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How to Make a Fiberglass Tub White Again

Written By: Irene Lefever
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: May 5, 2021
Last updated: March 10, 2024

Fiberglass-reinforced surfaces have a gorgeous, stunning finish that adds a creamy, crystal-white glossy effect to your walk-in tub. They look absolutely divine brand-new. Sadly, the same can’t be said for frequently-used tubs. How do you keep your fiberglass-reinforced walk-in tubs clean and free of eyesores like scratches and stains?

Fiberglass surfaces are prone to scratches, so you need to use non-abrasive materials and cleaners to maintain fiberglass-reinforced tubs. For the solvent, use natural options, such as vinegar, baking soda, shampoo, or dishwashing soap. Then, use a soft microfiber towel or sponge to rub them on the tub.

Tips To Keeping Fiberglass Walk-In Tubs Clean and Stain-Free

Follow these simple, efficient tips to bring back your walk-in tub’s shiny, smooth crystal-white surface:

1. Stock up on Microfiber Towels and Sponges

Fiberglass surfaces scratch easily, so only use soft microfiber towels and sponges to clean your fiberglass-reinforced tub. Avoid using anything with sharp edges or bristles. 

2. Use Non-Abrasive Cleaners

Stick to natural, non-abrasive all-purpose cleaners like vinegar and baking soda. Harmful, abrasive, and toxic cleaners put the surface paint at risk of discoloration. 

3. Use Tub Refinishing Paint for Restoration

If the walk-in tub’s surface does not have deep cracks and its features still function properly, you can try restoring it with refinishing paint. Make sure to get a shade of white that matches your fixture.

Make shower time easier for your senior loved one with a bath chair. We have multiple buyer guides comparing the best shower chairs on the market. Check out our article on it now!

Self-Cleaning Walk-In Bathtubs

Most modern walk-in bathtub and shower combinations come with a self-cleaning feature. It prevents mold, scum, and grime from building up by flushing them off with water jets after every session.

Note: This feature does not remove the need for routine cleaning. Grime and dirt might not accumulate, but the fiberglass-reinforced surface can get stains, scratches, and such.

Cleaning walk-in bathtubs is definitely not a fun way to spend your day off, but you should never forgo the task. Dirty walk-in bathtubs pose a health and safety risk. Scum, grime, and mold buildup will make the floors slippery and expose the tub user to various germs and bacteria. Ideally, strive to have your loved one’s tub cleaned once or twice a month.
Building a senior-friendly bathroom? Senior Strong has multiple resources to help readers create a safe bathing space for their elderly loved ones. Check out our article on bathroom safety products for seniors to learn more!

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Irene Lefever is a senior advisor whose role is to make sure that senior citizens’ physical, mental, psychological, and emotional needs are catered to. Lefever got her degree in Multimedia Arts at the University of California, Riverside.
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