How to Remove Bathtub Rings and Stop Them from Coming Back
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Unsightly or stubborn stains can make our tub feel and look dirty even after it has just been cleaned. If you feel like you’ve scrubbed endlessly at the stain rings in your bathtub without success, it might be time to try a new method.
To help you make your bathtub sparkle, experts are sharing their best tricks to remove pesky rings and stains. Plus, discover how to prevent them from returning—for good. Here’s everything you need to know about scrubbing your tub.
What Causes Bathtub Rings?
Despite regular cleaning, a light outline around the inside of your bathtub can still appear and be tough to remove. According to Vanesa Amaro, TikTok’s “Queen of Cleaning” and Clorox spokesperson, bathtub rings or stains are typically a combination of soap, scum, body oils, dirt, and mineral deposits from hard water.
“When water evaporates, it leaves behind a residue that can cling to the surface of a bathtub,” Amaro says. “Body care containers or even a forgotten bobby pin can also leave rings and rust marks behind. Regularly cleaning your tub can help reduce stains and rings.”
Do not use abrasive tools on your bathtub (especially on acrylic, porcelain, or fiberglass) to prevent damage like scratches or chips.
Grant Webster
How to Remove Bathtub Rings Using Commercial Cleaners
Remove hard water, mold, and mildew rings or stains with commercial cleaning products that are either multi-surface or meant for the bathtub specifically. Always read the product’s instructions before using it.
Clear out the tub: Remove all shampoos, soaps, and other products from the bathtub to remove clutter from the space. This prevents any of the cleaners from getting on your bath products and you can now thoroughly clean all of the surfaces otherwise covered by them.
Spray cleaning product: Amaro suggests spraying your choice of cleaning product 4-6 inches away from the tub, especially on the stained areas. Let the product sit for at least 30 seconds.
Scrub, rinse, and dry: Gently scrub the area with a non-abrasive sponge before rinsing. Repeat if necessary. Dry the bathtub with a paper towel or microfiber towel to prevent water spots or streaks.
How to Remove Bathtub Rings Using Bleach
Bleach will not only clean your bathtub but also disinfect it, Amaro says. Be cautious when handling household bleach for cleaning purposes—wear rubber gloves, a mask, and eye protectors. Never mix bleach with any other household cleaners and always follow the product’s instructions.
Do not use bleach on acrylic or colored bathtubs, as it can damage the coating and finish.
Clear out the tub: Keep all of your bathing products safe from bleach by removing them all before you clean.
Mix bleach solution: Mix a bleach solution with ⅓ cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water and put it into an empty spray bottle.
Spray and let it sit: Spray the bleach and water solution directly on the tub, and let it soak for at least 6 minutes for complete disinfection.
Scrub, rinse, and let dry: Scrub the stained area of the bathtub with a non-abrasive sponge or microfiber towel. Rinse the bleach solution thoroughly with warm water and use a microfiber towel to dry the bathtub completely.
How to Remove Bathtub Rings Using Natural Ingredients
Natural ingredients, like baking soda, white vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide can remove stains just as well as commercial cleaners. They can also provide a more affordable cleaning option and might already be in your pantry.
Clear out the tub: Just like with other methods, remove all products from the bathtub so you have a clear space to clean and to protect your products.
Mix and apply cleaning paste: Mix three parts baking soda to one part white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for a homemade and effective cleaning paste. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for as long as 30 minutes.
Scrub and rinse: Use a non-abrasive sponge to scrub the paste into the stained areas to remove the rings. Thoroughly rinse away the paste before drying with a microfiber towel.
Soak in vinegar (optional): If the stains are still persistent, fill the tub with hot water, add 3-5 cups of white vinegar, and let the solution soak for multiple hours. The vinegar can help break down the residual stains and soap scum. Drain and rinse the tub before completely drying with a microfiber towel.
How to Prevent Bathtub Rings from Reappearing
After all this work, you don’t want to have to scrub away stubborn stains again. Amaro recommends staying on top of a frequent and consistent cleaning schedule to prevent the rings from returning.
“The more often you clean, the easier it is to keep your bathtub free of spots, rings, and stains. I typically recommend cleaning high-traffic areas like the bathroom, including your bathtub, about once a week,” Amaro says. “Even if you’re not using your bathtub often, I recommend at least spraying it down with cleaner and rinsing out the tub.”
