Chlorine is very harmful if its not handled properly. Harsh chemical cleaners: Harsh chemical cleaners like oven cleaner or drain cleaner are also not suitable for plastic material. The resulting solution should then be stirred with a spoon until it is completely blended together. Apply a light coat of white auto cream wax to the entire surround with a cotton cloth. 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. Check the bathtub for any mineral deposits or soap scum that may still be there. Step 1 Fill a spray bottle with 3-percent hydrogen peroxide, which is found in drugstores or convenience stores for a minimal price. Spray the soapy mixture onto the plastic tub surround and let it sit for at least five minutes before scrubbing. Plastic bathtubs can be cleaned thoroughly with the right cleaning tools and proper technique. To avoid the accumulation of soap scum and dirt, clean the shower once per week with a gentle cleaner and water. These scuff marks are difficult to repair and could end up making your bathroom look even dirtier. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. Apply this paste onto the stained area of the tub and leave it for about 10 minutes. However, it's important to check the label for the description "nonabrasive" and "suitable for acrylic, plastic, polystyrene, ABS, etc." 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. The first method of cleaning is to make use of a cleaning agent that is safe for acrylic. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. Step 4. They will come to your home and give it a quick thorough cleaning! 3 Ways to Remove Paint from an Acrylic Tub or Bath - wikiHow 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. The bleach should be diluted in water with roughly the same amount of each component. 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 4. Rinse off any remaining residue with fresh 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. For tough stains, scrub the area with cream cleanser solutions to dissolve the stains. 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. By emptying the tub first, you will be able to access all the corners of your bathtub and clean it thoroughly. Step 2. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Step 1. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. Rust stain-approved cleaners often stain fabrics. Surfaces can be scratched or damaged when using a sponge with a rough surface. 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. Cleaning your bathtub is easy with hand sanitizer. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, How to Clean a Really Dirty Plastic Bathtub, How to Remove Yellowing From Plastic Bathtubs. If you're dealing with a dirty tub, you've come to the right place. To use chlorine to clean a bathtub, you can simply sprinkle chlorine to a bathtub that has stains. Pesky, caked-on stains in your plastic bathtub got you down? You can repeat this process as often as needed until your tub is shiny and sparkling clean. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. The coating provides protection against discoloration from ultraviolet rays. 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. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Your email address will not be published. Surrounds only require waxing twice a year to look good. Moisten the brush with fresh water as needed. Rinse off the baking soda paste with some fresh water and enjoy your newly refreshed plastic tub surround. 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. 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 the water and use a rag to get rid of any residue. 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. 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. 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. White distilled vinegar: fill a spray bottle with full-strength vinegar; let it stay there for a few minutes, and then scrub it off. 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. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. How To Clean Plastic Shower Surround? - Nationwide Plastics [18] Their caustic nature could damage the surface or, even worse, cause etching if contact with the skin occurs. 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. They will be able to bring your bathtub back to its previous condition, without causing any damage. Be sure to rinse the rag often to get rid of soap residue. Yellowed plastic can be whitened by using cream peroxide or tartar. Increase the ventilation in your bathroom. Hand sanitizer 7. If your acrylic tub is heavily stained or dirty, consider filling the tub with hot water and vinegar. You can use a dishwashing or liquid laundry detergent. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined. How To Remove A Tub Surround With Adhesive (Step-by-Step Guide) 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. You can also use shampoo or body soap. Begin by mixing two tablespoons of dish detergent into one gallon of warm water in a spray bottle, stirring thoroughly until fully combined. Your email address will not be published. How to Restore Shine to Plastic Bathtubs and Shower Enclosures You can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. 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. How to Caulk a Tub Surround (DIY) - Family Handyman Step 1. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening. Dissolved white vinegar in water. Step 3. However, they tend to accumulate stains over time. 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. A Guide to Cleaning an Extremely Soiled Plastic Bathtub First, take a pail and fill it with half a gallon of hot water. Diluted bleach is another great option for cleaning bathtub surrounds. 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. Using either a terry cloth towel or microfiber cloth, scrub the surface of the tub surround until all dirt and grime have been removed. What Part Of The Mantle Bends Like Plastic? Cleaning a plastic bathtub is a different process than cleaning a porcelain or fiberglass tub. In order to do so, pour a generous amount of peroxide into the bathtub. Vinegar that has been distilled. 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. Chlorine 3. 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. 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. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Rinse multiple times and wipe completely to prevent streaks. With the addition of moisture, the powder will take on a thick, foamy consistency. When cleaning a plastic bathtub surround, vinegar( lemon juice) is an effective option that may be used. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. A mixture of water and vinegar. Create a paste by adding 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to a bowl. Cleaning liquid, or bathroom cleaner, is a very common cleaning agent. Baking soda paste is also an excellent choice for cleaning a plastic tub surround. Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Step 1. Spray the floor of the cage after beginning at the top and working your way down. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Another tip of how to clean plastic bathtub is using your home ingredients. Remember, Its important to know the right way of using chemicals. 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. Let it sit on the surface for 10 minutes. Wipe gently and slowly and dont apply pressure or use any sharp and hard objects and materials to rub the tub. This particular one is quite easy to understand. Allow the mixture to dissolve. After that, flush the bathtub with plenty of fresh running water. After you've used your usual bathroom cleaner on your plastic tub, you may wish to do a second cleanse using white vinegar. By doing this, you can create a paste that you can use to scrub your bathtub. Cleaning a plastic tub surround does not have to be hard or time-consuming if done properly. The question arises of how you can safely scrub away dirt and soap scum without damaging the material. Then, use a scouring brush to scrub off the moldy spots. When cleaning a plastic or ABS tub enclosure there are certain products that should be avoided. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. Before you attempt to actually clean your fiberglass tub surround, rinse the material with clean water. It is your source for tips, tricks, cleaning tools, and anything related to cleaning that will help you live a cleaner lifestyle. How To Clean Plastic Tub Surround: 6 DIY Methods [Effective] When you are cleaning, you should make use of a sponge or towel that is not abrasive. Solvents: Its really important to remember not to use solvents like mineral spirits, acetone and turpentine on any type of plastic surface. Plastic bathtubs are durable and long-lasting. Wet & Forget Shower is a weekly shower cleanser that does not require scrubbing and is kind to surfaces made of acrylic and fiberglass. Lemon remains to be an excellent natural cleaner. 1. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. Step 8. They also wont harm the surface of the tub, so it can remain scratch-free during cleaning. 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. 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. Simply cleaning it will remove any stains caused by harsh water. Protect your skin, eyes, and lungs by wearing long sleeves, long pants, gloves, goggles, and a mask. Gloves are optional if you're cleaning with vinegar or dish soap. Spray the tub surround with the. Dirt comes to all of your furniture including the bathtub. Solvents, which you should never use on plastic tub surrounds, include mineral spirits, turpentine and acetone. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Its important to wear the proper safety equipment when cleaning with a chemical in a plastic tub in order to protect yourself from potential damage. 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. 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. Rinse the soiled sponge under the running water as often as you can so that you do not spread dirt back onto the bathtub. 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. The most recent accessory to be added to your collection of tools for cleaning glass is Mr. Cut through your drywall along the edges with a Sawzall. Rub this paste into the stains and give it about half an hour to take effect. 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! Your email address will not be published. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. If there are stains, you might not know what can remove them. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Your email address will not be published. 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. Put two tablespoons of dish soap and a half gallon of hot water in your bucket, and then fill the bucket with hot water. Step 3. There are so many brands available in the market. Dont worry! Technically, you can safely use lemon water, hand sanitizer, and dish soap (among other products) to remove hard dirt from your tub. 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. For cleaning your plastic bathtub, rubbing alcohol is the best you can use. 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. Rub the surface of the tub as thoroughly as possible. Make a paste with water and scrub the stall with a sponge or plastic applicator. Acrylic that has been treated with Clean is algae-free and safe to use. 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. Start by spraying your cleaner directly onto the affected area of the plastic tub surround. Acetone or turpentine. Scrub if necessary and then rinse with plain water. Cleaning liquid 9. Once youve scrubbed the desired area thoroughly, rinse away any remaining residue with cold water. It works to gently exfoliate away dirt and grime while being safe for use on most surfaces. 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/ This particular one is quite easy to understand. Step 2 - Venitlate room. The piece of plastic should be placed inside the container. Mix the cleaner with water and spray it all over the tub. Before you rinse the area, clean it . Using a scrubbing brush, scrub the tub until its cleaned. The last thing you want to do is cause more damage to the tub by trying to clean it yourself. 6. 6 Tips: How to Dispose of Fireworks Like a Pro! Be sure to choose soft clothes such as microfiber cloth or terry towels for best results. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. Your email address will not be published. This will almost certainly cause scratches and other damage to your tub. They are highly absorbent and can easily collect dirt, dust, and grime without leaving behind streaking or residue. 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. All-purpose household or bathroom cleaner. 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. The first step in restoring plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures has to be a deep clean. Fill the tub with hot water and pour in 2 cups (470 mL) of vinegar. 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.. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. Terry cloth towels also have some absorbency but need to be replaced more frequently than microfiber cloths do, as they deteriorate quickly with washing. It will be easier to remove the stain if you give the plastic time to soak in the sunlight. How to Clean and Restore Shine to a Fiberglass Tub | Hunker How To Transfer Plant From Plastic To Pot? 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. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Discard the towels in a trash bag. You can also use a more intense cleaner like a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on any areas where you begin to see buildup. Your email address will not be published. Step 6. 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. It can help to sanitize the surface but should never be used in its concentrated form because it can damage the plastic surface. Apply the paste to the stained area and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. Doing so will loosen soaps and other products, facilitating the cleaning process. Step 2. Step 3. Scouring Pads: Scouring pads, too, could cause scratching due to their rough texture so these should not be used either. 3 Ways to Clean a Fiberglass Tub - wikiHow How to Clean Your Acrylic Shower or Tub | Delta Faucet Blog Moisten the eraser sponge with hot water and scrub. Step 3 Wet a cleaning sponge with vinegar. If required, carry out the procedure once more until the stain is removed. 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. Use a cloth to scrub the tub and finish removing the stains. If the dirt is particularly stubborn and difficult to remove, it may be wise to use something more abrasive like a terry cloth towel. CLR will certainly help. Plastic tub surrounds usually wipe clean easily because they feature a smooth surface with no grout lines to collect dirt. Make use of a bristle brush to collect debris in the crevices and along the borders of the bathtub. Wait 15 minutes for the chlorine to work on the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes up to an hour before using it against the surface of your plastic tub surround. How To Clean Textured Fiberglass or Plastic Shower Floor - YouTube How To Clean Plastic Tub Surrounds? - Nationwide Plastics 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. 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. Wear your protective gear Vinegar, lemon juice, all-purpose cleaner, and baking soda paste can be used for ultimate cleanliness. Imfoto/Shutterstock. With your fingers or a clean, soft cloth, apply the baking soda paste over the greasy surfaces. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. Vinegar will not damage a plastic tub surround when used for cleaning purposes. 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. 3 Ways to Clean an Acrylic Tub - wikiHow 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. Rinse and dry. Plastic bathtubs can be stained and dirty easily because theyre in contact with water and water alone. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. 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. Mix baking soda with water to make the paste, then sprinkle it into the bathtub especially in the stained area. 6. Take a nylon sponge that won't scratch surfaces and dip it in the soapy water. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. Make sure to rinse the tub off afterward so any remaining rubbing alcohol doesnt dry onto the surface of your tub. To clean your tub, start by flushing it out with hot water. Itll foam, so scrub it all over using a sponge or brush. Melamine Sponges: As for melamine sponges, while their softness prevents them from causing deep scratches like steel wool does. However, over time due to everyday use, bathtubs can get dirty and stained. How to Clean a Fiberglass Tub Surround | DoItYourself.com How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround - YouTube How to clean plastic bathtub is an ordinary problem in your bathroom. After you've removed any grime and mineral deposits from your tub, you should have it looking shiny and new. Bleach is powerful enough to remove tough stains from plastic tub surrounds that cannot be removed with regular dish soap alone. Baking soda. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or stiff bristle brushes to clean fiberglass surrounds. The hand sanitizer will dissolve the mildew stains, and get rid of them for good. How do you whiten plastic shower walls? If you are planning to clean your acrylic tub using a ready-made cleaner, you need to read the label very carefully to make sure that the cleaner wont scratch the surface of the tub. Step 1 - Heat vinegar. Method 1 Removing Fresh Paint Using Soap and Water Download Article 1 Run some hot water over the paint spot. So what products can and should be used on acrylic plastic? Simply fill the tub with equal parts water and vinegar and allow this solution to sit for at least 15 minutes. 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. Professional cleaners can help you get rid of the dirt in your bathtub, and keep it looking great. Mild dish soap can also be used to clean the plastic tub surround as it is gentle yet effective for removing dirt and grime. You should use soft cloths such as microfiber or terry towels, sponges, or rags when cleaning a plastic tub enclosure. Spray the lemon water on the tub and leave it there until evening, or for a whole night. Step 2. 3 Step 3. The dirt caused by these chemicals and treatments could stick to the tub and become a permanent stain. Warm up around 100 milliliters of white vinegar in the microwave until it is hot. These leave scratches that attract dirt and make the surround difficult to clean. Irregular cleaning, chemical cleaners or a scratched, dull surface all can make the yellowing more severe. 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. 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.