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Soap scum can be stubborn to remove from an acrylic tub, but there are a few effective methods you can try. First, make a paste using equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the scum and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, scrub the area with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly with water. Another option is to mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the scum, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse. Remember to always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the tub first to ensure it doesn’t damage the acrylic.
Regardless of how often you clean your bathroom, soap scum and hard water stains can make your bathtub look unsightly. While it may be tempting to use harsh chemicals or scrub with all your might, gentle and non-abrasive techniques are essential when it comes to removing soap scum from an acrylic tub. While commercial cleaners may seem like the obvious choice, natural alkaline ingredients are the key to success.
Vinegar and Dish Soap
If you’re dealing with soap scum on your acrylic tub, combine one part Dawn liquid dish soap with three parts white vinegar. Soak paper towels in this mixture and place them directly over the affected area. Let the towels sit for no more than 20 minutes, and if they start to dry out, reapply the solution.
If you’re short on time or want to reduce waste, you can simply spray the solution on the surface and allow it to dry before rinsing the area clean.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and white vinegar are additional ingredients that can be used to remove soap scum from an acrylic tub. Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar to create a paste and apply it to the areas with soap scum. Let the mixture sit for no longer than 20 minutes.
If the soap scum is particularly stubborn, you can leave the paste on overnight. Once you’re ready, wipe away the mixture with a soft sponge and rinse everything off.
Preventing Future Soap Scum Build-Up
Prevention is key when it comes to soap scum. To avoid soap scum, avoid using bar soaps and liquid shower gels containing paraffin, as this ingredient often produces soap scum. If you enjoy taking baths, add four to five cups of white vinegar to your tub from time to time. Fill the tub with warm water and let the vinegar and water sit for 20 minutes or longer.
After emptying the bathtub, rinse it thoroughly. If you’re short on time, you can lightly scrub your tub with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
Additional Tips for Cleaning an Acrylic Tub
When cleaning acrylic tubs, avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads and steel or wool sponges, as these can damage the acrylic material. Instead, opt for non-abrasive cleaning ingredients and microfiber cleaning cloths. If you use clog removers in your bathtub, make sure you rinse the product thoroughly down the drain.
Before using new products on your tub, always test them out in an inconspicuous area. Harsh cleaners can cause cracks and long-term damage. Always check the labels on cleaning products and avoid those that are not recommended for use on acrylic, ABS, polystyrene, or plastic.
Never use solvents such as turpentine, lacquer thinner, paint thinner, and acetone on your acrylic tub. Additionally, avoid using Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner, Scrubbing Bubbles, Tilex Bathroom Cleaner, and other products that can damage plastics.
Non-abrasive cleaners that can be used on an acrylic tub include dishwashing detergents, CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner, Formula 409 All-Purpose Cleaner, Fantastik Multi-Purpose, Scrub Free Bathroom Cleaner, Windex Blue, Clorox Bleach, Glass Plus Glass Cleaner, and Spic and Span Powder.