After working hard all day, a hot bath is the perfect way to unwind. However, bathtubs experience constant exposure to water which causes soap scum build-up. This means your bath will become grimy over time unless you clean it regularly.
Hard plastic baths can be tricky to clean. They require some special care to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips on how to clean a plastic bath.
Use Non-Corrosive Products
If you have a plastic bathtub, make sure you avoid corrosive cleaning products. Chemicals like bleach, acetone, paint thinner and aerosol-canned cleaners are often too harsh to use on acrylic plastic tubs.
Bleach is a highly effective sanitiser, but it can damage plastic bathtubs if it’s not diluted. As long as it is diluted enough, you can use it to clean acrylic bathtubs without harming the finish or discolouring it. Be careful not to use chemicals that might erode the plastic sides of the bath.
Cleaning a Plastic Bath with Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar
An all-natural mixture of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar makes an effective cleaning solution and stain remover.
Spraying a homemade solution of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar can be much more effective than store-bought cleaners. This mixture is most effective if you let it sit and soak for a while.
The chemical reaction breaks down stubborn soap build-up on plastic baths. Scrub the tub with the solution and wipe it clean with a soft towel.
Be Careful When Mixing Products
Mixing different cleaning products can be very dangerous. Inhaling a dangerous chemical concoction could cause lung irritation, respiratory issues, or burning eyes, nose, and throat.
Choose mild detergents like dish soap, borax substitute and water, citrus fruits, shampoo, hydrogen peroxide, and bicarbonate of soda, cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide, or white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda.
Use Soft Tools to Avoid Damaging the Bathtub
Use a soft sponge, cloth or a tool with soft bristles to clean the sides of the bath.
Abrasive materials like steel wool and hard bristles damage acrylic plastic. Soft towels, cloths, and sponges are appropriate for gently scrubbing plastic baths.
Hard tools will cause cracks and scratches on plastic. Never use rough tools to clean an acrylic bath!
Steam Clean Germs Away
Steam cleaning is an effective way of cleaning a plastic tub. Steam will sanitise the sides of the bath while leaving the acrylic finish intact.
Bacteria are killed by steam, and soap scum is easily broken up and wiped away.
Steam clean every part of the bath and wipe away dirt with a microfiber towel. Plastic surfaces require gentle care to stay free of imperfections. Steam is a non-abrasive way to clean tubs made of plastic.
In The Wash is your guide to the best laundry and cleaning products, tips and tricks. Our mission is to solve the UK’s cleaning and laundry dilemmas!
