Bathtub stains are a plague in many bathrooms. No one wants to take a warm, relaxing bath in a tub stained with grime, mould, mildew, or rust. Not only do these issues cause unsightly stains, but they can also cause damage to the surface of your bathtub. If left untreated, your tub can deteriorate so badly it needs to be replaced. This expensive and time-consuming consequence makes it important to clean your bathtub to treat stains and prevent bacterial growth. Here are eight tips on how to make your bathtub sparkle:
1) Prevent soap scum and mildew from forming
The most effective way to avoid bacterial growth and rust buildup in your bathtub is to prevent soap scum, mildew, and other issues from forming in the first place. Mould and mildew thrive in areas that are warm and damp; hot showers create the perfect environment in which mould and bacteria can thrive. Be sure to wipe down your walls and tub after every shower to keep your tub dry. This will prevent bacteria and mould from becoming an issue in the first place, so stronger chemical cleaners will rarely be necessary.
2) Experiment with DIY cleaners
Before resorting to commercial chemical cleaners for your bathtub stains, mould, and mildew, experiment with DIY cleaners and other household solutions. There are a wide range of DIY solutions depending on your specific issue, so do some research on the most effective methods for cleaning your tub based on its material. Combining baking soda and water can help restore a bathtub to its shiny white gloss be removing dirt and debris; white vinegar can help kill bacteria and mould. These solutions are effective home remedies for common bathtub ailments, and they are much more affordable compared to most commercial cleaners.
3) Scrub properly
Beyond the type of cleaner you use, another important aspect of getting your bathtub to shine is using proper scrubbing techniques. Whether using DIY or commercial cleaners, be sure to give them plenty of time to set into the stain, mould, or mildew before scrubbing. If you do not wait long enough, the cleaner may not be as effective. This will cause you to spend more effort than necessary on scrubbing the surface of your tub. Scrubbing in a short, circular motion helps focus your scrubbing tool to eliminate stains more effectively. Depending on the tool you are using, be sure to not scrub so hard that you scratch the surface of the tub. This can cause more bacteria, mould, and mildew growth while also promoting the buildup of rust and other minerals. Watch out for scratches in the enamel of a tub, which can be sharp against your skin and cause you to cut your foot while showering.
4) Pick the right tools
There are a wide variety of tools available for scrubbing your bathtub. Be sure to pick the right tool based on the material your bath is made of. Acrylic tubs require soft washcloths, rags, or nylon brushes to prevent scratching the surface, but they are more effective at preventing stains. Porcelain tubs often need a bit more scrubbing, making a toothbrush an effective tool. It also may require bleach or another commercial cleaner to effectively remove dark stains. Depending on the material of your tub, you may need to source different scrubbing tools and cleaners to find the most effective combination.
5) Buy a showerhead filter
Filtering the water from your shower head is another effective way to prevent the buildup of rust and other stain-causing minerals. Showerhead filters catch minerals and chemicals from your water, preventing them from staining your bathtub. Well-water is often full of natural minerals, while municipal water sources often include treatment chemicals that are damaging to bathtub surfaces. Not only will a shower-head filter make your water softer on your hair and skin, but it will effectively minimize the minerals that come through your plumbing system. While filters must be changed on an annual basis, it is a small expense for those looking to protect the surface of their tub and soften their water.
6) Properly ventilate your bathroom
Proper ventilation is crucial in preventing the buildup of rust, mould, and mildew in your bathtub. As rust and mould thrive in moist environments, it is important that your bathtub is properly dried after every shower or bath. This includes both the surface of the tub and the flat surface and corners where you store your shampoo bottles. Hot showers keep the bathroom moist and humid. This can cause mildew to form on the walls, ceiling, and shower curtain, so be sure to use a fan or open a window whenever possible. If these options are unavailable, keep the door open or take a cool shower.
7) Unclog your drain regularly
Rust and mildew can also thrive in drains that are plugged. Not only can poor drainage cause the water to collect and rise quickly in your tub, but it also acts as a hotbed for bacterial and mould growth. Be sure to clean and unclog your drains on a regular basis to prevent more serious issues from developing. Opt for a commercial drain cleaner or DIY, homemade solution to solve drainage issues. As well, invest in a metal hair trap that prevents hair from getting caught in the drain. These simple solutions will ensure your bathtub drains properly, protecting your tub from bacteria and mould.
At Maid4Condos, we understand that some people simply do not have the time to properly clean their bathtub. We offer a variety of comprehensive cleaning services for every room in your house.
For more tips on making your bathtub sparkle, call Maid4Condos at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.
Share , Like & Engage On Social Media: