Bathtubs are hot spots for stains and grime. It’s spring. And now is a great time to tackle that bathtub project.
Maybe you are thinking of selling your mobile home, and want the bathroom and bathtub to look as clean as possible. Or, maybe you just want a fresh clean look. Either way, here are some tips and tricks you can use to get your bathtub looking its best:
Natural Remedies for Cleaning Bathtubs
Harsh chemicals can wreak havoc on your lungs in small enclosed spaces, like bathrooms. In addition, abrasive cleaners can damage finishes or cause the color to fade.
If you are looking for green alternatives or something that isn’t quite as hard on your lungs, a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and warm water is a great place to start. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spray down your bathtub. Wait 10 to 15 minutes and then wipe dry. For more stubborn spots and stains, another great bathroom product is good, old-fashioned baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on the stained spots, spray with your vinegar solution and let soak. Giving it time to set allows the mixture to really go to work. Rinse and wipe dry.
Another option for fiberglass bathtubs, which are common in mobile homes, is to use dishwashing liquids. These are non-abrasive and are great for cutting through bath scum and deposits left in the bathtub.
Many mobile homes have Garden Tubs – which are larger bathtubs with jacuzzi jets. For these, you should check with the manufacturer on their recommendations for cleaning the jets.
However, here are 4 simple steps to get you started:
- Fill the tub over the jets with hot water
- Add a cup of vinegar and run the jets
- Let the jets run on high for 10 to 15 minutes
- Drain. And clean the tub
You may need to repeat this process several times to get all the gunk out. You also can clean the jets directly with a small brush or old toothbrush, which will help keep them clean.
Bathtub Repairs, Going Beyond Cleaning
If your bathtub is damaged, replacing it can be difficult. Some homeowners might be able to tackle this project themselves, while others will want to call in a pro. Be sure and look for specific mobile home parts and suppliers, since sizing can be an issue. Mobile Home Repair has some good tips on their website if you are thinking about taking on this kind of project.
Keeping Bathtubs Looking Great – Prevention is Key
Once you have done all the hard work of cleaning the tub, you will want to keep it that way. The best tip is to completely wipe down the tub after each use. That will help prevent stains and mildew from building up. Also, make sure to remove bath products and bath mats – trapped water can cause rust and mildew stains in your bathtub. Wipe down the jets after use to also keep them from filling with grime.
Bathtubs and bathrooms can be tricky spots to keep clean, so once you have done all this hard work, take a nice long soak – you deserve it!
