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. Steps for cleaning plastic tub surrounded with dish soap: Step 1. 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub 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. Rub this paste into the stains and give it about half an hour to take effect. Ammonia cleansers are able to thoroughly clean any and all bathtubs and showers without causing any damage to the fiberglass. How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub, How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 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. However, it's important to check the label for the description "nonabrasive" and "suitable for acrylic, plastic, polystyrene, ABS, etc." Although it can be tempting to use an abrasive scrubber, Delta Faucet explains that they can cause lasting damage to the plastic. Begin by mixing two tablespoons of dish detergent into one gallon of warm water in a spray bottle, stirring thoroughly until fully combined. It can help to sanitize the surface but should never be used in its concentrated form because it can damage the plastic surface. Make a thick paste of baking soda similar to peanut butter or toothpaste consistency. Using either a terry cloth towel or microfiber cloth, scrub the surface of the tub surround until all dirt and grime have been removed. Do you want to get rid of all that unattractive residue? By emptying the tub first, you will be able to access all the corners of your bathtub and clean it thoroughly. Rinse off any remaining residue with fresh water. Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. Bathroomer: How to Clean Plastic Bathtubs and Keep Them White as New, Family Handyman: How to Clean Bathtub Stains. 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. Baking soda. A mixture of water and vinegar. I use vinegar on mine, but living alone and being neat and tidy helps, in a household with lots of people, not as easy. If you want the best result, you can mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda. To choose the best bathtub cleaner and tools for a plastic tub surround, understand that plastic, or acrylic, is softer and more easily scratched than porcelain-enamel and fiberglass. 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. Rinse multiple times and wipe completely to prevent streaks. Simply cleaning it will remove any stains caused by harsh water. Spray the lemon water on the tub and leave it there until evening, or for a whole night. 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. The Process of Cleaning Your Shower The Grime on the Tray. By cleaning regularly, you can control the growth of microbes and remove bad odors. Luckily, there are several methods to restore shine to plastic bathroom units at home. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. 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. 2 Step 2. They will come to your home and give it a quick thorough cleaning! Take a nylon sponge that wont scratch surfaces and dip it in the soapy water. Check the bathtub for any mineral deposits or soap scum that may still be there. 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. After it has dried, use an old toothbrush and some warm water to gently scrub this mixture (and the limescale) away. 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. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. You might think that cleaning your bathtub is something you can do on your own, but youre wrong. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. More things. Baking soda is another great go-to cleaner for plastic tub surrounds. Mix an ounce in a gallon of water and scrub with a sponge or plastic scrubbing pad. Let it sit on the surface for 10 minutes. 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. Cleaning liquid, or bathroom cleaner, is a very common cleaning agent. Mix dishwasher detergent and water into the bathtub or bucket. Use a bucket or a pitcher to rinse your tub. Chlorine isnt just used to disinfect water. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff bristle brushes to clean fiberglass surrounds. Their caustic nature could damage the surface or, even worse, cause etching if contact with the skin occurs. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Step 4 Sprinkle baking soda onto the tub's surfaces and use the wet sponge to scrub it in gently. Then, rinse it all with water. Moisten the eraser sponge with hot water and scrub. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. Step 1. By doing this, you can create a paste that you can use to scrub your bathtub. 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. Your email address will not be published. Create a paste by adding 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to a bowl. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Solvents: Its really important to remember not to use solvents like mineral spirits, acetone and turpentine on any type of plastic surface. 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/ Discard the towels in a trash bag. Turn on the shower and direct the flow of water to the walls. If the dirt is particularly stubborn and difficult to remove, it may be wise to use something more abrasive like a terry cloth towel. Rinse with clear water. Manage Settings These leave scratches that attract dirt and make the surround difficult to clean. These cleaners are gentle on surfaces so as not to damage them in the process. 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. Microfiber cloths come in a variety of sizes and can be washed and reused multiple times. Don't pry the caulk with the scraper because you could break off the razor blade. Cleaning liquid 9. 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. The question arises of how you can safely scrub away dirt and soap scum without damaging the material. Terry cloth towels also have some absorbency but need to be replaced more frequently than microfiber cloths do, as they deteriorate quickly with washing. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. Rinse away all traces of bleach residue using clean water after each application until all stains are gone. On the other hand, as time passes, the plastic, which is in reality a composite made of reinforced plastic and fiberglass, might turn yellow. 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. For effective cleaning of a plastic tub surround, microfiber cloths should be used. 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. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. The key to keeping it that way is through daily shower maintenance. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. 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. Remember, Its important to know the right way of using chemicals. The fourth step is to wipe away. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. The first step in restoring plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures has to be a deep clean. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, melamine sponges, and commercial abrasive cleaning products, along with solvents. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. Step 1. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. 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. 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. 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.. 5 Step 5. 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. Dont worry if your plastic tub surround looks old because the right cleaning solutions will make it look brand new. [18] Gloves are optional if you're cleaning with vinegar or dish soap. 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 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. If you want to use a commercial product, consider all-purpose cleaners or bathroom-specific cleaners. The whiting and wax fill scratches and whiten the surround. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. How to clean plastic bathtub 1. By emptying your bathtub first, youll be able to see the stains clearly, so you will know what areas to scrub harder. Hydrogen peroxide whitens your tub, and it will also bleach fabric. Cleaning a plastic bathtub is a different process than cleaning a porcelain or fiberglass tub. Be sure to thoroughly combine the dish soap and the water. 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. Allow it to sit for several minutes to allow it to absorb any dirt or grime present on its surface. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. Lemon water 6. Chlorine 3. Baking soda works wonders when it comes to lifting hard dirt and other stains from acrylic plastic. Step 1. Another tip of how to clean plastic bathtub is using your home ingredients. They can be directly applied to the surfaces of tubs and shower enclosures composed primarily of plastics such as acrylics and polymers. The bubbles produced by hydrogen peroxide also make it more efficient at removing dirty stains than using just water would. So what products can and should be used on acrylic plastic? You never know what bacteria could breed in the damp and humid surfaces in these areas. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. For an even more refreshing smell, you can swap out the vinegar for some lovely lemon juice. 5 Step 5. 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. More information How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround More like this Diy Cleaning Products Cleaning Household Plastic tub surrounds usually wipe clean easily because they feature a smooth surface with no grout lines to collect dirt. Allow the vinegar to sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing it away with a microfiber cloth or soft sponge. 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. Required fields are marked *. 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. Then, use a scouring brush to scrub off the moldy spots. Step 1 Fill a spray bottle with 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, which is found in drugstores or convenience stores for a minimal price. The hand sanitizer will dissolve the mildew stains, and get rid of them for good. 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. This will almost certainly cause scratches and other damage to your tub. 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. 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. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Step 2. Dirt comes to all of your furniture including the bathtub. Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough surface. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. If required, carry out the procedure once more until the stain is removed. Step 8. Step 4. After spraying or wiping the bleach over the surfaces, you should follow up with a water rinse. Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. To use chlorine to clean a bathtub, you can simply sprinkle chlorine to a bathtub that has stains. Chlorine could be an effective solution for getting rid of those stains from the bathtub. Take a nylon sponge that won't scratch surfaces and dip it in the soapy water. Vinegar that has been distilled. Any soft, nonabrasive cleaning tool, such as a microfiber or terry cloth towel, and a sponge, rag, scrubber or brush labeled "nonabrasive" can be used to clean a plastic tub surround without risk of scratching it. The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. Video of the Day Step 2 Fill a spray bottle with a bathroom cleaner approved to treat rust stains. 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. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. The bleach should be diluted in water with roughly the same amount of each component. You can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. 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. Dish soap is another effective cleaning solution for your plastic bathtub. Step 4. Step 1 - Heat vinegar. Gently spray the tub and shower walls so that all surfaces are covered with the bathroom cleaner. 4 Step 4. Dish soap, preferably Dawn or your preferred brand, Cleaner for the Bathroom and the Kitchen by CLR. Allow this to sit for ten minutes, or for the amount of time that is specified on the label of the box. Method 1 Removing Fresh Paint Using Soap and Water Download Article 1 Run some hot water over the paint spot. 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. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. Rub the whiting into any scratched areas on the surround, then wipe off the excess. Then use a damp rag to scrub away the baking soda and rinse the tub. 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. Surrounds only require waxing twice a year to look good. 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. Bathtubs are covered in dirt and germs, which can cause all sorts of nasty problems. 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. Vinegar, lemon juice, all-purpose cleaner, and baking soda paste can be used for ultimate cleanliness. Spray the tub surround with the cleaner. Drain the water and use a rag to get rid of any residue. Always remember to wear protective gear when using harsh chemicals! Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. This makes them feel rather uninviting and can give your entire bathroom an old, worn-out vibe. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. Vinegar will not damage a plastic tub surround when used for cleaning purposes. Mild dish soap can also be used to clean the plastic tub surround as it is gentle yet effective for removing dirt and grime. Method 1 Using Natural Products 1 Fill the tub with hot water and vinegar. Make a paste of equal parts cleanser powder and water. Your email address will not be published. More things Wipe gently and slowly and dont apply pressure or use any sharp and hard objects and materials to rub the tub. 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. Make use of a bristle brush to collect debris in the crevices and along the borders of the bathtub. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. 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. Dish soap 8. Flush the area with water after youre done. Step 3. Spray purified or ordinary tap water onto the cleaning powder. They have the potential to leave behind residues that could harm the material. Rinse the soiled sponge in the water many times throughout the cleaning process to avoid spreading dirt back onto the bathtub. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. 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. Spray the tub surround with the. Give your plastic tub enclosures a sparkling clean finish with vinegar. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. 3 Right Methods: How to Clean Hands After Touching Raw Chicken, 10 Smart Ideas: How to Dispose of Concrete. This will help loosen the dirt and grime before you clean the tub. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. Harsh chemical cleaners: Harsh chemical cleaners like oven cleaner or drain cleaner are also not suitable for plastic material. However, Acrylic is a preferred choice for bathtub surrounds, and for a solid reason. You can use a dishwashing or liquid laundry detergent. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. Bathtubs are great to enjoy a relaxing bath whenever you feel tired. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. 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. Step 1. Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. Step 3. Scouring Pads: Scouring pads, too, could cause scratching due to their rough texture so these should not be used either. Rinse and dry. These scuff marks are difficult to repair and could end up making your bathroom look even dirtier. Dishwashing detergent. Rust stain-approved cleaners often stain fabrics. Remove any signs of mildew from silicone caulking surrounding the tub enclosure by rubbing it with a cloth dipped into a solution of 3-parts vinegar to 1-part water. Your email address will not be published. After that, flush the bathtub with plenty of fresh running water. 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. Wet a clean cloth with the soapy solution and use it to wash your newly whitened tub surround. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. Cleaning a plastic tub surround does not have to be hard or time-consuming if done properly. Apply the Paste. After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. Otherwise, you could get sick and potentially make other members of your family sick as well. 6. They will be able to bring your bathtub back to its previous condition, without causing any damage. Fill up your bathtub with two inches of hot water, and add one cup of hand sanitizer.