How to deep clean a bathtub

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Introduction

Noticing soap scum, grime, or yellow stains on your tub that just won’t budge with regular cleaning? It’s time for a deep clean. This guide on how to deep clean a bathtub will walk you through every step needed to remove stubborn buildup, eliminate bacteria, and restore your tub to a sparkling clean state — whether it’s acrylic, porcelain, enamel, or fiberglass.

Why Deep Cleaning Your Bathtub Matters

Bathtubs are constantly exposed to dirt, body oils, dead skin cells, hard water, and soap residue. While regular cleaning helps maintain surface-level cleanliness, it doesn’t address the deeper buildup that settles into grout lines, drain edges, and textured surfaces.

Deep cleaning your bathtub not only improves its appearance but also prevents mildew, mold, odors, and bacterial growth — especially in corners, drains, and under soap dishes. A clean tub is more hygienic, looks better, and enhances your overall bathing experience. Plus, the cleaner your tub, the easier it is to maintain long-term.

Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning a Bathtub

1. Gather Your Supplies

Here’s what you’ll need for a successful deep clean:

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Dish soap or mild bathroom cleaner
  • Bleach (optional, for mold or mildew)
  • Spray bottle
  • Scrub brush or sponge
  • Old toothbrush
  • Microfiber cloth or paper towels
  • Bucket (optional)
  • Rubber gloves

Note: If your tub is made of a delicate material like acrylic or fiberglass, avoid harsh scrubbers or abrasive powders. Always test a small area first.

2. Clear and Rinse the Tub

Remove all items from the tub, including shampoo bottles, razors, toys, or soap dishes. Give the tub a quick rinse with warm water to loosen surface dirt and prep it for cleaning.

Bathroom Tip: Open a window or turn on the exhaust fan for ventilation, especially if using bleach or vinegar.

3. Apply a Baking Soda Paste

Sprinkle baking soda over the entire tub surface. For extra cleaning power, mix baking soda with a little dish soap to create a thick paste. Use a sponge or brush to spread it over stained areas, especially around the drain, faucet, and corners where grime collects.

Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to break down soap scum and lift stains.

4. Spray With Vinegar

Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and mist it over the baking soda-covered tub. The reaction will create a fizz that helps lift grime and mineral buildup from the surface.

Allow the mixture to sit and foam for another 10 minutes, especially on stubborn spots.

5. Scrub Thoroughly

Using a soft scrub brush or sponge, begin scrubbing the entire tub in circular motions. Focus on problem areas:

  • Around the drain and overflow plate
  • In corners and grout lines
  • Along the tub’s edges and fixtures
  • Near the faucet where water collects

Use an old toothbrush for tight spots and detail work. Add more baking soda and vinegar as needed for tough stains.

Pro Tip: For textured tubs or non-slip surfaces, use a soft-bristle brush to get into grooves without scratching.

6. Rinse with Warm Water

Once you’ve scrubbed the entire tub, rinse it thoroughly with warm water. Use a bucket or showerhead sprayer to help wash away all the residue, grime, and cleaning mixture. Make sure no baking soda or vinegar remains, especially in corners or textured surfaces.

7. Treat Mold or Mildew (If Needed)

If you notice dark spots or mildew along caulking or in tile grout around the tub, apply a bleach solution:

  • Mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water in a spray bottle
  • Spray directly onto the affected area
  • Let it sit for 5–10 minutes
  • Scrub with a toothbrush or grout brush
  • Rinse thoroughly

Caution: Never mix bleach and vinegar. Use them separately and rinse between applications.

8. Buff and Dry the Tub

Once the tub is clean and rinsed, use a dry microfiber cloth or towel to buff the surface and remove excess water. This helps prevent hard water spots and leaves your tub shiny and smooth.

9. Clean the Fixtures

Don’t forget to clean the faucet, spout, and drain covers. Spray them with vinegar or a disinfectant, let sit briefly, then wipe clean with a cloth or sponge. Use an old toothbrush to detail around fixture bases.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these errors to keep your tub in top condition:

  • Mistake: Using harsh abrasives on delicate surfaces
    Solution: Stick to baking soda and non-abrasive sponges for acrylic and fiberglass tubs.
  • Mistake: Not rinsing thoroughly
    Solution: Residue left behind can lead to dullness or sticky buildup. Always rinse and dry.
  • Mistake: Cleaning without ventilation
    Solution: Keep windows open or fans running to avoid inhaling strong fumes, especially from bleach.
  • Mistake: Ignoring the drain and overflow plate
    Solution: Scrub these hidden areas too — they trap hair and soap scum and can smell over time.
  • Mistake: Using bleach and vinegar together
    Solution: Use only one at a time and rinse in between to avoid dangerous chemical reactions.

Extra Tips & Bathroom Hacks

  • Use lemon juice for shine: After cleaning, wipe down the tub with a cloth soaked in lemon juice to add shine and a fresh scent.
  • Try a dish wand: Fill a dish wand with dish soap and vinegar for quick weekly tub touch-ups — hang it in the shower for easy access.
  • Prevent future buildup: Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to dry the tub after each use. This helps prevent hard water spots and mold.

👉 Want to tackle other deep cleaning jobs? Check out our guide on how to disinfect a bathroom sink for a spotless and germ-free bathroom space.

Conclusion

Deep cleaning your bathtub isn’t just about making it look nice — it’s about removing hidden grime, bacteria, and buildup that regular cleaning can miss. With baking soda, vinegar, a few basic tools, and a little effort, you can restore your tub’s sparkle and keep your bathroom hygienic and fresh.

Bookmark this guide and schedule a deep clean every 2–4 weeks to keep your bathtub pristine and inviting all year round.