It is very beneficial when using an all-around cleaning agent to clean the toilet, but what about the other parts of the bathroom? If it is something that you are worried about, is it a good idea to use it in the bathtub?
Most of the time, toilet bowl cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage or ruin the appearance and color of the bathtub. These products will remove the toughest stains from the bowl but at a price.
Using baking soda can help remove the buildup of toilet bowl cleaner on the bathtub’s surface. Doing so will allow it to get spotless and prevent it from wearing down.
This guide will give you the necessary information to determine what to do if the issue persists.
Contents
Can You Use Toilet Bowl Cleaner on a Bathtub?
Many people believe that using a toilet bowl cleaner is an alternative to scrubbing their sinks and baths. However, is it safe to use in the bathtub?
Do not use toilet cleaner to clean your bathtub. However, it does remove the debris and stains quickly and conveniently. Also, what about the toxic elements used in the manufacturing process?
Most commonly used toilet cleaners contain toxic chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite, bleach, and benzenesulfonic acid. These ingredients are known to produce incredibly effective cleaning results.
According to experts, toilet bowl cleaner could cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. It could also lead to toxic effects if used in the water. Also, since the residual product could harm one’s skin, it’s important to avoid using it.
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How to Clean a Bathtub Properly?
To prevent ruining the surface and color of your bathtub, you need to do things properly. Here are some of the essential steps you can take.
Run Water
You can get rid of the leftover toilet bowl cleaner residue by washing the bathtub with water. This step will help remove the buildup of the cleaner on the surface. However, this is not going to remove the entire bowl cleaner.
After using a toilet bowl cleaner, you will need to go through a more rigorous cleaning process to get the best results from your bathtub.
When cleaning the tub, make sure to cover the entire surface of the container thoroughly. It will keep it moist and allow you to use baking soda when you start using it.
Use Baking Soda
While you are cleaning the tub, spread baking soda on the surface of the container. Doing so will help keep the surface clean and prevent buildup. It will also help remove the leftover residue from the surface.
When baking soda interacts with the cleaner, it will immediately remove it from the tub’s surface. It is what you need to do in a situation where the cleaner will ruin the surface.
This step aims to spread the baking soda evenly across the entire surface of the container. You want to make sure that the whole surface is thoroughly covered.
Rinse Again
You will also need to add water to the container to continue spreading the baking soda. The objective is to keep it moist as you continue to do this. To prevent the surface from getting wet, add a small amount of water.
Since you have already washed the container, you don’t need a lot of water to do this step. Just sprinkle some water on the baking soda and start scrubbing the surface.
Scrub Nicely
The last step is to use a hard-bristled brush to clean the surface. Using this tool, go in a circular motion and thoroughly cover the entire surface of the tub.
The only way to remove the remaining toilet bowl cleaner residue is to remove it from the bathtub’s surface. Doing this step will require a lot of hard work.
After scrubbing the surface, you will notice that the baking soda begins to come off. It is when you will use the power of the baking soda to clean the surface.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
How to Remove Tough Bathtub Stains?
If you have some baking soda and vinegar, you can remove tough bathtub stains.
Make a paste by mixing hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. You can efficiently make it by mixing a couple of parts hydrogen peroxide with one part baking soda. For instance, if you’re going to use cups, add two cups of baking soda and one cup of hydrogen peroxide.
To get the best results, rub the paste all over the tub. Then, cover the stain with homemade paste and let it sit for a couple of hours.
You can check the progress of the paste by wiping away a tiny section. If it still hasn’t gotten rid of the stains, let it soak more, then rinse and repeat.
Dos and Don’t of Cleaning Bathtubs
Don’t use steel wool or harsh cleaning products when cleaning a bathtub. Doing so will ruin whatever you just cleaned and won’t get the desired result. Instead, use soft rags, scrub brushes, and soap and water.
When it comes to cleaning, never mix cleaning products. Combining these chemicals can create toxic fumes and even cause skin damage.
For instance, if you mix a specific toilet bowl cleaner with a harmful chemical, such as hydrochloric acid, you can create a deadly gas known as Chlorine Gas.
Never use chemicals without proper equipment, such as gloves, masks, and goggles. It’s essential to use cleaning products in a well-ventilated area, so open your exhaust fan and bathroom windows.
Even if some homemade cleaning agents are not harmful, they can still create unpleasant side effects such as nausea and headaches.
If you’re planning on wearing your favorite shirt or outfit on your cleaning day, do not! Chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide can cause fabrics to get ruined. Also, rinse hydrogen peroxide and water off surfaces you’re cleaning, such as your slippers and shorts.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Remove Bathtub Rust Stains?
Don’t be discouraged if you suspect that calcium deposits might cause rust. There are simple ways you can try.
First, you can use lemons. Cut the lemon in half, then place the cut side of the lemon on the stain and rub it until it gets pasty. After that, let the paste sit for about 15 minutes.
After washing it all off, let it sit for another couple of minutes to allow the mixture to penetrate the rust. If it still looks like it’s not as bright as you want, give it another try.
Can I Use Toilet Bowl Cleaner to Clean My Sink?
You can’t use a toilet bowl cleaner to clean your sink. The acidic formula of the toilet cleaner will leave a hash mark on your bathroom sink. It will also mess up the look of the surface.
Avoid using harsh toilet cleaner to get rid of the debris and other particles in the sink. You can find more effective cleaning agents at your local stores.
What Can I Use to Clean My Shower?
Contrary to popular belief, toilet bowl cleaners are not for cleaning the entire bathroom. They are only used to remove dirt and grime from the bowl. You should avoid using harsh chemicals on your bathroom fixtures and surfaces.
You should utilize natural products such as water or vinegar. They can help remove grime and keep the environment clean but not toxic.
Aside from regular cleaning products, you can also try some old-fashioned cleaning techniques by planting some green plants around your house. Some of these include thyme, which has antimicrobial properties, and lemon balm, which can help remove stains.
Conclusion
Toilet bowl cleaner ruined your bathtub because of its harsh chemicals. Although it can provide a good cleaning result, the acidic and potent formula of the product can cause skin irritation.
Instead, use products designed for both the sink and bathtub cleaning. Homemade cleaning solutions are an excellent alternative to buying expensive ones.
