How To Clean Your Bathroom With Vinegar And Baking Soda

In our how to clean a bath guide we explain a number of ways in which you can achieve sparkling results. No one likes a grubby bathtub, but no one likes to clean it either! Following our how to clean a bath guide will make this dreaded task easier and less of a chore.

There are various ways you can clean a bath including buying special cleaning products, but you can easily tackle dirt and grime using homemade cleaners made from ingredients found around your home. Vinegar is a great example, as it easily cuts through soap scum and limescale.

Homemade bathroom cleaning products provide a cheaper and more eco-friendly alternative to using harsh shop-bought cleaning chemicals. Also, by using natural alternatives, you'll reduce the risk of damaging the surface of your bath.

corner bath against a turquoise wall

Cleaning a bath

You can make your own bath cleaning solution by diluting equal parts of white wine vinegar with water and using a plastic spray bottle. Spray onto the surface of your bath and simply wipe the dirt away. For a deeper clean, leave the solution for 15 minutes before wiping away with a soft cloth.

Bicarbonate of soda provides another affordable way to clean a bath. It's ideal for unclogging the drain and getting rid of yucky smells, as well as removing the soap gunk that's built up around the bath taps.

For stubborn stains and heavier dirt, sprinkle the bath with baking soda and spray on the vinegar and water solution. Allow the mixture to bubble for a few minutes, and then scrub with a sponge until a paste forms. Leave the paste for 15 minutes, then wipe away and rinse clean.

For hard water stains, dip paper towels in white vinegar and place the soaked towels on the affected area. Leave for 1-2 hours and then scrub with baking soda and vinegar paste before rinsing clean.

Rinsing down your bath after each use must be one of the best ways that you can keep it clean. Quick and easy to do, rinsing down the bath cleans away any leftover soap and bathing products that can leave a residue on the surface.

To remove soapy residue and to prevent mineral deposits from building up, simply wipe down the bath with a quick spray of vinegar and sponge and soft cloth. A quick wipe down after each use will help to prevent a ring from forming around the bath. These dark rings are usually left after using oily bath products and can be difficult to remove if left for too long.

chrome bath tap with water pouring from spout

Getting rid of mould and mildew

The bathroom is the perfect environment for mould and mildew to grow, and it's important to let steam out of the room and let fresh air circulate. If you notice mould and mildew starting to form, it's a good idea to tackle it straight away. Mould typically grows in the grout and sealant around the bath. Using bleach and scrubbing with a toothbrush is the ideal solution for getting rid of the mould. You can also make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water, apply to the required area and leave for 15 minutes, before scrubbing it away.

More cleaning tips on how to remove mould in your bathroom and how to clean grout .

Don't forget to clean the bath drain

Removing grime and hair from the bath drain on a regular basis ensures the water flows quickly away. To clean the drain and pipes, pour half a cup of bicarbonate of soda down the plughole followed by an equal measure of white vinegar. This mixture will foam up in the plug and break down blockages. Then, pour boiling water down the drain to rinse away.

How to clean bath taps

Good quality bath taps are durable and designed to withstand many years of use, but to keep them sparkling, regular cleaning is required.

Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your bath taps as they could damage the surface. Lemon juice is perfect for dissolving limescale and build-up from water deposits, plus it will give a brilliant shine – it really is that simple!

Things to bear in mind when cleaning a bath

Avoid using steel wool, abrasive brushes and scouring powders when cleaning your bath, as these can scratch the surface.
Never mix cleaning products. Certain combinations of chemicals such as chlorine, bleach and ammonia can create toxic fumes and even burn your skin.
When using chemicals, ensure the area is well ventilated and wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Wipe and rinse away cleaning products to prevent any residue in the bath.

Cleaning your bath doesn't have to be a chore if you spend a few minutes after each use rinsing and wiping away any soapy residue. Cleaning on a regular basis prevents dirt and mould from becoming an issue, and keeps your bath looking like new.

Clean a toilet, descale a shower head, remove mould, clean grout, spruce up shower glass…

Hi, I'm Liz, an interiors blogger. My main focus area is the bathroom, where I aim to inspire anyone who's planning and designing a new bathroom – you'll find plenty of tips, how-to guides and a wealth of ideas!