How to Clean a Bathtub

Learn how to clean your bathtub step-by-step with these easy instructions. Including what tools and supplies you need and how to clean your bathtub and drain with baking soda and vinegar.

The Best Way to Clean a Bathtub

After a long day, who doesn't love to unwind with a nice, warm bath? But while there's nothing quite as relaxing as quiet time in the bathtub, you might want to think twice before stepping inside one. In Bustle's feature on germs found in the bathroom, NYU microbiologist Dr. Phillip M. Tierno shares that harmful bacteria like E.coli, streptococcus, and staph grow in warm and wet bathtubs if they're not completely dried.

So, does this mean that you shouldn't use your bathtub at all? Of course not! When you get all the grime, dirt, and stains out, you can keep yourself fresh and clean while enjoying the wonders of a warm bath. However, there's more to cleaning it than simply wiping it down. Let's take a closer look at how to keep your bathtub properly polished.

What Cleaning Materials Do I Need to Clean a Bathtub?

• Bathroom cleaner
• Tile cleaner
• Bicarbonate of soda
• Baking soda
• Vinegar

You might be wondering what's the best cleaner to use. Although most products can get the job done, you should consider combining Dawn detergent and plain white vinegar for a more efficient wash. This cleaning alternative is so effective that it's also recommended for cleaning the oven, eliminating weeds, and killing fruit flies.

Tools for Bathtub Cleaning

• Cleaning brush
• Metal wire
• Sprayer
• An old toothbrush

How Often Should I Clean My Bathtub?

Bacteria can grow at a rapid rate. To keep these germs at bay, it's best to give your bathtub a good wash once a week. If you think you might have trouble remembering to do so, you can pick a day a week — ideally, a Saturday or Sunday so you have enough time to clean every inch — and make it your 'Bathtub Cleaning Day'. Apart from being a helpful reminder, your 'Bathtub Cleaning Day' is the perfect time to check if the tub is draining water properly.

How to Clean the Bathtub Drain with Vinegar and Baking Soda

The drain plays a big role in your bathtub's sanitation, since a blocked one can cause dirty water to float around. Thankfully, blocked drains are a common problem that can be easily fixed. HomeServe Living’s guide to unblocking bathtub drains explains that you can use a hook-shaped metal wire to scrape out the gunk inside.

Then, pour 15 tablespoons bicarbonate of soda into the pipe, followed by 3 ⅓ ounces of vinegar to cleanse it. Once the fizzing stops, flush it out with boiling water.

Don't Forget to Clean the Shower Curtain Too.

If you have a shower curtain, be sure to set aside time to clean it as well. To remove the grime, CNET's post on machine washing a shower curtain shares that you should use warm water and regular detergent, before setting your washing machine to a regular cycle.

Skip the fabric softener and dryer, as these can ruin your shower curtain. And if you notice mold on it, you should clean it by simply spritzing it with a mixture of baking soda, water, and vinegar. From there, you can scrub it down with a brush to take out the build-up.

Directions for Cleaning Your Bathtub

Remove all items inside your bathtub, from your shampoo to loofahs, and even your shower curtain if you have one.
Wash the curtain first so you don't have to wait long for it to dry.
Clean the drain by ensuring that it's not blocked with gunk.
Spread your selected cleaner on the interiors of your bathtub and let it sit for at least three minutes.
Slightly soak your brush, and then scrub your bathtub from top to bottom. If you spot smaller particles of dirt, use an old toothbrush and rub thoroughly to get rid of them.
Get a cup or bucket of water to rinse everything away.
Lastly, wipe your tub down with a towel to make sure it's fully dried.