It’s generally a good idea to start with the gentlest cleaning solution available to you and work your way up to more powerful options if that doesn’t work.
Lemon juice makes a fine alternative to vinegar if you happen to have some in the refrigerator.
Make sure you give the vinegar ample time to begin working. For especially troublesome spots, sprinkle a little baking soda onto the vinegar as it soaks. [4] X Research source
You can also use specialty scrubbing tools, like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, which are made from porous melamine foam for added stain-fighting power. [6] X Research source
Most bathtub stains are the result of germs that create a filmy residue as they accumulate. Leave the shower curtain drawn and switch on the overhead fan so that the tub receives steady airflow.
There will come a point when simply adding more and more vinegar won’t suffice.
Only buy cleaners that have been approved for use on enamel-coated bathroom surfaces. Be sure to check the label carefully before buying a particular cleaning product so you’ll know you’re getting what you need. If possible, open a nearby window, open the door, and turn on a fan to ventilate the bathroom while you clean with any of these products.
If you’re having trouble tracking down Castile soap, hydrogen peroxide will make an acceptable substitute. Essential oils like tea tree and peppermint can also act as natural disinfectants. [9] X Research source
The longer you let the solution sit, the more effective it will be at lifting long-settled residue. Wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when handling chemical cleaning solutions.
If necessary, apply another burst of cleaning solution. Wipe and repeat until the stains come out of the enamel finish. Using anything more abrasive than a sponge to scrub enamel may wear down the finish.
Powdered cleansers contain chemicals known as surfactants which have mild abrasive properties. This makes them much more effective for addressing hardened, stuck-on residue. [12] X Research source Apply abrasive cleansers sparingly. For most jobs, a single canister be enough for a single thorough cleaning. [13] X Research source
Homemade concoctions like hydrogen peroxide and cream of tartar will be preferable for those who are wary of the health and environmental effects of chemical cleaning products. Hydrogen peroxide will also help treat age-related discoloration and lighten the finish of the tub. [15] X Research source
Be sure to cover the bottom of the tub, where accumulated mold can become a slipping hazard.
You can also wet a clean sponge or washcloth and use it to rub in the cleaner until it thickens. [18] X Research source Another option is to wet the tub before you apply the cleanser. Spray the tub with the shower head or fill a cup with water and pour it around the inside of the tub. Be careful not to add an excessive amount of water. The cleaner won’t be as effective if it’s too thin.
If you don’t own a dedicated scrubbing brush, you can use the rough green side of a kitchen sponge. Never use steel wool or any similar material to scour a porcelain tub. Even though porcelain is scratch-resistant, this can be enough to cause permanent damage to the finish. [20] X Research source
