Keeping your bathtub sparkling clean is more than just aesthetics-it’s about hygiene and maintaining a relaxing bathroom environment. Bathtubs accumulate soap scum, hard water stains, mold, and mildew, which can harbor bacteria and odors if not addressed. A high-quality bathtub cleaner cuts through grime, disinfects surfaces, and ensures your tub remains a sanctuary for soaking. With countless products on the market, selecting the best one depends on your tub’s material, the type of stains, and your preference for eco-friendly or heavy-duty formulas.
Top Picks for Bathtub Cleaners
Based on extensive testing and consumer feedback, here are the standout bathtub cleaners that deliver exceptional results for various needs.
Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Grime Fighter Spray
The best bathtub cleaner we tested was the Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Grime Fighter, a foamy solution that left our tile sparkling clean. When used properly, it’s a disinfectant that’s safe on tubs, shower walls and doors, and even vinyl shower curtains. To test the spray, we spread a mud mask on a grouted tile, letting it sit and harden before cleaning. We sprayed the Scrubbing Bubbles and let it sit for five minutes before wiping it off, as recommended for disinfection. The spray cleaned the mud mask thoroughly from the grout and tile, leaving the area just as clean as our untouched tile. Two minutes after cleaning, we wiped the surface with a clean paper towel, which came up clean-meaning the spray left no residue behind.
- Pros: Fast-acting foam, no residue, disinfects, safe on multiple surfaces
- Cons: No mist option, not suitable for brass or natural marble
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CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Action Cleaner
To effectively cut through dirt, calcium, lime, hard water deposits, and soap scum on bathroom surfaces, we recommend the CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Action Cleaner. This cleaner is EPA Safer Choice-certified, has a B rating from the EWG, and is safe to use on glass, porcelain, chrome, ceramic, white grout, and more, leaving your bathroom sparkling clean. As a bonus, CLR is women-owned and made in the U.S. CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Action Cleaner is formulated without alcohol, phosphates, ammonia, or bleach and is septic-safe and biodegradable. For best results, spray 6 to 8 inches away, let sit for up to three minutes, wipe with a damp sponge or cloth, and rinse. For heavy-duty messes, use a scrubbing brush before rinsing.
- Pros: EPA Safer Choice-certified, no harsh chemicals, effective on white grout
- Cons: Not suitable for colored grout, doesn’t remove rust
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Mrs. Meyer’s Tub and Tile Cleaner
The Mrs. Meyer’s Tub and Tile cleaner was a close runner-up and a great option for those who don’t need a disinfectant. The Mrs. Meyer’s spray is scented with essential oils. We found the lavender scent subtle and pleasant, and it didn’t linger too long. Keep in mind, this bathtub cleaner is not a certified disinfectant, so you may want to grab another option after a family member recovers from a cold or for cleaning toilets and door handles. It’s safe to use on most bathroom surfaces, but it shouldn’t be used on natural marble, brass, or wood.
- Pros: Pleasant lavender scent, plant-based, gentle on surfaces
- Cons: Not a disinfectant, less effective on tough stains
Bon Ami Powder Cleanser
If you’re on the hunt for an affordable, naturally-made cleaner that won’t damage your porcelain tub, the Bon Ami Powder Cleanser is a tried-and-tested product that will actually leave your tub sparkling. It’s formulated without harsh chemicals and is effective yet gentle on hard surfaces. Even with a thorough, tough scrub, my tub remains unscratched and, impressively, sparkling when done. It’s important not to use this product with a scouring pad, like Brillo, as this can chip away your tub’s foundation. Use either a sponge around your tub’s surface or a scrubbing brush-my go-to-for your entire tub floor.
- Pros: No chlorine or dyes, gentle on porcelain, polishes surfaces
- Cons: Requires more elbow grease, not for acrylic tubs
RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover
Mold is no friend to people who suffer from allergies, autoimmune diseases, or respiratory infections, and it must be tackled early on to keep it from spreading to and penetrating various bathroom surfaces. But if mold is already present, RMR-86 removes the stains and odors that black mold and mildew leave between bathroom tiles, on grout, and on shower doors. We tested RMR-86 in the track of a shower door and around the drain of a bathtub/shower, both locations where mold and mildew easily accumulate. It removed both. The instructions require leaving the solution on the mold and mildew until the stains disappear.
- Pros: Fast mold removal, no scrubbing needed, effective on grout
- Cons: Strong chemical smell, requires ventilation
Comparison Table of Top Bathtub Cleaners
| Product | Type | Key Features | Compatible Surfaces | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scrubbing Bubbles Grime Fighter | Foaming Spray | Disinfects, no residue, fast-acting | Tubs, tiles, shower curtains | $15–$20 |
| CLR Brilliant Bath | Foaming Spray | EPA Safer Choice, no harsh chemicals | Porcelain, ceramic, white grout | $10–$15 |
| Mrs. Meyer’s Tub and Tile | Spray | Plant-based, pleasant scent | Most surfaces except marble, brass | $8–$12 |
| Bon Ami Powder Cleanser | Powder | Natural, gentle, polishes | Porcelain, ceramic | $5–$10 |
| RMR-86 Mold Remover | Spray | Fast mold removal, no scrubbing | Grout, tiles, shower doors | $15–$25 |
How We Tested These Cleaners
To find the best bathtub cleaners for a variety of needs, we tested 27 bathroom cleaners, analyzing the ease of use, effectiveness, scent, and overall value to choose the top cleaners. We tested each solution on a section of tile to test their effectiveness on hard surfaces and grout. We spread a mud mask mixture on the tile and left it to dry. Then, we applied the cleaning solution to one tile square, letting it sit as long as stated by the manufacturer. We also surveyed a group of 186 people who tested these bathtub cleaners in their own bathrooms, carefully evaluating which were most effective.
For specific stains like mold, we tested products like RMR-86 in real-world scenarios, such as shower door tracks and bathtub drains, where mold accumulates. For hard water stains, we used cleaners like CLR Brilliant Bath on fiberglass tubs with well water, noting how they handled waxy buildup and mineral deposits. Each product was evaluated for compatibility with common bathtub materials like porcelain, fiberglass, and acrylic, ensuring no damage occurred during cleaning.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Bathtub Cleaner
Choosing the right bathtub cleaner depends on several factors, including the type of stains, your tub’s material, and your preference for eco-friendly or heavy-duty formulas. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision.
Consider Your Bathtub Material
Before you choose a tub and shower cleaner, it’s important to know the type of material(s) your tub and shower are made of, to avoid causing costly damage by using the wrong cleaning agents or tools. The most common types of tub and shower materials are enameled metal, porcelain, acrylic, fiberglass, tile, marble, and other natural stones.
- Porcelain and Ceramic: Most cleaners are safe, but avoid abrasive powders on delicate finishes.
- Acrylic and Fiberglass: Use non-abrasive cleaners to prevent scratches.
- Marble and Natural Stone: Avoid acidic or harsh chemical cleaners.
Types of Stains and Cleaners
Bathtubs accumulate various stains, and not all cleaners are designed for every type.
- Soap Scum: Foaming sprays like Scrubbing Bubbles or CLR Brilliant Bath cling to surfaces and break down residue.
- Hard Water Stains: Cleaners with oxygen bleach, like Bring It On, or CLR Pro are effective.
- Mold and Mildew: Bleach-based sprays like RMR-86 or Clorox Tilex target mold stains.
- General Grime: Plant-based options like Mrs. Meyer’s or Bon Ami work for light cleaning.
Eco-Friendly vs. Heavy-Duty Formulas
Chemical-based cleaners (particularly those with bleach) are going to clean your bathroom more thoroughly, but they may be difficult for people with sensitivity to their indoor air quality to use on a regular basis. Gentler all-purpose cleaners can be used for lighter, weekly bathroom cleaning to keep the tiles and floor free of visible grime and build-up, but chemical cleaners should be used for deeper cleans. If you clean with bleach, remember to do it safely by keeping your area well-ventilated, wearing hand and face protection, and never mixing it with other cleaning chemicals.
Ease of Use
Spray cleaners are one of the most popular types of bathroom cleaners. They come in a liquid form and are typically sold in spray bottles for easy application. Spray cleaners are convenient to use as they can be applied directly to the surfaces, and some may have a foaming action for better coverage. They are often formulated to remove soap scum, mineral deposits, and mildew. Aerosol foam cleaners like Scrubbing Bubbles can provide better coverage and cling to vertical surfaces better than liquid tub and shower cleaners.
How to Clean Your Bathtub Effectively
To tackle this dirty job, we asked Briana Short, the president of Caliber Cleaning, a Washington-based home cleaning service with 14 years of experience in cleaning homes (and bathtubs specifically), for a few pro tips. She says, ¡°The best way to thoroughly clean your bathtub is to first spray the tub with an all-purpose cleaner. If you have soap scum build-up-check this by running your hand along tub walls while dry-use a powdered nonabrasive cleanser to scrub the tub.¡± But if you’re looking to give your tub a truly thorough cleaning, there are a few more steps to take. Short says to ¡°turn on the water to rinse the product down the drain and use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the tub to prevent watermarks. Once this is done, use a microfiber cloth with one or two sprays of cleaner and polish your fixtures.¡±
- Spray the tub with a cleaner like Scrubbing Bubbles or CLR Brilliant Bath.
- Let it sit for the recommended time (usually 3–5 minutes).
- Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush for tough stains.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent watermarks.
- Polish fixtures with a small amount of cleaner for extra shine.
For more cleaning tips, check out Bob Vila’s guide to cleaning bathtubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my bathtub?
A bathtub should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week to reduce bacteria and odors. For households with heavy use, consider a quick wipe-down every few days to prevent buildup.
Can I use the same cleaner for all bathtub materials?
No, some cleaners can damage certain materials. For example, acidic or abrasive cleaners may harm marble or acrylic tubs. Always check the product label for compatible surfaces.
Are eco-friendly cleaners as effective as chemical-based ones?
Eco-friendly cleaners like Bon Ami or Mrs. Meyer’s are effective for light to moderate stains but may require more effort for tough grime. Chemical-based cleaners like RMR-86 or Scrubbing Bubbles are better for heavy-duty cleaning.
What’s the best way to remove mold from a bathtub?
Use a mold-specific cleaner like RMR-86 or Clorox Tilex. Spray the affected area, let it sit until the stains disappear, and rinse thoroughly. Ensure proper ventilation during use.
Do I need special tools to clean my bathtub?
A non-abrasive sponge, microfiber cloth, and a scrub brush are sufficient for most cleaning tasks. For hard water stains, a drill brush attachment can enhance results with products like Bring It On.
Conclusion
A sparkling clean bathtub transforms your bathroom into a relaxing oasis. Whether you need a heavy-duty cleaner like Scrubbing Bubbles for tough grime, an eco-friendly option like Bon Ami for gentle polishing, or a mold-busting spray like RMR-86, there’s a product tailored to your needs. By considering your tub’s material, the type of stains, and your cleaning preferences, you can choose the perfect cleaner to keep your bathtub pristine. Regular maintenance and the right tools will ensure your tub stays sparkling for years to come.