My bathtub could be the poster child for “ring around the bathtub”. My little boys like to take a bath in my tub because it is extra deep and they love to practice their swimming moves at bath time. Then we let the water out, leaving a line of dirt and grime all the way around the tub. It builds up fast and usually requires a lot of scrubbing on my part to remove. Until I found this miracle homemade tub and shower cleaner recipe.
This 2-ingredient tub cleaner recipe has been “out there” for awhile, and I finally got around to trying it (back in June) and am finally getting around to sharing it with you – I actually have lots of new cleaning tips and even a homemade laundry detergent recipe I will be posting here soon.
Updated 2019: This homemade tub and shower cleaner is still my favorite way to clean the grime off my bathtubs.
You are going to love this tub/shower cleaner though. I promise. It easily cuts through layers upon layers of grimy film and leaves your tub and shower sparkling clean. The best part is how easy it is to make with non-toxic grocery store ingredients. Stuff you probably already have right now at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
White Vinegar: Known for its cleaning and disinfecting properties, white vinegar is a staple in many DIY cleaning recipes.
Dish Soap: Use a mild, grease-cutting dish soap. This will help remove soap scum and body oils.
Baking Soda: This versatile ingredient acts as a gentle abrasive, helping to scrub away stains and buildup.
An Empty Spray Bottle: A reusable spray bottle is eco-friendly and convenient for applying the cleaner.
DIY Shower and Tub Cleaner Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare Your Spray Bottle
Start by thoroughly cleaning and rinsing an empty spray bottle. It’s essential to use a clean bottle to prevent any residue or contaminants from affecting your homemade cleaner.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In your empty spray bottle, combine the following ingredients:
1 cup of white vinegar
1/4 cup of dish soap
1/4 cup of baking soda
Step 3: Mix Well
Screw the spray bottle’s cap back on and gently shake the mixture to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. The baking soda might fizz initially, but this is normal.
Step 4: Application and Cleaning
Here’s how to use your DIY shower and tub cleaner effectively:
Prep the Area: Before applying the cleaner, rinse the shower or tub with warm water to remove loose dirt and soap residue.
Spray the Cleaner: Liberally spray the homemade cleaner onto the surface you want to clean. Ensure that it covers areas with soap scum, stains, or buildup.
Let It Sit: Allow the cleaner to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This dwell time allows the ingredients to work their magic and break down grime.
Scrub: Using a scrub brush or sponge, gently scrub the surface in a circular motion. The baking soda will provide mild abrasiveness to help remove stains and buildup. Focus on trouble spots.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the entire area with warm water to remove the cleaner and any loosened debris. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to prevent any slippery residue.
Dry and Admire: After rinsing, dry the area with a clean, dry cloth or towel. Step back and admire your sparkling clean shower or tub!
Additional Tips:
For stubborn stains or grout discoloration, you can make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste, let it sit for a few minutes, and scrub it away.
This DIY cleaner is suitable for most types of shower and tub surfaces, including fiberglass, acrylic, porcelain, and tile. However, always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility.
To maintain a cleaner bathroom, consider wiping down surfaces after each use to prevent the buildup of soap scum and mineral deposits.
By making your own DIY shower and tub cleaner, you not only save money but also reduce your exposure to harsh chemicals. Plus, it’s an effective and eco-friendly way to keep your bathroom looking its best. So, roll up your sleeves, mix up a batch, and enjoy a sparkling-clean bathroom!
