Experienced homemakers have provided a guide for effectively cleaning and whitening various types of bathtubs based on their materials, using both commercial cleaning products and "folk methods."
How to clean and whiten cast iron or steel bathtubs:
Cast iron and steel bathtubs should be rinsed and wiped with a sponge after each use. Conduct a thorough cleaning once a week using the following methods:
Mix grated laundry soap with baking soda and a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply it to stains, leave it for 15 minutes, scrub, and rinse thoroughly.
To remove stubborn rust, mix hydrogen peroxide and ammonia in equal parts, apply it to the stained areas, and let it sit for 30 minutes or longer for older stains. Scrub with a sponge and rinse with water.
Combine 40 ml of turpentine with 100 g of table salt, apply it to the stained areas, gently scrub, leave for 20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Dissolve citric acid in water, spray it on the bathtub surface, leave it for an hour, and then rinse. Vinegar can be used instead of citric acid for a similar effect.
Also, fill the tub with water, add 500 ml of bleach, and leave it for a few hours. Drain the water, wipe the surface, and rinse thoroughly. Note that this method produces bleach vapors, so ensure that the bathroom is well-ventilated.
How to clean and whiten an enamel bathtub:
These should be cleaned with non-abrasive products to protect the enamel. Avoid acidic solutions as they can damage the surface.
Mix baking soda with water to form a thick paste. Spread it over the entire surface, scrub thoroughly, and rinse.
Apply the powder to dirty areas, leave it for about 10 minutes, scrub, and rinse. Be cautious when using powder on abrasive stains to avoid scratching the enamel.
How to clean and whiten an acrylic bathtub:
These surfaces are sensitive, so avoid abrasive cleaners or materials that can damage the finish. Use the following gentle methods:
Sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the damp surface of the tub, leave it for 20 minutes, then apply vinegar on top. Leave it for another 30–40 minutes and rinse.
Soak a white cloth in vinegar, place it on rusty or lime-coated areas, leave it for 30 minutes, and rinse with water.
Alternatively, dissolve citric acid in water, apply it to problem areas, leave for 10–15 minutes, and then rinse.
Fill the tub with warm water, add either a packet of citric acid or 1.5 liters of vinegar, and leave it overnight (no more than 12 hours). Drain in the morning and rinse thoroughly with clean water.
By using these various methods, you can restore your bathtub to a clean, fresh condition while considering the specific needs of the material.