How To Get Rid Of Bathtub Stains

Bathtub stains can be a real eyesore, but they don't have to be permanent. With a little elbow grease and the right cleaning products, you can remove even the most stubborn stains from your bathtub. This article will provide some tips for removing bathtub stains, including the best cleaning products and techniques to use.

Identify the Type of Stain

The first step to removing a bathtub stain is to identify the type of stain. There are three main types of bathtub stains:

Mineral deposits: These stains are caused by hard water minerals, such as calcium and lime. They can be white, gray, or brown in color and are often found around the drain and faucet.
Rust stains: These stains are caused by iron in the water. They are typically orange or brown in color and can be found anywhere in the bathtub.
Mold and mildew stains: These stains are caused by mold and mildew spores. They are typically black or green in color and can be found anywhere in the bathtub, but especially in areas where there is moisture.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products and Tools

Once you have identified the type of stain, you can choose the right cleaning products and tools to remove it. For mineral deposits, you will need a commercial cleaner that contains an acid, such as hydrochloric acid or muriatic acid. For rust stains, you will need a commercial cleaner that contains a rust remover, such as oxalic acid or phosphoric acid. For mold and mildew stains, you will need a commercial cleaner that contains a bleach, such as chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide.

In addition to a commercial cleaner, you will also need some basic cleaning tools, such as a sponge, brush, and bucket. You may also want to wear gloves to protect your hands from the chemicals in the cleaning products.

Clean the Bathtub

To clean the bathtub, follow these steps:

Apply the cleaning solution to the stain. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label.
Let the cleaning solution sit on the stain for the amount of time specified on the product label.
Scrub the stain with a sponge or brush. Be sure to use a soft brush to avoid scratching the bathtub.
Rinse the bathtub thoroughly with water.
Repeat the cleaning process if necessary.

Prevent Bathtub Stains

Once you have removed the stains from your bathtub, you can take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are a few tips:

Clean your bathtub regularly. This will help to remove any dirt and grime that could cause stains.
Use a shower curtain or liner. This will help to keep water from splashing onto the bathtub and causing stains.
Wipe down the bathtub after each use. This will help to remove any residue that could cause stains.
Install a water softener. This will help to remove the minerals from the water and prevent them from staining the bathtub.