CLR will certainly help. Your email address will not be published. Proper maintenance ensures that your plastic tub will stay in perfect condition. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, melamine sponges, and commercial abrasive cleaning products, along with solvents. 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. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. So what products can and should be used on acrylic plastic? Scouring Powders: Abrasive cleaners such as scouring powders should not be used on any kind of plastic surface as they can cause scratches or damage to the material. Use this in the same way as you would use dish detergent. Method 1 Using Natural Products 1 Fill the tub with hot water and vinegar. Make sure all of the surfaces that you want to clean are wet. More things After that, spray the solution over the glass door of your shower and allow it to rest for a few minutes. 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. Acrylic or plastic bathtubs and tub surrounds call for nonabrasive cleaning products only. 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. They are highly absorbent and can easily collect dirt, dust, and grime without leaving behind streaking or residue. You can use a dishwashing or liquid laundry detergent. Therefore it should always be avoided when cleaning any type of plastic tub surround surface. Be sure to rinse the rag often to get rid of soap residue. However, they tend to accumulate stains over time. 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. After spraying or wiping the bleach over the surfaces, you should follow up with a water rinse. Scrub clean with a rag. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. Allow the vinegar to sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing it away with a microfiber cloth or soft sponge. All-purpose household or bathroom cleaner. They can do a wide range of things: removing grease and grime, removing rust, and so on. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. See a detailed demo at http://formula101.tvCleaning the tub is one of the most daunting tasks. After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. 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. https://goo.gl/2Trdac Show more Shop the DIY Power Couple store DIY. Mix the cleaner with water and spray it all over the tub. 3 Step 3. 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. Start by spraying your cleaner directly onto the affected area of the plastic tub surround. To use chlorine to clean a bathtub, you can simply sprinkle chlorine to a bathtub that has stains. Its acidic substances can help to remove stubborn dirt, soap scum, and other debris from the surface. 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. 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.. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. Baking soda and vinegar 5. Thorough weekly cleanings, occasional stain removal and semi-annual waxing help whiten the plastic and bring back the luster of the tub surround. Moisten the brush with fresh water as needed. Once done, wash away any remaining substance with clean water. On the other hand, as time passes, the plastic, which is in reality a composite made of reinforced plastic and fiberglass, might turn yellow. Repeat the wiping process with a fresh microfiber towel. Step 3 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. 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. 2 Rinse the tub with water. Dish soap 8. 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. How do you whiten plastic shower walls? 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. When cleaning with chlorine, always wear protective gear like masks, hats, gloves, and glasses. 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. Drain the water and use a rag to get rid of any residue. 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. Lime Away TSP Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. 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. Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. Turn on the shower and direct the flow of water to the walls. 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. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. 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.Before you rinse the area, clean it with a dry microfiber towel using a gentle scrubbing motion. For effective cleaning of a plastic tub surround, microfiber cloths should be used. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. Cleaning liquid 9. Once you're satisfied your tub is as clean as possible, you can work on removing mineral buildup, which masks shine. Apply the Paste. 1. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. Dont worry if your plastic tub surround looks old because the right cleaning solutions will make it look brand new. Oven cleaner: let sit for one hour. This is possible because the oxidizing effect of chlorine could get rid of most of any stains on your plastic bathtub. Then, use a scouring brush to scrub off the moldy spots. Drain and pat dry. Step 1. Let it stand for 10 minutes. There are so many brands available in the market. Step 1 - Remove Excess Dirt From Fiberglass. These scuff marks are difficult to repair and could end up making your bathroom look even dirtier. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround | BEFORE & AFTER FIBERGLASS REFINISHING @DIYPowerCouple Subscribe for more DIY! If your acrylic tub is heavily stained or dirty, consider filling the tub with hot water and vinegar. Submerge a cleaning tool, such as a soft-bristled brush, into the bleach solution. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. You might think that cleaning your bathtub is something you can do on your own, but youre wrong. Make a paste with water and scrub the stall with a sponge or plastic applicator. The bleach should be diluted in water with roughly the same amount of each component. Definitely dont use commercial abrasive cleaning products or solvents either. You can also use shampoo or body soap. 2 Step 2. Spray the tub surround with the cleaner. How Long Does Weed Stay Good In A Plastic Bag? 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. 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. The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. Let it sit on the surface for 10 minutes. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub, how to get rid of urine smell in bathroom. Your email address will not be published. Step 4. Bathtubs are covered in dirt and germs, which can cause all sorts of nasty problems. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. 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. 6. 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 a more intense cleaner like a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on any areas where you begin to see buildup. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. How To Clean Plastic Shower Surround? - Nationwide Plastics Bathroomer: How to Clean Plastic Bathtubs and Keep Them White as New, Family Handyman: How to Clean Bathtub Stains. However, the plastic, which is actually a reinforced plastic fiberglass composite, can develop yellowing as it ages. Alcohol 2. Wet & Forget Shower is a weekly shower cleanser that does not require scrubbing and is kind to surfaces made of acrylic and fiberglass. Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. Lemon water 6. 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. How To Make Plastic Pots Look Like Ceramic? How To Remove A Tub Surround With Adhesive (Step-by-Step Guide) Let the baking soda paste sit for five minutes before using a soft sponge or scrubbing brush to lightly rub away any residual dirt or grime. Apply a light coat of white auto cream wax to the entire surround with a cotton cloth. Harsh chemical cleaners: Harsh chemical cleaners like oven cleaner or drain cleaner are also not suitable for plastic material. Rinse the soiled sponge in the water many times throughout the cleaning process to avoid spreading dirt back onto the bathtub. Take a nylon sponge that won't scratch surfaces and dip it in the soapy water. 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. 6. Step 3. Required fields are marked *. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Create a paste for cleaning the bathtub by mixing one part baking soda with two parts hydrogen peroxide (or cream of tartar). 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 2. 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. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. By staying on top of your cleaning regimen, you can prolong the time in between deep cleans too. 3 Step 3. Terry cloth towels also have some absorbency but need to be replaced more frequently than microfiber cloths do, as they deteriorate quickly with washing. Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. Then, rinse clean with hot water. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. Mix dishwasher detergent and water into the bathtub or bucket. Required fields are marked *. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. Step 1 - Heat vinegar. How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround - Pinterest Chlorine destroys stains by further dissolving them into smaller particles that will then be easier to flush or scrub off. If you're dealing with a dirty tub, you've come to the right place. Rinse and dry. If you want the best result, you can mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda. Microfiber cloths come in a variety of sizes and can be washed and reused multiple times. Do you have a bathtub that is discolored and stained? Spray the soapy mixture onto the plastic tub surround and let it sit for at least five minutes before scrubbing. 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. 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. If your bathtub is made of plastic, you should steer clear of cleaning solutions that include acids or alkalis.The use of strong chemicals such as bleach, acetone, paint thinner, and cleaners packaged in aerosol cans is not recommended when cleaning acrylic plastic tubs.If bleach is not diluted, it has the potential to deteriorate plastic bathtubs, despite the fact that it is an extremely efficient disinfectant. Step 2. Bleach is powerful enough to remove tough stains from plastic tub surrounds that cannot be removed with regular dish soap alone. 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. Vinegar may take time to cut through grease, so it can be left for several minutes before being wiped away. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. 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. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. After rubbing the paste into the stain and allowing it to sit for up to an hour, you should wipe it off and then rinse it. 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. How To Transfer Plant From Plastic To Pot? Step 3. Repeat as many times as required to completely remove the stain. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. 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. Then add 1 tablespoon of dish soap followed by three parts hot water. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. How To Clean Plastic Tub Surrounds? - Nationwide Plastics Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. Spray the area, then wipe it off with a sponge, reserving the remaining solution to use on mirrors, windows, and other surfaces. Create a bleach solution by mixing two tablespoons of bleach into two cups of water in a bowl or bucket. 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. Required fields are marked *. They have more texture which allows them to break up dirt easier. 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. How Do I Get My Tub Surround White Again - Knowledge Matrix Itll foam, so scrub it all over using a sponge or brush. Dry the surround after every use to prevent discoloration and yellowing. Gloves are optional if you're cleaning with vinegar or dish soap. 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. After an hour go back inside and use a toilet brush to give the shower a gentle scrub and then rinse. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. The hand sanitizer will dissolve the mildew stains, and get rid of them for good. How to Caulk a Tub Surround (DIY) - Family Handyman Scrub if necessary and then rinse with plain water. Apply this paste onto the stained area of the tub and leave it for about 10 minutes. Limescale and other mineral deposits can grip onto your plastic tub or shower and cause it to look dingy and dull. How to Clean Your Surround Tub and Make it Shine! The key to keeping it that way is through daily shower maintenance. How To Clean A Plastic Tub? - Nationwide Plastics 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. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. Make a thick paste of baking soda similar to peanut butter or toothpaste consistency. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. 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. Scrub until the stains disappear. 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. If you have an acrylic tub, you can use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath without worry, but you should avoid using bleach. 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. Combine baking soda and water to create a paste similar in consistency to toothpaste. This is a simple, non-toxic way to clean and preserve your acrylic tubs and shower.You can do it by yourself, but we are happy to help!Call anytime for an estimate: 1-866-252-3241---With same day service and 25 years of experience, you can have confidence the job will be done correctly.If you need plumbing, water damage restoration, HVAC repair, sewer \u0026 drain cleaning, or mold removal \u0026 remediationCall the Twin Home Experts.WE GUARANTEE OUR WORK!Let's Connect!Website: https://www.twinplumbing.com/Blog: https://www.twinplumbing.com/blog/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twinhomeexperts/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetwinhomeexperts/ Rub the whiting into any scratched areas on the surround, then wipe off the excess. Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough surface. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Before you attempt to actually clean your fiberglass tub surround, rinse the material with clean water. Additionally, acrylic is warmer to the touch than fiberglass, and the surfaces of bathtubs made of acrylic are smoother than those made of fiberglass. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. Mix an ounce in a gallon of water and scrub with a sponge or plastic scrubbing pad. Lemon remains to be an excellent natural cleaner. Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge. Doing so will loosen soaps and other products, facilitating the cleaning process. Once done scrubbing, use clean water to wash away any residual soap residue. Steer clear of steel wool, scouring pads, and melamine sponges can scratch the surface. How to Restore Shine to Plastic Bathtubs and Shower Enclosures That said, you'll want to try using baby shampoo and warm water first, as this is usually the most effective cleaning method: Begin by wetting the bathtub and pouring a few drops of shampoo on a damp rag. Simply pour some white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it over the greasy tub surface. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Step 3. How to clean an old vinyl tub and surround | Hometalk Use a caulk tool or a plastic spoon to work the sealant into the joint. Professional cleaners can help you get rid of the dirt in your bathtub, and keep it looking great. Follow the directions on the back of the tube for cure time. Pick up some painter's tape and use it to mask off the seam to help make cleaning up easier. The coating provides protection against discoloration from ultraviolet rays. Don't assume enamel and fiberglass tub cleaners and polishes are suitable for plastic as well. Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. How to whiten a yellowed plastic tub surround | eHow UK 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. Step 3. 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. [18] Then, take an old toothbrush (or whatever your preferred brush is), and scrub the sides of your bathtub. Finally, flush it with water to get rid of any residue left by the acid in the lemon. 3 Ways to Clean an Acrylic Tub - wikiHow Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. 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. How to Remove Rust Stains on a Plastic Tub Surround | Hunker The active ingredient in hand sanitizer is alcohol, which easily removes stains on the plastic. Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Dishwashing detergent. Apply an auto whiting polish to the surround with a clean cloth. 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. Your email address will not be published. Let the vinegar stay on the tub for about 30 minutes. 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. They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. For an even more refreshing smell, you can swap out the vinegar for some lovely lemon juice. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. Rinse away all traces of bleach residue using clean water after each application until all stains are gone. Then use a damp rag to scrub away the baking soda and rinse the tub. Spray the tub surround with the. Using a scrubbing brush, scrub the tub until its cleaned. 5. 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. Let us share all the details on how to keep your plastic tub looking as good as new. Dirt comes to all of your furniture including the bathtub. Melamine Sponges: As for melamine sponges, while their softness prevents them from causing deep scratches like steel wool does. Their caustic nature could damage the surface or, even worse, cause etching if contact with the skin occurs. Apply this paste to the affected areas of your tub or shower enclosure and then leave it for around an hour to really work at the limescale. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Spray . Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Dish soap is another effective cleaning solution for your plastic bathtub. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day. Drain and pat dry. Here's how to clean a plastic bathtub using a few tried-and-true methods and ingredients. A mixture of water and vinegar. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. Fill up your bathtub with two inches of hot water, and add one cup of hand sanitizer. 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. For tough stains, scrub the area with cream cleanser solutions to dissolve the stains. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. In particular, it could be used to remove mildew from plastic bathtubs. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Alternatively, for extra-stubborn stains, you can use a combination of warm water and vinegar to clean your tub. Your email address will not be published. 4 Step 4. Step 2. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. How to Clean Bathtub Stains (DIY) | Family Handyman