How to Clean a Bathtub with Tough Stains

Remove tough bathtub stains using a paste of baking soda and dish soap, letting it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive sponge and rinsing thoroughly.

1. Clear the Tub First. Remove all bottles, toys, and bath accessories from the tub. Rinse the entire surface with hot water to remove loose dirt and soap residue. This initial rinse helps you see exactly what stains you're dealing with and prevents cleaning products from mixing with leftover soap.
2. Mix Your Stain Fighter. Mix equal parts baking soda and liquid dish soap in a bowl to create a thick paste. For extra cleaning power on mineral deposits, add a few tablespoons of white vinegar. The paste should be spreadable but not runny. This combination cuts through soap scum, hard water stains, and general grime without scratching your tub's surface.
3. Target Problem Spots. Spread the cleaning paste generously over all stained areas, paying special attention to the waterline, corners, and around the drain where buildup is typically worst. Use a damp sponge or your hands to work the paste into textured surfaces and grout lines. Don't worry about covering every inch - focus on the problem areas.
4. Let Chemistry Work. Allow the cleaning paste to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. This dwell time lets the baking soda break down mineral deposits and soap scum while the dish soap loosens greasy residue. For extremely stubborn stains, you can let it sit for up to 30 minutes, but don't let it completely dry out.
5. Attack the Stains. Using a non-abrasive sponge or soft-bristled brush, scrub the stained areas in circular motions. Apply firm pressure but avoid anything that could scratch the tub surface like steel wool or abrasive cleaners. For textured tubs, use an old toothbrush to work into grooves and patterns where stains hide.
6. Check Your Progress. Rinse the entire tub thoroughly with hot water, making sure to remove all cleaning paste residue. Check for any remaining stains. Most should be gone after the first treatment. If you still see problem areas, repeat the paste application and scrubbing process on those specific spots.
7. Seal the Shine. Give the tub one final rinse with clean water and wipe down with a clean cloth or paper towels. This removes any lingering cleaning residue and prevents water spots from forming. For the best results, squeegee or towel-dry the surfaces to reveal your clean, stain-free bathtub.