How to Clean a Reglazed or Refinished Bathtub

Now that you have a newly refinished bathtub, you want to keep it that way. So how do you clean a reglazed or painted bathtub to keep the commercial coating sleek and shiny? The coating needs to be cleaned frequently with mild cleaners and soft sponges but it helps to know exactly what to use to clean a reglazed bathtub. That way, you won't end up back with the pitted and discolored tub that you probably just refinished. At the same time, you want a cleaning method that will actually work. Using a liquid non-abrasive solution on a regular basis is usually recommended by most tub refinishers.

Why Liquid Non-Abrasives Work Best

Whether you're the owner of a DIY-finished or professionally finished tub, it's best to use only soft liquid cleansers to clean and maintain the coating. The reason is that a refinished tub coating is layers of specialized paint that can be nicked or scratched without care, so it's best to stick to non-abrasive cleaners. However, for non-abrasive cleaners to work effectively, you will need to clean the tub frequently before soap scum or hard water deposits develop.

Most refinishing companies and DIY tub coating manufacturers seem to agree on a few commercial cleaners that are safe to use on refinished tubs, including:

• Scrubbing Bubbles
• Formula 409 (without bleach)
• Lysol Basin Tub and Tile Cleaner

Avoid These Cleaning Methods for Reglazed Tubs

Though it could be tempting at times, steer clear from cleaning your new glossy finish with the following techniques.

Do Not Use Abrasives

Abrasives include harsh or gritty cleaners as well as rough sponges, like Scotch-Brite pads, steel wool soap pads, or sponges with an abrasive layer on one side. Most tub refinishers and tub coating manufacturers also warn against any products containing bleach or ammonia. Avoid using these common cleansers when cleaning a reglazed tub:

• Powdered cleansers: This includes products like Ajax or Comet: Both products are abrasive and contain bleach.
• Bar Keepers Friend: Since this product does not contain bleach, it's often advertised as a more gentle way to clean than using Ajax or Comet. But the abrasives still can scratch the tub.
• Ammonia: Do not use ammonia or any cleaners containing ammonia.
• Bleach: Straight household bleach or cleaners boosted with bleach should not be used on reglazed tubs.
• Abrasive cream cleansers: Some of these products even contain the word "soft" in their name, but they still aren't soft enough for refinished tubs.

Do Not Steam Clean

A household steam cleaner with a scrubbing attachment may seem like a good way to get rid of all that dirt and soap gunk without using abrasives. Unfortunately, steam doesn't get the job done when it comes to reglazed tub finishes, and it could quickly damage the finish, especially if it gets underneath the coating or through any cracks.

Do Not Power Wash

Power washing old or original tile in a tub and shower can be done but it's not common and you should never attempt it on a reglazed surface. The action is simply too powerful for the coating to withstand. Power washing a reglazed surface could easily lead to peeling or other damage to the coating. It would also void the warranty on a professional refinishing job.