Can you use bleach on fiberglass tubs?

Hey there! If you‘re reading this, chances are you recently purchased a home with a fiberglass tub or you‘re looking to replace your current tub with one. Fiberglass tubs have been a popular choice for over 50 years thanks to their durability, affordability, and easy maintenance.

But to keep your tub looking shiny and new, you have to know how to clean it properly. As a home renovation specialist, I‘ve seen the damage harsh cleaners can cause on fiberglass.

So in this guide, I‘ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and caring for a fiberglass tub from start to finish. I‘ll also share some insider tricks I‘ve learned from renovating bathrooms in dozens of homes over my career.

Let‘s start with the basics…

What Exactly is Fiberglass?

Fiberglass gets its name from the tiny glass fibers that are tightly woven together to create a sturdy, lightweight and waterproof material. These fibers are suspended in a plastic resin such as polyester.

When combined, the glass fibers provide strength while the resin seals out moisture. The resin is also pigmented to provide color.

During manufacturing, fiberglass goes through an application process called "gel-coating" – a resin with added polymers that creates an outer glossy finish and protects the base material underneath.

This combo of properties makes fiberglass a practical, inexpensive option for tubs and showers. In fact, fiberglass bathtubs have been the top-selling type in the U.S. for years:

U.S. Bathtub Sales by Material

• Fiberglass: 75%
• Acrylic: 15%
• Cast iron: 5%
• Other: 5%

(Source: Kitchen & Bath Industry Association)

But fiberglass requires a gentle touch when cleaning to avoid damaging that outer gel coat layer. That‘s where this guide comes in!

Why You Should Never Use Bleach on Fiberglass

Now that you understand the composition of fiberglass, it‘s easier to see why bleach and other harsh chemicals are a big no-no.

The toxic fumes created by the reaction between bleach and fiberglass resin put your health at risk. Prolonged inhalation can cause headaches, nausea, and other symptoms. So proper ventilation is key.

But more importantly, bleach deteriorates the gel coat finish by stripping away the protective polymers. This exposes the tiny glass fibers underneath, making the surface porous and prone to mold growth.

Once degraded, the porous surface also readily absorbs dyes from soap, shampoos and other products. This leads to stubborn staining and discoloration over time.

The damage caused by bleach is irreparable. You‘ll eventually end up with a pitted, lackluster surface no amount of scrubbing can fix. So avoid the temptation to use bleach at all costs!

Choosing the Right Cleaners

Cleaning experts agree – stick to non-abrasive cleaners free of harsh chemicals. Here are the best options recommended for fiberglass:

Dish Soap – For routine cleaning, dish soap diluted in warm water works perfectly. Look for a formula without added bleaches or antibacterials.

Baking Soda – Sodium bicarbonate is a natural deodorizer and a gentle abrasive for scrubbing away grime. Also helps remove stains when mixed with water into a paste.

White Vinegar – The acid in vinegar breaks down soap scum, hard water deposits, and stains without damaging the gel coat.

Hydrogen Peroxide – Mixed with baking soda into a paste, hydrogen peroxide can whiten and brighten a fiberglass tub. Rinse thoroughly after application.

Liquid Tub & Tile Cleaner – Choose a brand formulated specifically for fiberglass and avoid anything with acid or bleach.

Rubbing Compound – Lightly buffs out superficial scratches and scuffs. Use an automotive grade rubbing compound.

Steer clear of powder cleansers, steel wool, and scouring pads which scratch and abrade the finish.

And if in doubt – test any new product on an inconspicuous area first!

How to Clean a Fiberglass Bathtub

Now let‘s get down to business! Follow these steps to clean and care for your fiberglass tub:

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and add a squirt of dish soap. Soak a soft sponge in the mixture.

2. Gently scrub the walls and floor of the tub in circular motions. Avoid pressing too hard.

3. For stuck-on gunk, spray with undiluted white vinegar and let sit for 15 minutes. Use a plastic scraper to gently dislodge.

4. Rinse the tub thoroughly with warm water to remove all cleaner residue. This prevents buildup.

5. Dry the tub with a clean microfiber cloth. Make this a habit after every use for added protection.

6. Re-caulk around the tub if you notice cracks forming in the existing caulk. This prevents costly water damage.

7. Apply a fresh coat of fiberglass tub sealer every 6 months to maintain the protective barrier.

And there you have it – a sparkling clean fiberglass tub! But tackling specific stains and discoloration often needs a targeted approach…

Removing Stubborn Stains

Over years of use, fiberglass tubs inevitably accumulate difficult stains no amount of regular cleaning can budge.

Here are the most common stubborn stains and the most effective remedies:

Hard Water Stains – Spray with undiluted white vinegar and let sit for 15 minutes. Use a soft scrub brush and rinse thoroughly. For severe buildup, use a commercial hard water stain remover.

Soap Scum – Make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply and let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly.

Mold and Mildew – Spray problem areas with an antimicrobial cleaner or non-bleach mold remover. Disinfect and rinse thoroughly.

Rust Stains – Use a commercial rust remover made specifically for fiberglass. Lime-A-Way also works for iron deposits.

Oil and Grease – Dawn dish detergent excels at cutting through oily grime. Make a concentrated solution in warm water and scrub.

Dingy Yellowing – Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a thick paste. Apply with a soft cloth and gently buff. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.

For best results, always test cleaners and removers in an inconspicuous spot first. And be sure to rinse multiple times – residue left behind will quickly re-stain your tub!

DIY Fiberglass Tub Refinishing

If your fiberglass tub is badly stained, scratched or cracked, professional refinishing may be in order. But for moderate wear, I recommend trying DIY refinishing – it produces incredible results at a fraction of the cost!

Here are the basic steps:

Supplies Needed

• 120-220 grit sandpaper
• Tub & tile etching cleanser
• Fiberglass primer
• Epoxy tub refinishing paint kit
• Protective topcoat (polyurethane or acrylic)
• Paint tray, roller, and brush
• Painters tape and plastic sheeting

Process

1. Thoroughly clean and dry the tub – dirt will affect adhesion
2. Lightly scuff entire surface with 120 grit sandpaper
3. Rinse and wipe down with etching cleanser
4. Tape off the surrounding area and lay plastic on the floor
5. Apply 2 coats of fiberglass primer, allowing to dry in between
6. Apply at least 3 coats of refinishing paint according to kit instructions
7. Allow paint to cure fully (at least 48 hours) before use
8. Apply 1-2 protective topcoats for added durability

Follow all safety precautions when working with chemical paint strippers and epoxy paints. Ensure proper ventilation at all times.

And be aware the tub cannot be used for several days during the curing process. But the results are well worth the wait!

Calculating Costs of Bathtub Refinishing vs. Replacement

If your fiberglass tub is too far gone for DIY refinishing to remedy, you‘ll need to weigh the costs of professional refinishing vs a full replacement. Here are average costs to consider:

Professional Refinishing

• Cost: $400-$1200 depending on size
• Process time: 1-2 days
• Surface life extended: 7-10 years
• Major cons: Strong fumes during application, tub unusable for several days

New Bathtub Installation

• Cost: $2000-$5000+ depending on type of tub
• Process time: 2-5 days
• Surface life extended: 20+ years with proper care
• Major cons: More expensive, plumbing modifications required, removal of old tub

As you can see, refinishing provides a quicker and more affordable way to restore the appearance of your existing tub. It can buy you another decade before a full replacement becomes necessary.

But if budget allows, replacement does offer greater longevity and ability to upgrade features. Consult with local professionals to determine the best value for your specific needs.

Either way, be sure to care for your new or refinished tub properly to maximize its lifespan!

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Tub

The average fiberglass bathtub lasts 15-25 years with proper maintenance and cleaning. Here are my top tips to get the most out of your tub:

• Clean regularly with gentle, non-abrasive cleaners only
• Use a bath mat or stickers on the floor for grip and to prevent slipping
• Avoid using the tub as a step stool – the repeated impact damages fiberglass
• Open windows and run exhaust fans during baths to minimize humidity exposure
• Re-caulk annually and re-seal the surface every 6 months
• Consider professional refinishing when scratches become noticeable
• Hire professionals for any repairs to prevent improper patch jobs
• Avoid exposing fiberglass to pool chemicals – the chlorine degrades the finish

With diligent care and routine maintenance, you can add 5-10 extra years of life to your fiberglass bathtub easily!

Parting Thoughts

Well there you have it – everything you need to keep your fiberglass tub looking fresh and clean for decades to come! Now you can enjoy the affordability and ease of fiberglass without worry.

As a home renovation specialist, maintaining bathtubs is an integral part of my business. Feel free to reach out if you need any advice or want assistance with DIY refinishing. I‘m always happy to help a fellow homeowner out!

Here‘s to many more happy, relaxing soaks in your sparkling fiberglass tub. Thanks for reading!