Acrylic bathtubs are a breeding ground for bacteria. It's important to gently rinse your tub after each use and thoroughly clean it regularly. Fortunately, acrylic is easy to clean due to its non-porous nature.
What You Need to Prepare Before Cleaning the Acrylic Bathtub
There are a few things you need to prepare before you start cleaning. It generally doesn't take long to clean a bathtub from start to finish, but you should still set aside enough time to do a good job. Expect about 30 minutes of cleaning time, and some additional time if you need to let the cleaning products sit on the surface.
You probably already have plenty of tools, as many of them are standard cleaning materials. But if not, it's a good idea to have a shopping list of tools and cleaners ready to go.
We recommend that you have soft sponges and microfiber rags on hand, as you'll need these tools no matter how or why you're cleaning your tub.
Things to Avoid When Cleaning Acrylic Bathtubs
There is definitely a right way and a wrong way to clean an acrylic bathtub. Using the right cleaning products will help prolong the life of your bathtub. In addition, the bathtub will always remain clean and sparkling.
However, if you choose the wrong products, there is a risk of damaging the tub. In this case, you will have to repair or even buy a new acrylic bathtub.
When purchasing a new acrylic bathtub, be sure to read the care instructions that come with the bathtub. It will help you understand how to care for the tub to keep it looking great.
Certain chemicals and cleaning agents may damage the acrylic surface, causing cracks and even property damage. To avoid this, do not use cleaning products whose labels state that they are not for use on acrylic, ABS, polystyrene or plastic. Always check the label of any product before applying it to a surface; it is easier to avoid damage than to try to repair it.
To keep your bathtub in perfect condition, avoid the following items:
Bleach and Ammonia
Bleach is known to be a powerful disinfectant. However, it can damage and discolor your acrylic bathtub. Bleach can seriously damage your skin. Inhaling bleach fumes is also dangerous. Never mix this chemical with other cleaners, as their combination can produce toxic fumes.
A mixture of chlorine bleach and ammonia can even burn your skin. Keep in mind that mixing chemicals is extremely dangerous, especially if you do not have the proper knowledge in this area.
Also, these items can discolor acrylic materials, so if you have a colored acrylic tub, you should not use chlorine bleach. In some cases, you can use powdered oxygen bleach to clean the tub.
Abrasive Cleaners and Tools
Acrylic tubs are loved for their smooth, lightweight design and nonporous surface. While they are not as easily damaged as porcelain or fiberglass tubs, acrylic surfaces are susceptible to scratches.
When cleaning an acrylic tub, avoid using scouring powders, steel wool, brushes, rough cloths and sponges as these materials can scratch the surface.
Hot Water
Extremely hot water will weaken the acrylic surface over time.
How to Clean Your Acrylic Tub
Daily Cleaning
A little attention every day will keep your acrylic bathtub clean. It doesn't take a lot of time or effort, so it's perfect for even the busiest lifestyles. Here's a daily cleaning routine you can easily fit into your schedule:
Rinse After Every Use
After each bath, rinse your tub with warm water. A simple rinse helps wash away soap residue, body oils and any lingering dirt. Doing this after each use prevents dirt from hardening or sticking to the surface, making future cleanings much easier.
Spray Daily Shower Cleaner
For extra protection, use an acrylic-safe daily shower cleaner. After wiping down the tub, give it a quick spray. This helps break down any soap scum or residue that may be left behind, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Check the Drain and Corners
Every few days, take a quick look at the drain and corners of your tub. These areas tend to accumulate hair, soap residue or other debris. A quick rinse or wipe down will prevent buildup and avoid clogging or discoloration.
If you notice that your tub doesn't look as clean as you'd like it to be, it may need a deep cleaning, even if you wash it after every use.
Deep Cleaning
Even with daily cleaning, deep cleaning your acrylic bathtub is still necessary to remove hidden dirt or buildup.
For those who insist on daily cleaning, a monthly deep clean is enough to keep your tub shiny and clean. If you rarely clean or have never had a daily cleaning, try deep cleaning your tub at least every two weeks to prevent stubborn stains and buildup from settling. Here's how to do it:
Start with a Thorough Rinse
Rinse the entire tub with warm water to remove any loose dirt or soap scum that may have built up.
Use Acrylic Safe Cleaner
Spray a generous amount of Acrylic Safe Cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and warm water on the tub. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to break down any dirt or stains that have formed over time.
Scrub Gently with a Soft Sponge
After letting the cleaner sit, gently scrub the tub with a soft sponge or cloth, focusing on areas where dirt or soap scum tends to build up. Avoid using any abrasives, such as dishcloths, as they can scratch the surface.
Pay Attention to Hard-to-Reach Areas
use an old toothbrush or a small soft brush to clean around fixtures, drains, and any corners or edges that may hide dirt.
Rinse Thoroughly
After scrubbing the entire tub, rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove any cleaner residue. Make sure every bit of cleaner is rinsed away to keep the acrylic looking clear and streak-free.
Dry With a Soft Cloth
Use a microfiber cloth to wipe and dry the tub.
It will be easier to perform a deep clean by wiping it down once every time you use the shower.
How to Maintain Your Acrylic Bathtub on a Daily Basis
Since acrylic is a very durable material, taking the time to properly maintain it will help keep your bathtub intact for years to come, which may increase the value of your home. Here are some of our top tips for maintaining your acrylic bathtub and keeping it looking like new.
- Rinse thoroughly after each use and wipe with a soft cloth or sponge
- Regularly check for buildup around drains and fixtures
- Use an everyday, safe acrylic shower cleaner
- Avoid harsh products such as bleach, ammonia or abrasives
- Keep the tub dry when not in use to prevent water damage
- Avoid using hot tools or placing sharp objects on tub surfaces
- Use liquid soap instead of soap to minimize residue
- Use showerhead filters to reduce mineral buildup
- Use a bathroom mat with a non-slip, non-abrasive backing
- Inspect tub caulking and reseal if necessary
- Deep clean once a month if routine maintenance is followed; if not, every two weeks
Incorporate cleaning your acrylic bathtub into your regular bathroom cleaning program, and you'll find that it helps make your bathroom look better.