Cleaning the bath
Nothing beats relaxing in a hot bath after a hard day. However, the attraction soon wanes if we’re confronted with unsightly stains and limescale in the bathtub. From hard water to residue from bath products and skin lipids.... depending on the material, an unsightly layer of dirt can quickly form in the bathtub.
Here, we explain how to clean your bath quickly, gently and effortlessly.
Natural cleaning agents and household remedies to clean the bath
You don’t always need to use chemicals or buy special cleaning products: natural substances and gentle household products can also restore your bathtub’s shine. Natural cleaning agents sometimes need to be left for a little longer to work, but they are generally more eco-friendly and less harmful to groundwater than aggressive cleaning products. This is also a way of preventing additional plastic waste.
Many cleaning products contain bleach, preservatives and fragrances which can cause health issues.
Household remedies for cleaning the bath
Before you clean your bath, take a look around your home.
Effective solutions commonly found in every household include:
Baking powder
Most kitchen cupboards contain a few packets of baking powder. This leavening agent is made from natron, which is excellent for removing limescale and cleaning grouting. To tackle stubborn marks, mix some baking powder with vinegar or citric acid and leave the mixture to work overnight.
Vinegar
White household vinegar with an acidity level of five per cent is a great all-rounder and ideal for cleaning a bath. Vinegar essence should be diluted before use on sensitive materials. A mixture of baking powder and vinegar is also ideal for removing rust stains on the drain: apply, leave to work for a short time and then rinse off.
Citric acid
Citric acid is another excellent product for descaling. Add two to three tablespoons of citric acid powder to one litre of lukewarm water. Alternatively, cut a lemon in half and rub it repeatedly over the stains.
Sodium carbonate
Household sodium carbonate is another great solution for cleaning the bath, and is also excellent for unblocking drains.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk is something of a secret weapon in grandma’s bag of tricks! When mixed with vinegar, it makes a very effective bath cleaner. It can also be applied on its own to polish the bathtub after cleaning. Leave it to work for around half an hour and then rinse off. This environmentally friendly solution will leave your bathtub gleaming and naturally sealed.
Laundry detergent
Buttermilk is something of a secret weapon in grandma’s bag of tricks! When mixed with vinegar, it makes a very effective bath cleaner. It can also be applied on its own to polish the bathtub after cleaning. Leave it to work for around half an hour and then rinse off. This environmentally friendly solution will leave your bathtub gleaming and naturally sealed.
Washing-up liquid
Everyday washing-up liquid and even shampoo can also be used to clean the bath.
Soft soap
Biodegradable soft soap is a gentle solution ideal for cleaning a lightly soiled bathtub.
Cleaning the bath properly
In general: acrid, undiluted cleaning agents, abrasive sponges, scouring creams and powders are not suitable for cleaning a bath. These products can damage sensitive surfaces. Although the damage is not always apparent at first glance, this will result in a faster buildup of residue and bacteria in the future.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any cleaning products you purchase. If you are not sure whether the product is suitable, test it on a less visible area of the bath first.
The best way to clean a bath largely depends on its type and material.
Here are the most important tips for the different types of bath:
How can you remove yellow stains in the bathtub?
An unsightly yellow veil can appear on the bathtub, usually caused by residue from skin oil and bath products. Essential oils, for example, often leave an oily film in the bath.
A mixture of vinegar and salt, blended into a paste and applied to the yellow stains, will help. It should ideally be left to work overnight.You can then rinse the mixture off with lots of clean water the next day.
To stop these yellow stains appearing in the first place, always rinse the bath thoroughly and dry it after use.