stains from the bathtub. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. Pesky, caked-on stains in your plastic bathtub got you down? Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. That said, you'll want to try using baby shampoo and warm water first, as this is usually the most effective cleaning method: If you're tackling tough stains, it's important to have baking soda in your cleaning arsenal. Dissolved white vinegar in water. What Part Of The Mantle Bends Like Plastic? If your acrylic tub is heavily stained or dirty, consider filling the tub with hot water and vinegar. Additionally, acrylic is warmer to the touch than fiberglass, and the surfaces of bathtubs made of acrylic are smoother than those made of fiberglass. Doing so will loosen soaps and other products, facilitating the cleaning process. Before you rinse the area, clean it . Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Sometimes, chemicals and other treatments will be added to the water in order to help with the cleaning process and help treat injuries and wounds. Chlorine destroys stains by further dissolving them into smaller particles that will then be easier to flush or scrub off. Mild dish soap can also be used to clean the plastic tub surround as it is gentle yet effective for removing dirt and grime. They will come to your home and give it a quick thorough cleaning! Rinse with clear water. 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. Wet a soft nylon brush with warm water. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. Using circular motions around the entire surface area, slowly scrub away at tough stains until they are no longer visible on the surface. Chlorine isnt just used to disinfect water. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. 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. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. 5. Finally, flush it with water to get rid of any residue left by the acid in the lemon. Increase the ventilation in your bathroom. Scatter baking soda on all of the surfaces of the tub. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. 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.. The Process of Cleaning Your Shower The Grime on the Tray. They have the potential to leave behind residues that could harm the material. 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. 2 Step 2. Step 1 Remove fabric shower curtains, rugs and spare towels from the bathroom before cleaning the tub. How do you whiten plastic shower walls? You might think that cleaning your bathtub is something you can do on your own, but youre wrong. The plastic should be placed inside the container. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. Fill up your bathtub with two inches of hot water, and add one cup of hand sanitizer. 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. You can also use shampoo or body soap. Then, mix vinegar with water into a spray bottle and spray it on the stained area of your bathtub. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. No scrubbing necessary.Spray your tub with a capful of Formula 101 mixed with water, give it a wipe, rinse, and then you will see an unbelievable shine!Want to see what else Formula 101 works great on?Visit http://formula101.tv to see powerful natural cleaning in action. Step 1 Fill a spray bottle with 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, which is found in drugstores or convenience stores for a minimal price. Plastic is a popular material for bathtubs and shower enclosures as it's known for being durable, making it ideal for daily use. This will help to effectively remove the yellowing from the plastic and leave it with a white finish. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. Required fields are marked *. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. Finish by rinsing the bathtub completely. Your email address will not be published. Step 2. Rinse cleaning. Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. In fact, white vinegar is often used as an all-natural cleaner for removing mildew from surfaces like bathtubs and shower surrounds made of plastic materials. Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. Baking soda has strong de-greasing properties that can be used to clean oil or grease stains. If you want the best result, you can mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda. Jeffrey Dmytrowich 102 subscribers Subscribe 29 23K views 8 years ago See a detailed demo at http://formula101.tv Cleaning the tub is one of. Follow the directions on the back of the tube for cure time. Before you attempt to actually clean your fiberglass tub surround, rinse the material with clean water. After that, spray the solution over the glass door of your shower and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Allow the plastic tub surround to dry completely before being used again afterward. Rinse and dry. If you're dealing with a dirty tub, you've come to the right place. 2 Step 2. So what products can and should be used on acrylic plastic? Always remember to wear protective gear when using harsh chemicals! Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge. For cleaning your plastic bathtub, rubbing alcohol is the best you can use. How to Clean a Glass Coffee Pot: 7 Simple Tips! Begin by wetting the bathtub and pouring a few drops of shampoo on a damp rag. It can be really frustrating to attempt to clean the bathtub yourself. Your email address will not be published. Once ready, soak a microfiber cloth within this solution before scrubbing the plastic tub surrounding it gently. Commercial all-purpose cleaners are typically safe to use on plastic tub surrounds as they are formulated specifically for this purpose. Baking soda and vinegar are both common household ingredients. Step 3. After an hour go back inside and use a toilet brush to give the shower a gentle scrub and then rinse. Wet & Forget Shower is a weekly shower cleanser that does not require scrubbing and is kind to surfaces made of acrylic and fiberglass. The use of a magic eraser, according to a number of individuals, is the only approach that is capable of effectively cleaning a fiberglass shower. Luckily, this too is a problem that can be tackled with simple white vinegar. 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. 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. Warm up around 100 milliliters of white vinegar in the microwave until it is hot. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. 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. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. Let the vinegar stay on the tub for about 30 minutes. Alternative cleaning products suitable for use on a plastic tub surround include dish soap, white vinegar and household bleach. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. 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. It works to gently exfoliate away dirt and grime while being safe for use on most surfaces. Just make sure to choose a cleaning liquid made for plastic bathtubs, in case the chemical in the cleaning liquid is not compatible with plastic. Make a paste with water and scrub the stall with a sponge or plastic applicator. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. Apply a light coat of white auto cream wax to the entire surround with a cotton cloth. 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. 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. Don't pry the caulk with the scraper because you could break off the razor blade. By staying on top of your cleaning regimen, you can prolong the time in between deep cleans too. 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. Manage Settings These scuff marks are difficult to repair and could end up making your bathroom look even dirtier. Start from the top and work your way down. Imfoto/Shutterstock. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. With the addition of moisture, the powder will take on a thick, foamy consistency. If the dirt is particularly stubborn and difficult to remove, it may be wise to use something more abrasive like a terry cloth towel. More information How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround More like this Diy Cleaning Products Cleaning Household Rub the surface of the tub as thoroughly as possible. Wipe of the excess with a clean rag. 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. 6. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts baking soda to make a bathtub cleaning paste (or cream of tartar). Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Allow it to sit for several minutes to allow it to absorb any dirt or grime present on its surface. Required fields are marked *. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Drain the water and use a rag to get rid of any residue. Drain and pat dry. By doing this, you can create a paste that you can use to scrub your bathtub. Required fields are marked *. 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. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. Call a professional cleaner You have to read this! Bathtubs are covered in dirt and germs, which can cause all sorts of nasty problems. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the rounded tiles from the top of the tub surround. Thorough weekly cleanings, occasional stain removal and semi-annual waxing help whiten the plastic and bring back the luster of the tub surround. Cut through your drywall along the edges with a Sawzall. They are gentle on the surface of the plastic tub, so no damage will be caused by using them. You can use a dishwashing or liquid laundry detergent. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. However, it's important to check the label for the description "nonabrasive" and "suitable for acrylic, plastic, polystyrene, ABS, etc." 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. 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. Another tip of how to clean plastic bathtub is using your home ingredients. Step 2. This makes them feel rather uninviting and can give your entire bathroom an old, worn-out vibe. Acrylic that has been treated with Clean is algae-free and safe to use. To clean your tub, start by flushing it out with hot water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub, how to get rid of urine smell in bathroom. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive.Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough surface.To avoid the accumulation of soap scum and dirt, clean the shower once per week with a gentle cleaner and water.Wet & Forget Shower is a weekly shower cleanser that does not require scrubbing and is kind to surfaces made of acrylic and fiberglass. Scrub until the stains disappear. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. 3 Right Methods: How to Clean Hands After Touching Raw Chicken, 10 Smart Ideas: How to Dispose of Concrete. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. The first step in restoring plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures has to be a deep clean. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. Limescale and other mineral deposits can grip onto your plastic tub or shower and cause it to look dingy and dull. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. Baking soda works wonders when it comes to lifting hard dirt and other stains from acrylic plastic. Several of them will have a 30-year or longer lifetime. With your fingers or a clean, soft cloth, apply the baking soda paste over the greasy surfaces. A mixture of water and vinegar. Step 4. Your email address will not be published. Step 2. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. 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. When you're applying the bead, use a constant, steady speed to avoid an uneven finish. 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]. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. 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. Drain and pat dry. Apply the Paste. Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. Mix dishwasher detergent and water into the bathtub or bucket. 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. The key to keeping it that way is through daily shower maintenance. Acrylic bathtubs are typically available in a wider variety of colors than fiberglass bathtubs, which are typically only available in white. It can help to sanitize the surface but should never be used in its concentrated form because it can damage the plastic surface. When you clean your bathtub, you should start by emptying your bathtub. 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.