Never Use Bleach To Clean A Fiberglass Tub. Use This Natural Ingredient Instead

Fiberglass bathtubs have many benefits. They look beautiful and tend to be more affordable than acrylic tubs. Plus, they clock in at a lighter weight, which makes them easier to install. But, nothing in life is perfect and there are some notable cons when it comes to fiberglass, too. For instance, these tubs are somewhat high maintenance and can easily become stained by hair products, soap, and bath bombs, among other things. Cleaning fiberglass is a delicate process — abrasive cleaners like bleach and even certain types of sponges can damage the surface, regardless of how gently you proceed. 

Thankfully, natural ingredients like white vinegar and baking soda — used properly — can be just as effective at getting your tub shiny and clean. Using eco-friendly products is one of the easiest ways to clean your bathtub. By going the natural route, you can repurpose ingredients you already have at home and save yourself the trouble of going to the store. Non-toxic alternatives can be just as good as commercial cleaners at removing soap scum, dirt, grime, mold, and hard water buildup. These are the best ways to use these products to clean your fiberglass tub, alongside how to preserve its sparkling condition.

Fiberglass is a type of reinforced plastic material made from thin glass fibers that are heated and woven together. It is very strong yet malleable, making fiberglass a popular choice for building large durable items with curved shapes, such as boats and bathtubs. Resilient as it may be, the surface is highly prone to damage if cleaned with the wrong products. Abrasive scrubbing tools, like coarse brushes and harsh cleaners, can easily scratch fiberglass. Bleach is especially harmful, as it can erode the resin coating.Thankfully, there are plenty of alternative solutions that will get your bathtub sparkling, including a natural ingredient you already have at home: white vinegar. 

Thanks to its acidic composition, vinegar can be a versatile cleaning tool. The acetic nature of vinegar will remove grime, eliminate odors, and add shine to your tub, all without damaging the delicate surface. Create a solution that is one part vinegar and two parts water, and apply it using a spray bottle or with a soaked cloth. Allow up to 20 minutes for the solution to sit before rinsing it thoroughly with clean water. 

Another natural ingredient that is safe to use on your fiberglass bathtub is good old baking soda. This go-to home cleaning product is an alkaline substance that can accomplish many of the same things as vinegar. Make a paste with equal parts baking soda and white vinegar, apply it gently to remove buildup, and rinse it with water.  You can also make the baking soda paste using water instead of vinegar. 

There are many ways to clean your fiberglass tub safely without resorting to harsh chemicals. If your bathtub only requires a quick clean, a soft sponge treatment with mild dish soap will do the trick. Allow the soap to absorb for up to one hour and then wipe it clean and rinse. Alternatively, lemon is a natural antibacterial, so you can combine it with water (two parts lemon juice to one part water) and use it as a simple non-toxic cleaner. Fiberglass can also be cleaned safely with hydrogen peroxide. Remember to use a microfiber cloth or soft sponge to avoid scratches and soak it in a solution that is equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, applying it with circular motions. 

To protect your tub from stains and soap scum buildup, consider polishing it with wax. Protector polish designed for fiberglass bathtubs can be found on Amazon for around $20. Wax polish will not only preserve the longevity of your fiberglass, but also give it a shiny finish. As an extra tip, clean your tub immediately after it has been used, as the heat and steam will loosen the grime and make it easier to wipe off.