Four Tricks to Make Your Bathtub Look Like New
Bathtubs endure daily use, leading to wear and tear over time. Soap scum, water stains, and small chips can make a once-beautiful tub look worn out. If you’re looking to refresh your bathtub and bring back its original shine, the four tricks below can help restore its appearance and extend its life. We’ll also cover when it’s time to replace your bathtub and surround enclosure to ensure your bathroom remains in top condition.
1. Remove Tough Stains with Safe, Non-Abrasive Cleaners
First, let’s start with how to clean an old bathtub, with a focus on stained surfaces. Over time, bathtubs can develop stains from hard water, soap scum, or even rust. Removing these stains safely is crucial to maintaining the look of your tub without causing further damage.
- Baking Soda and Dish Soap Paste: Create a paste using equal parts baking soda and a mild dish soap. Apply the paste to the stained areas, gently scrub with a soft sponge, and rinse the tub This method works well for most surfaces, including acrylic, fiberglass, and porcelain, without scratching the finish.
- Hydrogen Peroxide for Deep Stains: For stubborn stains, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda can work wonders. Make a paste and apply it to the stained area, letting it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing. This technique is especially effective for removing soap scum and mildew.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of abrasive powders, bleach, or strong acids, as these can damage the surface of your tub, particularly if it’s made from acrylic or enamel.
By using a non-abrasive cleaning solution, you’ll protect the integrity of your tub while restoring its shine.
2. Repair Minor Chips and Cracks
Small chips or cracks in your bathtub’s surface don’t necessarily mean it’s time for a full replacement. You can often repair these imperfections yourself with repair kits specifically designed for the material of your tub.
- Acrylic and Fiberglass Repair Kits: These kits typically include a filling compound, sandpaper, and a polishing agent. Begin by cleaning the damaged area thoroughly, then apply the filler to the chip or crack. After the filler dries, sand it down smoothly and apply the polish to blend it with the surrounding surface.
- Porcelain and Enamel Repair Kits: For these materials, use a porcelain or enamel repair kit that matches the color of your tub. These kits also include a filler, but they often come with touch-up paint to cover the repair. Once finished, your tub will look much smoother and free from visible damage.
Repairing these minor flaws is a cost-effective way to make your bathtub look like new, without needing professional assistance. However, it should be stressed this is only for minor repairs!
3. Caulk and Reseal
Old, discolored, or cracked caulk around your bathtub can make the entire area look worn out. Recaulking not only improves the look but also helps prevent water damage behind your tub or tiles.
- Remove Old Caulk: Use a utility knife or a specialized caulk removal tool to carefully remove the old caulk. Be sure to clean the area thoroughly to remove any remaining debris or mildew.
- Apply New Caulk: Use a silicone-based caulk that is designed for bathrooms. Apply a smooth, even bead around the edges of your bathtub, and use a caulk smoothing tool or your finger (dipped in water) to press the caulk into the joint. Let it cure for the recommended time before using the tub.
This simple step will freshen up the appearance of your bathtub, giving it a clean, finished look.
4. Polish Metal Fixtures
No matter how clean your tub is, dull or tarnished metal fixtures can detract from its overall appearance. Bringing back the gleam of your faucets, shower head, and handles will make a noticeable difference in your bathroom’s look.
- Vinegar Soak for Shower Heads and Faucets: To remove limescale buildup on metal fixtures, soak them in white vinegar. For fixed shower heads, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around the fixture with a rubber band. Let it soak for a few hours, then rinse and buff dry.
- Polish Chrome with Baking Soda Paste: For chrome fixtures, create a paste with plain water and baking soda. Apply the paste with a soft cloth and gently polish the metal. This method helps remove water spots and buildup without scratching the surface.
- Buff to a Shine: After cleaning, use a microfiber cloth to buff the metal to a shine. This final step will make your bathroom fixtures look like new and complement the refreshed appearance of your bathtub.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Bathtub and Surrounds?
While these tricks can extend the life of your bathtub and improve its appearance, there comes a point when repairs and regular cleaning aren’t enough. Here are some signs it may be time to consider replacing both your bathtub and surrounds:
- Extensive Cracks or Leaks: If you notice deep cracks in either your bathtub or the surrounding walls, it’s a clear sign that replacement is necessary. Cracks can lead to water seeping into the structure behind the tub and walls, causing mold, mildew, and potential structural damage.
- Permanent Stains or Discoloration: Stains that no amount of cleaning can remove—whether on the tub itself or the surrounding walls—are a common sign that your bathroom needs a refresh. Over time, hard water, rust, and other substances can permanently discolor surfaces, making replacement the best option for a clean, modern look.
- Outdated Design or Features: If your bathtub and surrounds are outdated in terms of design or functionality, a replacement can instantly upgrade the look and feel of your bathroom. Modern materials, like high-quality acrylic surrounds, are not only more aesthetically pleasing but also easier to clean and maintain.
- Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself constantly repairing chips, cracks, or leaks in your bathtub or surrounds, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit. Continuous patchwork will only last so long before more serious issues arise.
Upgrade Your Bathroom with American Bath Enterprises, Inc.
When it’s time to replace your old bathtub surrounds, consider upgrading to an easy-to-install three-wall bathtub enclosure from American Bath Enterprises, Inc. Our bathtub surround kits are made from durable, high-quality acrylic that mimics the look of porcelain tile without the hefty price tag or labor-intensive installation process.
The AmeriWall panels are designed for long-lasting performance. With a high-gloss, shiny white finish, they maintain their luster for years with proper maintenance. These panels are easy to install and interlock seamlessly to prevent leaks, ensuring your bathroom stays in top shape.
Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Explore our three-wall bathtub surround kits, or contact us at (888) 228-4925 to learn more about how we can help transform your bathroom into a space you’ll love.