How to Clean Bathtub the Right Way

There’s nothing more relaxing and therapeutic than soaking in a clean, sparkling bathtub. Not only does it provide a space to cleanse the body, but it also provides a soothing and stress-relieving experience. 

However, grimy buildup, stains, and mold cannot only look unpleasant but also make your soak less relaxing and pose a potential threat to personal hygiene. 

Without regular bathtub cleaning, germs, bacteria, dirt, hard-water deposits, soap scum, and even mold or mildew can build up over time, increasing the risk of skin infections and various bacterial and viral infections.

To prevent that from occurring, you need to clean your bathtub frequently. But here’s the good news: “You don’t need a fancy tool or harsh chemicals to restore your tub’s shine.” With the right steps and a reliable bathroom cleaner, you can make your bathtub look as good as new. 

This article breaks down how to clean bathtub with minimal scrubbing, saving time and money. 

Cleaning the bathtub, but first! 

To simplify your bathtub cleaning, take out all toiletries, including bath toys, loofahs, and bottles of shampoo and conditioner, before tackling your stained tub.

Make sure to clear the bathtub drain. Remove the drain stopper and gently pull out the clog, if you spot it, such as hair or a small toy.

Also, open the bathroom doors and windows, and turn on the exhaust fan (if available) to ensure good ventilation during cleaning. 

What you’ll need for bathtub cleaning  

• Rubber gloves
• Soft bristle brush
• Microfiber cloth(s) for drying
• Dettol Bathroom Power Cleaner Trigger

How to clean a bathtub

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning a stained bathtub! First, safeguard your hands by putting on rubber gloves. 

Step 1: Wet the tub

Rinse the tub with water (preferably warm) to loosen surface dirt and soften dried-on grime, making the scrubbing process easier later on.

Step 2: Apply cleaning solution 

Generously spray Dettol Bathroom Power Cleaner Trigger across the entire bathtub surface, paying extra attention to stained areas. Let the cleaner sit for at least 5 minutes to break down grime, limescale, stains, soap scum, and kill 99.9% of germs. Don’t rush this step — letting the solution soak is key to lifting stubborn buildup and making scrubbing easier.

Step 3: Scrub the Tub

Use a non-abrasive, soft-bristled scrub brush to thoroughly scrub the tub’s interior, loosening stubborn stains, limescale, soap scum, and mineral deposits. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid dirty water from dripping onto already cleaned areas. 

Focus on corners, around the drain, and any stained or textured spots where dirt tends to cling. Be gentle when handling acrylic or fiberglass tubs to avoid scratching the surface, and ensure every inch receives attention.

Step 4: Rinse the tub

Once you're done scrubbing, rinse the entire bathtub with water (preferably warm). You can use a detachable showerhead, a jug, or a bucket to wash away all cleaning residue. 

Ensure that no cleaning solution or impurities are left behind, as residue can cause new buildup or irritate the skin during baths. Check for any missed spots or lingering stains — a second round of light scrubbing may be needed. 

Step 5: Dry the tub 

Finish by drying the tub with a clean microfiber cloth or towel. This step prevents water spots and mildew growth, especially in corners or textured surfaces. Wipe down the tub’s sides, bottom, and edges, and buff the surface to bring out a natural shine. 

Also, spend a few extra minutes cleaning the bathtub drain. With a new pair of gloves on, use a straightened wire hanger to remove hair, soap scum, debris, and oily or greasy products. Afterward, flush the drain several times with hot water to eliminate any leftover buildup.  

 

FAQs

How often should I clean my bathtub?

Ideally, wipe down your tub after each use with Dettol Multi-Use Wipes to prevent buildup and do a deep clean once a week to remove soap scum, stains, and bacteria.

Why does the bathtub still feel slippery after cleaning?

Slipperiness can result from residue left by cleaning products. Ensure that you rinse thoroughly and dry the tub completely to remove all traces of the product.

How can I keep my bathtub looking fresh for longer between cleanings?

You can keep your bathtub looking clean and fresh by following the steps below: 

• Thoroughly rinse the bathtub to prevent soap and shampoo residue. 
• After each use, wipe the bathtub dry to avoid the buildup of moisture and hard water spots. 
• Always turn on the exhaust fan when showering or bathing. 
• Keep the drain unclogged and clean between uses.