How to Make Tubs Shiny Again

How to Build a Tub Box for a Drop-In Tub
Written By
April Dowling
April Dowling
Published: Aug 13, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

This grime becomes more attached to tub surfaces over time, causing otherwise shiny fiberglass, porcelain or acrylic to become dull. Dirty, dull bathtubs are unpleasant to use and look upon. Fortunately, basic solutions are capable of making any bathtub shiny again.

  1. Squirt 1/4 tsp. of regular, mild dishwashing liquid into a 1-gallon bucket. Fill the bucket with water, and then thoroughly mix the solution.

  2. Drench a cleaning rag with the dishwashing solution. Wipe the tub’s surface to dislodge grime buildup and stains.

  3. Continue wiping the tub’s surface with the solution until all buildup and stains are gone. Frequently rinse the rag under the tub’s faucet as you clean.

  4. Saturate another rag with water. Wipe the tub’s soapy surface to rinse away the solution.

  5. Buff the tub’s surface with a soft towel. Leave no moisture on the tub’s surface.

  6. Inspect the tub for shine. If the tub’s surface isn’t as shiny as you would prefer, apply car wax to another rag.

  7. Wipe the tub walls (but not the bottom of the tub) with the wax, distributing it thinly and evenly. Let the thin coat of wax fully dry.

  8. Buff the tub walls with a fresh rag, removing the excess wax buildup. Continue buffing the tub walls until they shine.

Things You Will Need

  • 1/4 tsp. regular, mild dishwashing liquid
  • 1-gallon bucket
  • 4 cleaning rags
  • Soft towel
  • Car wax

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

April Dowling

April Dowling first started writing in high school and has written many news articles for newspaper and yearbook publications. She is currently pursuing a career as an online writer and affiliate marketer. Dowling writes for several…

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