Last Updated on October 16, 2023
Maintaining the quality and appearance of your refinished tub requires regular cleaning. However, you must wash a refinished tub with special care to prevent damaging or scratching the refinished surface.
To clean your refinished tub, gather your necessary materials, including a non-abrasive cleaner, soft sponge or cloth, and gloves to protect your hands. Then rinse the tub with lukewarm water, apply the cleaner evenly across the surface, and let it sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing away any dirt or grime.
The purpose of this article is to provide you with guidance for cleaning a refinished tub step-by-step. With our steps, you can keep your refinished bathtub in excellent condition for years. So keep reading for detailed information.
How to Clean a Refinished Tub: DIY Steps to Follow
When cleaning a refinished tub, following the proper steps is crucial for maintaining its appearance and longevity. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Step 1: Gather your materials
- Step 2: Rinse the refinished bathtub
- Step 3: Apply the cleaner
- Step 4: Allow the cleaner to sit
- Step 5: Scrub without abrasives
- Step 6: Thoroughly rinse the refinished tub
- Step 7: Dry the tub properly
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin with, be sure that all the necessary materials are available for cleaning your refinished tub. You will need a non-abrasive cleaner (like Scrubbing Bubbles, Formula 409 without bleach, or Lysol Basin Tub and Tile Cleaner). These cleaners are designed to be gentle on refinished surfaces.
Also, grab a soft liquid dish soap such as Dawn, Palmolive, or Ajax dish soap. This will help break down any grease or residue on the surface of your tub.
You’ll need a soft-bristle nylon brush, a sponge, or a microfiber cloth to apply the cleaners. These tools will allow you to scrub away stains without scratching the refinished surface.
Step 2: Rinse the Refinished Bathtub
Ensure you thoroughly rinse all areas of your bathtub with warm water to remove any hair or excess residue. This is crucial for maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your refinished tub.
Begin by filling a container with warm water and pouring it over the entire surface of the bathtub. Use a sponge or soft cloth to scrub any stubborn stains or grime that may be present. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas such as corners and edges. Rinse the sponge or cloth frequently to ensure that you are not spreading dirt around.
Step 3: Apply the Cleaner
Once you’ve finished rinsing the bathtub, grab your chosen non-abrasive cleaner and apply it. Liberally splash the cleaner on all tub surfaces, covering every area. Take care to spray or spread the cleaner evenly for maximum effectiveness. If you use dish soap as a cleaner, use a sponge to spread it on.
The non-abrasive nature of these cleaners will help preserve the finish on your refinished tub while effectively removing any dirt or grime buildup.
Step 4: Allow the Cleaner to Sit
Now, you can let the cleaner sit on the surface of your bathtub for about 5 minutes. This allows the cleaner to effectively break down any remaining soap residue and oils that may have accumulated over time.
During this time, disinfectant cleaners also properly disinfect the tub, ensuring a clean and hygienic bathing environment. Allowing the cleaner to sit gives it ample time to penetrate and work its magic on stubborn stains and grime.
Step 5: Scrub Without Abrasives
Scrub the entire bathtub surface using a standard cellulose sponge, microfiber cloth, or soft-bristle nylon brush. These materials are gentle enough to avoid damaging a refinished tub’s finish while effectively removing dirt and grime.
Refusing sponges with abrasive layers or rough materials like steel wool is important, as these can scratch and mar the surface. Similarly, abrasive cleaners should be avoided as they can also cause damage.
When scrubbing, apply even pressure and use circular motions to cover all areas of the tub. Pay special attention to any stubborn stains or buildup, applying more pressure if necessary.
Step 6: Thoroughly Rinse the Refinished Tub
After scrubbing, rinse the bathtub thoroughly after using dish soap to ensure a safe and slip-free surface. Dish soap is effective in cleaning refinished tubs but can leave behind a residue that makes the surface dangerously slippery.
To avoid any accidents, take the time to rinse the tub completely with warm water. Use a handheld showerhead or a bucket to cover every tub corner. Pay close attention to areas where soap may have accumulated, such as around the drain or the tub’s sides. Take your time and be thorough in your rinsing process.
Step 7: Dry the Tub Properly
Once you have rinsed the bathtub, dry it properly by gently wiping away the water droplets with a soft towel or cloth. Drying it promptly prevents any lingering moisture from seeping into the surface and causing potential damage over time.
A soft towel or cloth is recommended to avoid scratching or scuffing the tub’s finish. Take your time and ensure that all areas are thoroughly dried, paying extra attention to corners and hard-to-reach spots.
Once the tub is dry, you can take it further by buffing the finish lightly with a clean cloth. This will restore its shine and keep it looking new for longer between cleanings.
What to Avoid When Cleaning a Refinished Tub?
When cleaning your refinished tub, there are some cleaners you need to avoid:
1. Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Agents and Materials
Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners, rough sponges, or abrasive cleaning tools when cleaning your refinished tub. These products can cause irreparable harm to the delicate layers of paint that make up the tub’s coating.
Also, avoid using Scotch-Brite heavy-duty pads, steel wool pads, or any cleaning tools with abrasive layers, as they can scratch or nick the tub’s surface.
2. Steam Cleaning the Refinished Tub
Using steam cleaners with scrubbing attachments on a reglazed tub can damage the finish coat, especially if it seeps underneath the covering or penetrates cracks. The high heat and moisture from the steam can compromise the integrity of the coating, leading to peeling or discoloration over time.
3. Power Washing the Refinished Tub
Power washing can cause damage to the delicate coating of a refinished bathtub, leading to peeling or cracking. You should avoid using power washers on your refinished tub as the force can erode the protective layer.
The high-pressure and abrasive nature of power washing is simply too aggressive for the surface of a refinished tub.
4. Bath Mats and Appliques with Suction Cups
To protect the delicate coating, avoiding bath mats or coverings with suction cups is best. While these may provide added safety and prevent slips, they can also cause damage to the surface of your tub. Suction cups create a strong grip that can peel off the coating or leave unsightly marks behind.
Easy Cleaning Steps for Homeowners to Keep Your Refinished Tub Looking Great
Keeping a refinished tub looking fresh and clean is essential for any homeowner who wants to maintain the quality of their bathroom. Cleaning a refinished tub can be effortless and straightforward with the right tools and techniques.
By following the DIY steps outlined above, you can effectively clean your refinished tub without causing any damage. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that may scratch the surface and opt for gentle cleaning products instead.
With regular maintenance and gentle cleaning techniques, your refinished tub will shine for years.