How to Clean Your Bathtub (Without Making It a Whole Saturday Project)

Let’s be honest—bathtubs have a way of collecting soap scum, shampoo drips, and the occasional mystery ring. The good news is it doesn’t take a whole afternoon to get it clean. With a little routine and the right products, you can have your tub looking fresh again in no time.

Step 1: Clear Everything Out
Start by removing all the bottles, soaps, razors, and whatever else is living around the edges of the tub. You’d be surprised how much easier it is to clean when you’re not scrubbing around a small army of shampoo bottles.

Step 2: Give the Tub a Quick Rinse
Use warm water to rinse the tub first. This loosens up surface dirt and soap residue and makes the cleaning products work better.

Step 3: Wipe Down with Mr. Clean
Mix a small amount of Mr. Clean diluted in a bucket of warm water. Using a sponge or soft cloth, wipe down the sides, bottom, and around the fixtures. This step takes care of the everyday dirt and soap film that builds up over time.

Step 4: Tackle Tough Spots with Soft Scrub
For heavier soap scum or stains, apply Soft Scrub to those areas. Use a non-scratch sponge or soft brush and gently scrub in circular motions. Corners, the area around the drain, and where the tub meets the wall are usually where the buildup likes to settle in.

Step 5: Let It Sit if Needed
If a spot is being stubborn, let the Soft Scrub sit for a minute or two. Sometimes grime just needs a moment to realize it’s time to move along.

Step 6: Rinse Everything Well
Rinse the entire tub with warm water to remove the cleaner and loosened grime. Make sure nothing is left behind.

Step 7: Dry for a Nice Finish
Use a clean cloth or towel to wipe down the tub and fixtures. It helps prevent water spots and leaves everything looking polished. A bit of soft scrub on a wet cloth will take away most spots on the stainless steel features.

A Simple Tip for Keeping It Clean
A quick wipe-down once a week with diluted Mr. Clean can keep soap scum from building up and save you from doing a bigger scrub later.

It doesn’t have to be perfect every time—just consistent. A few minutes of regular cleaning can keep your bathtub looking like a place you actually want to relax in, instead of something you’re avoiding looking at.