Step 1 - Heat vinegar. Dissolved white vinegar in water. Manage Settings Step 1 Fill a spray bottle with 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, which is found in drugstores or convenience stores for a minimal price. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. 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. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. 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. 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. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. Chlorine isnt just used to disinfect water. 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. Imfoto/Shutterstock. Create a paste by adding 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to a bowl. Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, melamine sponges, and commercial abrasive cleaning products, along with solvents. Discard the towels in a trash bag. Apply this paste onto the stained area of the tub and leave it for about 10 minutes. How to Clean Plastic Bathtub: 9 Simple Method - World Sustainable 4 Step 4. Plastic bathtubs can be stained and dirty easily because theyre in contact with water and water alone. With the addition of moisture, the powder will take on a thick, foamy consistency. Combine baking soda and water to create a paste similar in consistency to toothpaste. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. 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. 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. Plastic bathtubs are durable and long-lasting. After spraying or wiping the bleach over the surfaces, you should follow up with a water rinse. How to Clean Your Bathtub - The Home Depot After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. Your email address will not be published. Melamine Sponges: As for melamine sponges, while their softness prevents them from causing deep scratches like steel wool does. However, Acrylic is a preferred choice for bathtub surrounds, and for a solid reason. [18] Alternative cleaning products suitable for use on a plastic tub surround include dish soap, white vinegar and household bleach. The active ingredient in hand sanitizer is alcohol, which easily removes stains on the plastic. They can be directly applied to the surfaces of tubs and shower enclosures composed primarily of plastics such as acrylics and polymers. A mixture of water and vinegar. 2 Rinse the tub with water. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. 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. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Start by spraying your cleaner directly onto the affected area of the plastic tub surround. To clean your tub, start by flushing it out with hot water. Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. Wet & Forget Shower is a weekly shower cleanser that does not require scrubbing and is kind to surfaces made of acrylic and fiberglass. Luckily, this too is a problem that can be tackled with simple white vinegar. Step 5. Oven cleaner: let sit for one hour. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. 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. Dish soap is another effective cleaning solution for your plastic bathtub. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. 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. 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. Spray purified or ordinary tap water onto the cleaning powder. Allow this to sit for ten minutes, or for the amount of time that is specified on the label of the box. Baking soda and vinegar 5. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The most recent accessory to be added to your collection of tools for cleaning glass is Mr. It can be really frustrating to attempt to clean the bathtub yourself. 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. Acetone: wipe the acetone on the plastic with a soft cloth to remove stains caused by dye, paint or pigments. 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.. 1. The key is to use mild cleaning solutions like vinegar, baking soda dish soap, bleach, mixer degreaser, and all-purpose cleaners for the best results. 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. Method 1 Removing Fresh Paint Using Soap and Water Download Article 1 Run some hot water over the paint spot. Although it can be tempting to use an abrasive scrubber, Delta Faucet explains that they can cause lasting damage to the plastic. Utilizing Peroxide to Restore the Original Color of Yellowed Plastic A container should be filled with straight peroxide. Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge. Dont worry! How To Clean Acrylic Tubs And Shower Walls - YouTube For effective cleaning of a plastic tub surround, microfiber cloths should be used. Rinse multiple times and wipe completely to prevent streaks. Step 3. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Required fields are marked *. Baking soda has strong de-greasing properties that can be used to clean oil or grease stains. Be sure to thoroughly combine the dish soap and the water. Scrub the surround with the baking soda and brush. Begin by wetting the bathtub and pouring a few drops of shampoo on a damp rag. Make a paste of equal parts cleanser powder and water. It is your source for tips, tricks, cleaning tools, and anything related to cleaning that will help you live a cleaner lifestyle. Cleaning a plastic tub surround is never easy because one wrong move and your shiny new bathtub could look worse with scratches. See a detailed demo at http://formula101.tvCleaning the tub is one of the most daunting tasks. Wet a clean cloth with the soapy solution and use it to wash your newly whitened tub surround. How to Caulk a Tub Surround (DIY) - Family Handyman These scuff marks are difficult to repair and could end up making your bathroom look even dirtier. Baking soda. 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. Step 8. Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. How To Clean A Plastic Tub? - Nationwide Plastics Acrylic that has been treated with Clean is algae-free and safe to use. You can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. Spray all of your tub's surfaces, including cracks, crevices and hardware. Alternatively, for extra-stubborn stains, you can use a combination of warm water and vinegar to clean your tub. How to clean plastic bathtub 1. 3 Remedies for Yellowing Bathtubs in a Mobile Home Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. More things Step 1. They are highly absorbent and can easily collect dirt, dust, and grime without leaving behind streaking or residue. All-purpose household or bathroom cleaner. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Doing so will loosen soaps and other products, facilitating the cleaning process. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough 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. 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. Baking soda and vinegar are both common household ingredients. 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. 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. They have the potential to leave behind residues that could harm the material. How To Clean Plastic Tub Surround: 6 DIY Methods [Effective] Rub the whiting into any scratched areas on the surround, then wipe off the excess. Cleaning liquid, or bathroom cleaner, is a very common cleaning agent. Baking soda works wonders when it comes to lifting hard dirt and other stains from acrylic plastic. Acrylic or plastic bathtubs and tub surrounds call for nonabrasive cleaning products only. Your email address will not be published. Spray a large amount of a bathroom cleaner that contains bleach and is advertised as being effective against soap scum on the fiberglass or tile that is found in the shower enclosure. When cleaning a plastic or ABS tub enclosure there are certain products that should be avoided. Scouring Pads: Scouring pads, too, could cause scratching due to their rough texture so these should not be used either. However, it's important to check the label for the description "nonabrasive" and "suitable for acrylic, plastic, polystyrene, ABS, etc." Cleaning your plastic bathtub and other surfaces in and around your bathroom is critical to your health. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Wipe gently and slowly and dont apply pressure or use any sharp and hard objects and materials to rub the tub. After it has dried, use an old toothbrush and some warm water to gently scrub this mixture (and the limescale) away. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Yellowed plastic can be whitened by using cream peroxide or tartar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. After an hour go back inside and use a toilet brush to give the shower a gentle scrub and then rinse. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. 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. This is possible because the oxidizing effect of chlorine could get rid of most of any stains on your plastic bathtub. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to remove wine stains from ceramic bathtubs. Instead of doing that, call out a professional cleaning service to handle it for you! 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. Step 2. How to Restore Shine to Plastic Bathtubs and Shower Enclosures To use chlorine to clean a bathtub, you can simply sprinkle chlorine to a bathtub that has stains. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. Take a nylon sponge that wont scratch surfaces and dip it in the soapy water. You never know what bacteria could breed in the damp and humid surfaces in these areas. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. 3 Ways to Clean Tough Stains from a Bathtub - wikiHow Cut through your drywall along the edges with a Sawzall. Plastic is a popular material for bathtubs and shower enclosures as it's known for being durable, making it ideal for daily use. Wet a soft nylon brush with warm water. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. Steer clear of steel wool, scouring pads, and melamine sponges can scratch the surface. Steps for cleaning plastic tub surrounded with dish soap: Step 1. Definitely dont use commercial abrasive cleaning products or solvents either. 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. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub, How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs. Then add 1 tablespoon of dish soap followed by three parts hot water. If you want to use a commercial product, consider all-purpose cleaners or bathroom-specific cleaners. 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. Terry cloth towels also have some absorbency but need to be replaced more frequently than microfiber cloths do, as they deteriorate quickly with washing. Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. They can do a wide range of things: removing grease and grime, removing rust, and so on. 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.. Using either a terry cloth towel or microfiber cloth, scrub the surface of the tub surround until all dirt and grime have been removed. Scrub clean with a rag. Step 4. Keeping your bathtub or shower looking clean and shiny should mean you don't need to worry about restoring it nearly as often. How To Clean Plastic Shower Walls? - Nationwide Plastics How To Clean Plastic Tub Surrounds? - Nationwide Plastics 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. Cleaning a plastic bathtub is a different process than cleaning a porcelain or fiberglass tub. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. Therefore it should always be avoided when cleaning any type of plastic tub surround surface. Your email address will not be published. Mild dish soap can also be used to clean the plastic tub surround as it is gentle yet effective for removing dirt and grime. Use a caulk tool or a plastic spoon to work the sealant into the joint. On the other hand, as time passes, the plastic, which is in reality a composite made of reinforced plastic and fiberglass, might turn yellow. Simply fill the tub with equal parts water and vinegar and allow this solution to sit for at least 15 minutes. Chlorine is very harmful if its not handled properly. Then, scrub the stain and mold away. Try the cleaning method that is recommended by Home Depot for stubborn stains on fiberglass before you give up on attempting to scrub away the stains: Put on a layer of a paste made from baking soda and water, then cover it with a cloth that has been soaked in vinegar. You can also wet a clean sponge or washcloth and use it to rub in the cleaner until it thickens. 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. If the dirt is particularly stubborn and difficult to remove, it may be wise to use something more abrasive like a terry cloth towel. Then, flush with water to clean it all up. Bathtubs are covered in dirt and germs, which can cause all sorts of nasty problems. Once done, wash away any remaining substance with clean water. Some of the best bathtub cleaners without scrubbing are effective, but others will need to be used with some scrubbing action, especially if the surround is visibly dirty or stained. Cleaning liquid 9. Check the bathtub for any mineral deposits or soap scum that may still be there. Let the vinegar stay on the tub for about 30 minutes. Rinse off any remaining residue with fresh water. By emptying the tub first, you will be able to access all the corners of your bathtub and clean it thoroughly. Lemon water 6. Flush the area with water after youre done. Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. By emptying your bathtub first, youll be able to see the stains clearly, so you will know what areas to scrub harder. Step 2. Scrub until the stains disappear. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. 2 Step 2. Proper maintenance ensures that your plastic tub will stay in perfect condition. How to Whiten Plastic or Fiberglass Tubs & Showers | Hunker Submerge a cleaning tool, such as a soft-bristled brush, into the bleach solution. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. Cleaning a plastic tub surround does not have to be hard or time-consuming if done properly. Let us share all the details on how to keep your plastic tub looking as good as new. 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. They have more texture which allows them to break up dirt easier. When cleaning a plastic bathtub surround, vinegar( lemon juice) is an effective option that may be used. 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. Once youve scrubbed the desired area thoroughly, rinse away any remaining residue with cold water. How to Clean Your Surround Tub and Make it Shine! Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts baking soda to make a bathtub cleaning paste (or cream of tartar). Mix the cleaner with water and spray it all over the tub. Thorough weekly cleanings, occasional stain removal and semi-annual waxing help whiten the plastic and bring back the luster of the tub surround. How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround | BEFORE & AFTER FIBERGLASS REFINISHING @DIYPowerCouple Subscribe for more DIY! Once done scrubbing, use clean water to wash away any residual soap residue. 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. Here's how to clean a plastic bathtub using a few tried-and-true methods and ingredients. Allow it to set for up to one hour. Be sure to rinse the rag often to get rid of soap residue. 3 Ways to Clean an Acrylic Tub - wikiHow 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. You can also use a more intense cleaner like a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on any areas where you begin to see buildup. Use a cloth to scrub the tub and finish removing the stains. 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. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. If required, carry out the procedure once more until the stain is removed. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. 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. Bathtubs are great to enjoy a relaxing bath whenever you feel tired. Simply pour some white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it over the greasy tub surface. Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. There are so many brands available in the market. Once ready, soak a microfiber cloth within this solution before scrubbing the plastic tub surrounding it gently. Repeat this procedure until the tub is clean. How to Clean a Fiberglass Tub Surround | DoItYourself.com Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. How Do I Get My Tub Surround White Again - Knowledge Matrix After spraying the vinegar at full power on the stains and allowing it to sit for a few minutes, scrub the area to remove the vinegar. 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. Additionally, acrylic is warmer to the touch than fiberglass, and the surfaces of bathtubs made of acrylic are smoother than those made of fiberglass. Simply cleaning it will remove any stains caused by harsh water. Baking soda is another great go-to cleaner for plastic tub surrounds. Bathroomer: How to Clean Plastic Bathtubs and Keep Them White as New, Family Handyman: How to Clean Bathtub Stains. 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. What you need to do before cleaning plastic bathtub, how to get rid of urine smell in bathroom. By cleaning regularly, you can control the growth of microbes and remove bad odors. Solvents: Its really important to remember not to use solvents like mineral spirits, acetone and turpentine on any type of plastic surface. 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. How To Clean A Plastic Bathtub Surround? - Nationwide Plastics 4 Step 4. Follow the directions on the back of the tube for cure time. Microfiber cloths come in a variety of sizes and can be washed and reused multiple times. Required fields are marked *. Always remember to wear protective gear when using harsh chemicals! To apply it, mix the dish soap with water and spray it on your bathtub. How To Clean Textured Fiberglass or Plastic Shower Floor - YouTube How to whiten a yellowed plastic tub surround | eHow UK 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. Rust stain-approved cleaners often stain fabrics. Chlorine could be an effective solution for getting rid of those stains from the bathtub. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. 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. By staying on top of your cleaning regimen, you can prolong the time in between deep cleans too. The last thing you want to do is cause more damage to the tub by trying to clean it yourself. For tough stains, scrub the area with cream cleanser solutions to dissolve the stains. Before attempting this process, the plastic should be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Gently spray the tub and shower walls so that all surfaces are covered with the bathroom cleaner. Vinegar, lemon juice, all-purpose cleaner, and baking soda paste can be used for ultimate cleanliness.