Can You Really Bleach A Bathtub? Here’s What Experts Say

Yes, you can bleach a bathtub to remove stains, disinfect, and brighten its surface. However, it’s crucial to use bleach safely and effectively to avoid damage to your bathtub or health.

Materials You’ll Need

• Bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite solution)
• Water
• Rubber gloves
• Eye protection
• Bucket or large container
• Sponge or soft cloth

Safety Precautions

• Always wear rubber gloves and eye protection when handling bleach.
• Ventilate the bathroom well by opening windows or turning on the fan.
• Never mix bleach with other cleaning products, especially ammonia.
• Avoid prolonged contact with bleach as it can cause skin irritation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bleach Solution: Mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water in a bucket or large container.
2. Wet the Bathtub: Rinse the bathtub with warm water to remove any debris.
3. Apply the Bleach Solution: Using a sponge or soft cloth, apply the bleach solution to the bathtub surface.
4. Let It Sit: Allow the bleach solution to sit for 15-30 minutes. For stubborn stains, you may need to let it sit longer.
5. Scrub: Use a sponge or soft cloth to gently scrub the bathtub surface, paying attention to areas with stains.
6. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the bathtub thoroughly with cold water until all bleach residue is removed.

Additional Tips

• Test a small area of the bathtub first to ensure it won’t damage the surface.
• Use a bleach pen or spray for small stains or hard-to-reach areas.
• For heavy stains, you may need to repeat the process or use a commercial bathtub cleaner.
• Avoid using bleach on colored bathtubs or bathtubs made of natural stone.

Cleaning Different Bathtub Materials

• Porcelain or Ceramic: Bleach is safe to use on porcelain and ceramic bathtubs.
• Acrylic: Bleach can damage acrylic bathtubs. Use a mild bathroom cleaner instead.
• Fiberglass: Bleach can weaken fiberglass bathtubs. Use a non-abrasive cleaner.
• Natural Stone: Bleach can etch natural stone surfaces. Avoid using bleach on marble, travertine, or slate bathtubs.

When to Avoid Using Bleach

• If your bathtub has colored surfaces or patterns.
• If your bathtub is made of natural stone.
• If you have sensitive skin or respiratory issues.
• If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Wrapping Up: The Dos and Don’ts of Bleaching Your Bathtub

Dos:

• Wear protective gear.
• Ventilate the bathroom.
• Dilute bleach properly.
• Test the bleach solution first.
• Rinse thoroughly.

Don’ts:

• Mix bleach with other cleaning products.
• Use bleach on colored or natural stone bathtubs.
• Bleach for extended periods.
• Ignore safety precautions.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use bleach to clean my shower curtain?
A: No, bleach can damage the fabric of shower curtains. Use a mild laundry detergent instead.

Q: How often should I bleach my bathtub?
A: Once a month or as needed to remove stains and disinfect.

Q: What are some alternatives to bleach for bathtub cleaning?
A: Baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and commercial bathtub cleaners.