Yellowed plastic can be whitened by using cream peroxide or tartar. This will help loosen the dirt and grime before you clean the tub. Lemon water 6. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. When you clean your bathtub, you should start by emptying your bathtub. Let the vinegar stay on the tub for about 30 minutes. It works to gently exfoliate away dirt and grime while being safe for use on most surfaces. You can also use shampoo or body soap. Alternatively, use a nonabrasive tub and shower cleaner. Don't assume enamel and fiberglass tub cleaners and polishes are suitable for plastic as well. Less than $20 Step 1: Remove the old caulk and clean the joint Photo 1: Loosen the old caulk Push a razor scraper in all the way under both edges of the old caulk bead to release its grip. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Dissolved white vinegar in water. What Part Of The Mantle Bends Like Plastic? Vinegar may take time to cut through grease, so it can be left for several minutes before being wiped away. 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. Therefore it should always be avoided when cleaning any type of plastic tub surround surface. Required fields are marked *. They will come to your home and give it a quick thorough cleaning! Avoid steel wool, scouring pads, melamine sponges, and commercial abrasive cleaning products, along with solvents. The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. Manage Settings Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. More information How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround More like this Diy Cleaning Products Cleaning Household Apply a light coat of white auto cream wax to the entire surround with a cotton cloth. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. Hand sanitizer 7. Your email address will not be published. Surrounds only require waxing twice a year to look good. After waiting an hour, use a towel or sponge to massage the area. 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. Chlorine destroys stains by further dissolving them into smaller particles that will then be easier to flush or scrub off. 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. Rust stain-approved cleaners often stain fabrics. Once youve scrubbed the desired area thoroughly, rinse away any remaining residue with cold water. To erase stains on the plastic that were created by dye, paint, or pigments, wipe these solvents over the surface with a soft cloth. Check the bathtub for any mineral deposits or soap scum that may still be there. When you're applying the bead, use a constant, steady speed to avoid an uneven finish. They are gentle on the surface of the plastic tub, so no damage will be caused by using them. 3 Ways to Clean Tough Stains from a Bathtub - wikiHow Rinse with clear water. How to Clean Your Surround Tub and Make it Shine! - YouTube Mix dishwasher detergent and water into the bathtub or bucket. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. Required fields are marked *. Make a paste of equal parts cleanser powder and water. Apply an auto whiting polish to the surround with a clean cloth. Step 1. Use a cloth to scrub the tub and finish removing the stains. The Process of Cleaning Your Shower The Grime on the Tray. How To Clean A Plastic Shower Stall? - Nationwide Plastics A mixture of water and vinegar. Simply combine an answer consisting of half water and half white vinegar in a spray container that has been left unfilled. Step 6. Once done scrubbing, use clean water to wash away any residual soap residue. They can be directly applied to the surfaces of tubs and shower enclosures composed primarily of plastics such as acrylics and polymers. Wet a soft nylon brush with warm water. Chlorine 3. Plastic bathtubs can be stained and dirty easily because theyre in contact with water and water alone. How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. How to clean plastic bathtub 1. Scrub if necessary and then rinse with plain water. Dont worry if your plastic tub surround looks old because the right cleaning solutions will make it look brand new. 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. Allow it to sit for several minutes to allow it to absorb any dirt or grime present on its surface. Allow the vinegar to sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing it away with a microfiber cloth or soft sponge. Even while removing the tub surround from the wall isnt particularly challenging, doing so may result in substantial damage to the wall that lies behind it.The correct approach to removing a tub surround may be laborious and time-consuming, but it is the only way to assure that the surround will be removed with as little damage as possible.Put on goggles, long sleeves, trousers, and work gloves before beginning the job. Spray the tub surround with the. This is possible because the oxidizing effect of chlorine could get rid of most of any stains on your plastic bathtub. However, the plastic, which is actually a reinforced plastic fiberglass composite, can develop yellowing as it ages. When cleaning a plastic bathtub surround, vinegar( lemon juice) is an effective option that may be used. Acrylic that has been treated with Clean is algae-free and safe to use. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts baking soda to make a bathtub cleaning paste (or cream of tartar). You might let the vinegar or bleach sit on the surfaces for 15 or more minutes before scrubbing and rinsing for extra cleansing power. Baking soda is another great go-to cleaner for plastic tub surrounds. Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to remove wine stains from ceramic bathtubs. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Rinse away all traces of bleach residue using clean water after each application until all stains are gone. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. Cleaning a plastic tub surround is never easy because one wrong move and your shiny new bathtub could look worse with scratches. 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. Solvents: Its really important to remember not to use solvents like mineral spirits, acetone and turpentine on any type of plastic surface. They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. Vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can easily eliminate dirt, grime, hard water stains, and odors. 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. Scrub the surround with the baking soda and brush. Moisten the eraser sponge with hot water and scrub. How to Restore Shine to Plastic Bathtubs and Shower Enclosures How Do I Get My Tub Surround White Again - Knowledge Matrix Luckily, this too is a problem that can be tackled with simple white vinegar. Then, rinse clean with hot water. Acetone: wipe the acetone on the plastic with a soft cloth to remove stains caused by dye, paint or pigments. When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. Cut through your drywall along the edges with a Sawzall. How To Clean Acrylic Tubs And Shower Walls - YouTube 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. How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub | Hunker 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. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. Rinse the soiled sponge in the water many times throughout the cleaning process to avoid spreading dirt back onto the bathtub. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening. Plastic tub surrounds usually wipe clean easily because they feature a smooth surface with no grout lines to collect dirt. 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. There are so many brands available in the market. The chemical reaction will continue until the stain is almost entirely gone. Step 4. 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. How to Clean a Plastic Tub Surround | eHow They have the potential to leave behind residues that could harm the material. They can do a wide range of things: removing grease and grime, removing rust, and so on. When cleaning a plastic tub surround with a commercial cleaner, it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions. For cleaning your plastic bathtub, rubbing alcohol is the best you can use. After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. 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. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff bristle brushes to clean fiberglass surrounds. By emptying your bathtub first, youll be able to see the stains clearly, so you will know what areas to scrub harder. Create a bleach solution by mixing two tablespoons of bleach into two cups of water in a bowl or bucket. Your email address will not be published. Mix 1 tsp hand dishwashing soap in 1/2 gallon warm water. Be sure to thoroughly combine the dish soap and the water. Apply the Paste. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. I use vinegar on mine, but living alone and being neat and tidy helps, in a household with lots of people, not as easy. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. 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. Solvents, which you should never use on plastic tub surrounds, include mineral spirits, turpentine and acetone. Step 5. Wet a clean cloth with the soapy solution and use it to wash your newly whitened tub surround. 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. Step 1 Remove fabric shower curtains, rugs and spare towels from the bathroom before cleaning the tub. Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. Once ready, soak a microfiber cloth within this solution before scrubbing the plastic tub surrounding it gently. Most important, you should never use chemicals or abrasive materials on acrylic plastic. Dish soap, preferably Dawn or your preferred brand, Cleaner for the Bathroom and the Kitchen by CLR. Here are a few tips for a quick and easy oh how to clean plastic bathtub: If you want to clean another bathroom part, you can check how to clean toilet stains or how to get rid of urine smell in bathroom article! [18] Step 1 - Remove Excess Dirt From Fiberglass. Use a caulk tool or a plastic spoon to work the sealant into the joint. Repeat the wiping process with a fresh microfiber towel. Itll foam, so scrub it all over using a sponge or brush. 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 Paint a Tub & Shower Surround - YouTube Once done, wash away any remaining substance with clean water. 5. Scrub until the stains disappear. Hydrogen peroxide whitens your tub, and it will also bleach fabric. Removing any suds and dirt before they have a chance to set on the plastic will make them far easier to get rid of. The active ingredient in hand sanitizer is alcohol, which easily removes stains on the plastic. The whiting and wax fill scratches and whiten the surround. Scrub the baking soda into the bathtub and faucets with a moist cloth or sponge. Terry cloth towels also have some absorbency but need to be replaced more frequently than microfiber cloths do, as they deteriorate quickly with washing. Acetone or turpentine. 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. How to Clean a Fiberglass Tub Surround | DoItYourself.com 2 Step 2. 3 Ways to Remove Paint from an Acrylic Tub or Bath - wikiHow 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. You can repeat this process as often as needed until your tub is shiny and sparkling clean. Vinegar, lemon juice, all-purpose cleaner, and baking soda paste can be used for ultimate cleanliness. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. 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. The bleach should be diluted in water with roughly the same amount of each component. Create a paste for cleaning the bathtub by mixing one part baking soda with two parts hydrogen peroxide (or cream of tartar). Your email address will not be published. Before you attempt to actually clean your fiberglass tub surround, rinse the material with clean water. Rinse and dry. Use a bucket or a pitcher to rinse your tub. 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. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. Baking soda and vinegar 5. If there are stains, you might not know what can remove them. Vinegar will not damage a plastic tub surround when used for cleaning purposes. 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. Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. 6. By emptying the tub first, you will be able to access all the corners of your bathtub and clean it thoroughly. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the rounded tiles from the top of the tub surround. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. White distilled vinegar: fill a spray bottle with full-strength vinegar; let it stay there for a few minutes, and then scrub it off. 3 Right Methods: How to Clean Hands After Touching Raw Chicken, 10 Smart Ideas: How to Dispose of Concrete. Step 4. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. On the other hand, as time passes, the plastic, which is in reality a composite made of reinforced plastic and fiberglass, might turn yellow. Make use of a bristle brush to collect debris in the crevices and along the borders of the bathtub. 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. Irregular cleaning, chemical cleaners or a scratched, dull surface all can make the yellowing more severe. How to Whiten a Yellowed Plastic Tub Surround - SFGATE Wipe gently and slowly and dont apply pressure or use any sharp and hard objects and materials to rub the tub. 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 bubbles will loosen any dirt and grime. Step 4 Sprinkle baking soda onto the tub's surfaces and use the wet sponge to scrub it in gently. Allow this to sit for ten minutes, or for the amount of time that is specified on the label of the box. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Baking soda and vinegar are both common household ingredients. Step 1. Be sure to thoroughly combine the dish soap and the water. 3 Step 3. How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround | BEFORE & AFTER FIBERGLASS REFINISHING @DIYPowerCouple Subscribe for more DIY! Before you rinse the area, clean it . Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. Dishwashing detergent. Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. Pesky, caked-on stains in your plastic bathtub got you down? Alternatively, for extra-stubborn stains, you can use a combination of warm water and vinegar to clean your tub. The fourth step is to wipe away. 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. How to Clean Vinyl Tub Enclosures | Home Guides | SF Gate Cleaning liquid, or bathroom cleaner, is a very common cleaning agent. Vinegar that has been distilled. Rub the paste over the yellowed surround. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. Lime Away TSP Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. 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. If your acrylic tub is heavily stained or dirty, consider filling the tub with hot water and vinegar. The first step in restoring plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures has to be a deep clean. 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. How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs | Hunker Baking soda works wonders when it comes to lifting hard dirt and other stains from acrylic plastic. 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. Dont worry! To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. Melamine Sponges: As for melamine sponges, while their softness prevents them from causing deep scratches like steel wool does. How to Caulk a Tub Surround (DIY) - Family Handyman Spray all of your tub's surfaces, including cracks, crevices and hardware. Rinse off any remaining residue with fresh water. How To Clean Plastic Tub Surround: 6 DIY Methods [Effective]. 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. Drain and pat dry. 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. Then use a damp rag to scrub away the baking soda and rinse the tub. Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. 5 Step 5. If you want the best result, you can mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda. So what products can and should be used on acrylic plastic? But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. This will almost certainly cause scratches and other damage to your tub. 3 Step 3. 3 Ways to Clean a Fiberglass Tub - wikiHow Step 1. Their caustic nature could damage the surface or, even worse, cause etching if contact with the skin occurs. They are highly absorbent and can easily collect dirt, dust, and grime without leaving behind streaking or residue. Keeping your bathtub or shower looking clean and shiny should mean you don't need to worry about restoring it nearly as often. Professional cleaners can help you get rid of the dirt in your bathtub, and keep it looking great. Simply pour some white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it over the greasy tub surface. Rinse and wipe clean after 30 minutes or an hour after applying the paste. However, it's important to check the label for the description "nonabrasive" and "suitable for acrylic, plastic, polystyrene, ABS, etc." How to Whiten Plastic or Fiberglass Tubs & Showers | Hunker 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. 5 Step 5. After an hour go back inside and use a toilet brush to give the shower a gentle scrub and then rinse. If you're dealing with a dirty tub, you've come to the right place. Step 2. 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. How To Clean Plastic Shower Walls? - Nationwide Plastics Always remember to wear protective gear when using harsh chemicals! We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Dirt comes to all of your furniture including the bathtub. Alcohol 2. 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. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Video of the Day Step 2 Fill a spray bottle with a bathroom cleaner approved to treat rust stains. 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]. 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. For effective cleaning of a plastic tub surround, microfiber cloths should be used. Additionally, acrylic is warmer to the touch than fiberglass, and the surfaces of bathtubs made of acrylic are smoother than those made of fiberglass. 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. Ensure to take a look at the label for important details like non-abrasive and whether its suitable for materials such as plastic, ABS, polystyrene or acrylic. 2 Rinse the tub with water. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. Plastic bathtubs can be cleaned thoroughly with the right cleaning tools and proper technique. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Bleach is powerful enough to remove tough stains from plastic tub surrounds that cannot be removed with regular dish soap alone. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. 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. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day. Copyright 2023 Clean Curious.CleanCurious.com This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. How To Clean A Plastic Tub? - Nationwide Plastics Gloves are optional if you're cleaning with vinegar or dish soap. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. Drain and pat dry. Allow the mixture to dissolve. With the addition of moisture, the powder will take on a thick, foamy consistency. Dish soap is another effective cleaning solution for your plastic bathtub. CLR will certainly help. Spray the area, then wipe it off with a sponge, reserving the remaining solution to use on mirrors, windows, and other surfaces. How To Make Plastic Pots Look Like Ceramic? Step 3. Acrylic or plastic bathtubs and tub surrounds call for nonabrasive cleaning products only.