Since the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), bathroom safety has become a priority for many homeowners. To reduce the risk of slips and falls, bathtubs with textured bottoms are highly favored for their excellent anti-slip performance. However, over time, the grooves and crevices in these designs tend to accumulate foot oils and grime. Due to the dirt embedding itself into the textures, traditional cleaning methods are often ineffective and may even exacerbate the issue.
To help you easily tackle this problem, Giving Tree Home has put together an efficient cleaning solution that will restore your bathtub to its original cleanliness and shine.
Steps to Clean Textured Bathtub Bottoms
- Gather Cleaning Tools and Materials
The first step in cleaning is to prepare the right tools and cleaning agents. Many people may opt for hard brushes to quickly tackle dirt, but these can damage the bathtub's surface, making it prone to further grime buildup. To better protect your bathtub, it is recommended to use soft sponges or microfiber cloths, which are gentle yet effective and suitable for all bathtub materials.
As for cleaning agents, natural cleaners like white vinegar and dish soap are excellent options. However, for bathtubs with deep grooves and textures, these alone may not suffice for thorough cleaning. In such cases, baking soda and lemons become indispensable allies, capable of penetrating the crevices and breaking down stubborn stains.
- Pre-Treat the Bathtub Surface
Before diving into deep cleaning, remove any items from the bathtub to ensure an unobstructed cleaning process. Then, thoroughly wet the bathtub bottom with warm water and apply a small amount of dish soap, gently scrubbing the surface. This step effectively removes dust and light dirt, preparing the bathtub for the subsequent deep-cleaning process.
- Deep Clean the Textured Crevices
Once the surface dirt has been removed, you can focus on tackling the stubborn grime embedded in the grooves. Start by evenly sprinkling baking soda over the textured crevices, ensuring all hard-to-reach areas are covered. Next, pour a moderate amount of hot white vinegar—make sure it’s not too hot—just enough to saturate the textured bottom. You’ll hear a fizzing sound and see white foam, indicating the chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then use a cut lemon paired with baking soda to gently scrub the textured crevices. The natural acidity of the lemon further breaks down grime, while the baking soda provides additional abrasive power. Once you’ve finished scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with clean water, and your bathtub will look as good as new.
Thoughts on Bathtubs with Textured Bottoms
While textured-bottom bathtubs significantly enhance anti-slip safety, they can also become hotspots for grime and require regular cleaning to maintain hygiene. If frequent cleaning seems too tedious, you might consider alternatives like anti-slip mats.
Advantages of Anti-Slip Mats:
- Provide the same anti-slip effect as textured bathtubs.
- Can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement, offering convenience.
- Budget-friendly, with prices typically under $50.
For those who have not yet purchased a bathtub, if you seek a balance between anti-slip performance and ease of cleaning, solid surface bathtubs might be a better choice. These materials naturally feature a rough texture, ensuring excellent anti-slip performance even when wet. Compared to smooth materials like fiberglass, they are safer and easier to maintain.
Ending
Textured-bottom bathtubs are effective at preventing slips but require more effort to clean and maintain. If you wish to reduce cleaning burdens, consider using anti-slip mats as an alternative or opt for solid surface bathtubs. These solutions not only provide safety but also offer a more hassle-free experience.
