how to clean plastic tub surround

If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Don't assume enamel and fiberglass tub cleaners and polishes are suitable for plastic as well. Spread out a drop cloth over the tub, floor, and fixtures. Wet a clean cloth with the soapy solution and use it to wash your newly whitened tub surround. Step 2 - Venitlate room. They advise that you use the magic eraser with an oven cleaning to get the best results. In order to do so, pour a generous amount of peroxide into the bathtub. Begin by wetting the bathtub and pouring a few drops of shampoo on a damp rag. Do you have a bathtub that is discolored and stained? Let it stand for 10 minutes. Plastic bathtubs can be stained and dirty easily because theyre in contact with water and water alone. This makes them feel rather uninviting and can give your entire bathroom an old, worn-out vibe. 3 Step 3. Make sure all of the surfaces that you want to clean are wet. Despite pricey natural stone or tile with difficult-to-clean grout lines, Acrylic has a smooth surface that complements any look and feels and is easy to clean. But over time, plastic bathtubs and shower enclosures can start to look dull and dirty. Vinegar will not damage a plastic tub surround when used for cleaning purposes. Dont worry if your plastic tub surround looks old because the right cleaning solutions will make it look brand new. The last thing you want to do is cause more damage to the tub by trying to clean it yourself. Then, take an old toothbrush (or whatever your preferred brush is), and scrub the sides of your bathtub. Step 2. 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. The soapy solution will remove the hydrogen peroxide and laundry booster solution from the plastic. Acetone: wipe the acetone on the plastic with a soft cloth to remove stains caused by dye, paint or pigments. Make a paste with water and scrub the stall with a sponge or plastic applicator. Warm up around 100 milliliters of white vinegar in the microwave until it is hot. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. If you have an acrylic tub, you can use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath without worry, but you should avoid using bleach. Let the baking soda paste sit for five minutes before using a soft sponge or scrubbing brush to lightly rub away any residual dirt or grime. The hand sanitizer will dissolve the mildew stains, and get rid of them for good. Sometimes, chemicals and other treatments will be added to the water in order to help with the cleaning process and help treat injuries and wounds. 5. Cleaning your bathtub is easy with hand sanitizer. When cleaning a plastic or ABS tub enclosure there are certain products that should be avoided. By doing this, you can create a paste that you can use to scrub your bathtub. Pick up some painter's tape and use it to mask off the seam to help make cleaning up easier. 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. Here you will learn more about how to clean a plastic bathtub. 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. 10 Effective Tips: How to Remove Yellow Stains from Shoes, 8 Safe Ways: How to Dispose of Fragrance Oils. You might let the vinegar or bleach sit on the surfaces for 15 or more minutes before scrubbing and rinsing for extra cleansing power. They will be able to bring your bathtub back to its previous condition, without causing any damage. They can be directly applied to the surfaces of tubs and shower enclosures composed primarily of plastics such as acrylics and polymers. After an hour go back inside and use a toilet brush to give the shower a gentle scrub and then rinse. Then, rinse clean with hot water. Here's how to clean a plastic bathtub using a few tried-and-true methods and ingredients. Take a nylon sponge that won't scratch surfaces and dip it in the soapy water. Step 1. Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Several of them will have a 30-year or longer lifetime. In fact, white vinegar is often used as an all-natural cleaner for removing mildew from surfaces like bathtubs and shower surrounds made of plastic materials. 2. Create a paste by adding 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide to a bowl. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. Overstock recommends mixing a solution of equal parts vinegar and water and using a spray bottle to apply it all over your plastic bathroom fitting. Soft sponges are also useful for cleaning plastic tub surrounds as their shape makes them ideal for reaching into corners and other areas that might otherwise go uncleaned. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Do you want to get rid of all that unattractive residue? Rinse off any remaining residue with fresh water. Give it at least sixty minutes to an hour to mature. 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. Spray the soapy mixture onto the plastic tub surround and let it sit for at least five minutes before scrubbing. Before you rinse the area, clean it . Instead, use a cleaner designed specifically for tubs and tiles if the tub is really grimy. 2 Step 2. To clean your tub, start by flushing it out with hot water. Their caustic nature could damage the surface or, even worse, cause etching if contact with the skin occurs. You never know what bacteria could breed in the damp and humid surfaces in these areas. Your email address will not be published. Video of the Day Step 2 Fill a spray bottle with a bathroom cleaner approved to treat rust stains. Hydrogen Peroxide 4. They are highly absorbent and can easily collect dirt, dust, and grime without leaving behind streaking or residue. Acrylic that has been treated with Clean is algae-free and safe to use. Wear your protective gear The use of a magic eraser, according to a number of individuals, is the only approach that is capable of effectively cleaning a fiberglass shower. Baking soda. How To Paint a Tub & Shower Surround | BEFORE & AFTER FIBERGLASS REFINISHING @DIYPowerCouple Subscribe for more DIY! Use a cloth to scrub the tub and finish removing the stains. The bleach should be diluted in water with roughly the same amount of each component. Then, rinse it all with water. Their uneven texture can still lead to light scratching which ruins the appearance of a smooth finish on a bathtub surrounding area. The most recent accessory to be added to your collection of tools for cleaning glass is Mr. Give your plastic tub enclosures a sparkling clean finish with vinegar. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents on a plastic tub surround, as they can permanently damage it. After that, spray the solution over the glass door of your shower and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Method 1 Removing Fresh Paint Using Soap and Water Download Article 1 Run some hot water over the paint spot. Scrub all of the surfaces of the bathtub using a scrub sponge or a stiff nylon brush that has been dipped in the bucket. Rust stain-approved cleaners often stain fabrics. Rinse away all traces of bleach residue using clean water after each application until all stains are gone. Fill up your bathtub with two inches of hot water, and add one cup of hand sanitizer. Your email address will not be published. Diluted bleach is another great option for cleaning bathtub surrounds. Before you attempt to actually clean your fiberglass tub surround, rinse the material with clean water. Plastic bathtubs are durable and long-lasting. Then, mix vinegar with water into a spray bottle and spray it on the stained area of your bathtub. There are so many brands available in the market. Next, add one tablespoon of a gentle liquid dish detergent to the pail. Just make sure to choose a cleaning liquid made for plastic bathtubs, in case the chemical in the cleaning liquid is not compatible with plastic. 6. Cleaning a plastic bathtub is a different process than cleaning a porcelain or fiberglass tub. Use a hammer and chisel to remove the rounded tiles from the top of the tub surround. 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. To loosen grime and remove oils from the skin, scrub the entire bathtub with the soapy nylon sponge. 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. Before attempting this process, the plastic should be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Follow the directions on the back of the tube for cure time. Step 2. Once clean, a thin coat of either cream peroxide or tartar should be applied evenly to the entire surface of the plastic. Rub this paste into the stains and give it about half an hour to take effect. Turn the water off. Allow the vinegar to be absorbed by the deposits and scum for fifteen minutes. The bubbles produced by hydrogen peroxide also make it more efficient at removing dirty stains than using just water would. 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. Hydrogen peroxide produced more oxygen than plain water does, which is why its often used to unclog drains and toilets. Step 1. 3 Right Methods: How to Clean Hands After Touching Raw Chicken, 10 Smart Ideas: How to Dispose of Concrete. Make a paste using baking soda and water, the consistency of which should be comparable to that of toothpaste. This will help loosen the dirt and grime before you clean the tub. After waiting an hour, use a towel or sponge to massage the area. Spray, turn the exhaust fan on and close the door behind you. 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. How do you whiten plastic shower walls? To begin this process, you will need to prepare the mixture by combining one part vinegar and one part baking soda together in a bowl. Simply pour some white vinegar into a spray bottle and spritz it over the greasy tub surface. Bleach should be diluted in water with approximately equal parts of each, sprayed or wiped on the surfaces and then rinsed with water. What Part Of The Mantle Bends Like Plastic? Some brands of enamel and fiberglass cleaner and polish products are abrasive, while others are not. They have more texture which allows them to break up dirt easier. Doing so will loosen soaps and other products, facilitating the cleaning process. After that, flush it with water to remove any stains from the bathtub. The active ingredient in hand sanitizer is alcohol, which easily removes stains on the plastic. Using a good bathroom cleaner and a soft cloth with warm water is the best way to remove the bulk of your bathtub's dirt and grime. Then use a damp rag to scrub away the baking soda and rinse the tub. Its effective at removing grease and grime without harsh chemicals. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. 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. Dry the surround after every use to prevent discoloration and yellowing. Apply this paste to the affected areas of your tub or shower enclosure and then leave it for around an hour to really work at the limescale. Bathtubs are great to enjoy a relaxing bath whenever you feel tired. 2 Step 2. Flush the area with water after youre done. Step 1. [1] Avoid abrasive cleansers like scouring powders. White distilled vinegar: fill a spray bottle with full-strength vinegar; let it stay there for a few minutes, and then scrub it off. Then, rub or wipe the surface of the tub with some rubbing alcohol on a wet paper towel or cotton ball to remove stains or mildew. Once youve scrubbed the desired area thoroughly, rinse away any remaining residue with cold water. Spray the tub surround with the cleaner. If the stain still has a white, chalky appearance, spritz it with white vinegar diluted to the maximum amount. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts baking soda to make a bathtub cleaning paste (or cream of tartar). Combine 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Make a paste of equal parts cleanser powder and water. Soft rags or scrubbers may also be used as needed but should only do so if absolutely necessary- these tools can leave scratches if not handled properly so caution should be taken when using them for tough stains or debris. Scrub with a brush until the stain is gone. This is possible because the oxidizing effect of chlorine could get rid of most of any stains on your plastic bathtub. 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. To avoid the accumulation of soap scum and dirt, clean the shower once per week with a gentle cleaner and water. You can also wet a clean sponge or washcloth and use it to rub in the cleaner until it thickens. Rinse cleaning. Thorough weekly cleanings, occasional stain removal and semi-annual waxing help whiten the plastic and bring back the luster of the tub surround. Keeping your bathtub or shower looking clean and shiny should mean you don't need to worry about restoring it nearly as often. The key to keeping it that way is through daily shower maintenance. The dirt caused by these chemicals and treatments could stick to the tub and become a permanent stain. Limescale and other mineral deposits can grip onto your plastic tub or shower and cause it to look dingy and dull. Rinse and dry. 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. Rinse the soiled sponge in the water many times throughout the cleaning process to avoid spreading dirt back onto the bathtub. Check the area around the tubs borders to see whether it is thinner there; if it is, this may be a sign that the tub is made of acrylic. 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. Spray the area, then wipe it off with a sponge, reserving the remaining solution to use on mirrors, windows, and other surfaces. Applying the paste to the yellowed surroundings will help. The coating provides protection against discoloration from ultraviolet rays. Create a paste for cleaning the bathtub by mixing one part baking soda with two parts hydrogen peroxide (or cream of tartar). Cleaning products vary considerably in their ingredients even from the same brand, so just be sure to double-check before using these products on plastic. How To Make Plastic Pots Look Like Ceramic? Create a bleach solution by mixing two tablespoons of bleach into two cups of water in a bowl or bucket. Use this in the same way as you would use dish detergent. This will almost certainly cause scratches and other damage to your tub. You can resurface plastic by using specialized products designed specifically for this purpose. Allow the plastic tub surround to dry completely before being used again afterward. 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.