What Is the Best Way to Clean a Bathtub?

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Bathtub Surfaces Safely

1. Choose the right bathroom cleaning supplies

Start by gathering your essentials:

• Non-abrasive sponge or microfiber cloth
• Baking soda or a gentle cleanser
• White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
• Dish soap
• Spray bottle
• Bucket of warm water
• Old toothbrush or scrub brush

Avoid bleach or harsh chemical cleaners unless your tub material explicitly allows it. Not sure what kind of tub you have? Your local Molly Maid^® team can provide expert advice.

2. Rinse and prep the tub

Before applying any cleaner, rinse the bathtub with warm water to loosen debris. Remove toys, shampoo bottles, soap dishes, or bathmats to avoid cross-contamination and ensure full access to all surfaces.

3. Apply the cleaning solution

For most tubs, this simple DIY solution works wonders:

1. Mix equal parts dish soap and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of baking soda for extra grit.
3. Spray generously across the entire tub, walls and basin included.
4. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to cut through buildup.

4. Scrub strategically

Use your non-abrasive sponge to scrub in circular motions, starting at the top and working down. For tricky corners or grout lines, a toothbrush works great.

Be gentle on fiberglass or acrylic tubs—abrasive scrubbing can cause micro-scratches that trap grime.

5. Rinse thoroughly and dry

Rinse the tub with warm water and wipe down surfaces with a clean microfiber cloth. This helps prevent water spots and keeps your tub looking fresh longer.

Bonus: Unclog the bathtub drain while you’re at it

Bathtub drains can clog over time with hair, soap residue, and dirt. To unclog the bathtub drain naturally, try this method:

1. Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
2. Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar.
3. Cover the drain and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
4. Rinse with a pot of boiling water.

Cleaning Tips for Every Type of Tub

Not all tubs are created equal! Here’s how to clean tub surfaces based on material:

Acrylic

Use only non-abrasive products and soft cloths. Avoid citrus-based cleaners or products containing acetone.

Porcelain-enameled steel

Gentle abrasives (like baking soda) are okay. Use gloves with grip to avoid dropping heavy items while cleaning, as chipping is common.

Cast iron with enamel coating

These tubs are tough, but the enamel can still be scratched. Use pH-neutral products and non-abrasive cloths.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass tubs are extremely sensitive. Stick to dish soap and a soft sponge, and avoid hard scrubbing.

Don't Forget These Often-Missed Areas

Even after you clean bathtub surfaces, a few spots may still harbor grime:

• Behind faucet handles
• Overflow drain cover
• Caulking and grout lines
• Showerhead and shower glass

For help with these areas, check out our guides on how to clean a showerhead and how to clean shower glass.

When to Call in the Pros

Sometimes, a scrub isn’t enough—especially if:

• You’re short on time,
• Your tub has layers of grime, discoloration, or mildew,
• You’re hosting guests or prepping a rental, or
• You want to sanitize without damaging delicate surfaces.

In these cases, calling a professional cleaning team makes sense. Molly Maid offers one-time cleanings or regular cleaning services that include thorough bathroom attention.

Let Molly Maid Help You Love Your Bathroom Again

Cleaning the bathtub doesn’t have to be a task you dread. But if you’d rather spend that time relaxing with friends or family, your local Molly Maid team is here to help.

Molly Maid cleaning professionals bring their own bathroom cleaning supplies, follow a proven 44-point checklist, and tailor every service to your needs. Plus, all services are backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise^® to ensure your satisfaction.

Whether you need a one-time deep clean, occasional cleaning, or regular upkeep, we’ve got you covered. Visit our bathroom cleaning tips hub for more helpful guides, or find the Molly Maid location near you to request a personalized quote.