Whether a luxurious bath is part of your nightly routine, or you primarily use your tub for bathing your dogs, you're probably familiar with bathtub rings. These unsightly marks are soap scum; if you ignore them for too long, they can be challenging to remove. People can even accidentally damage the surface of the tub from aggressive cleaning. When that happens, you may need to get bathtub refinishing. If you want to try cleaning it yourself first, here are some suggestions.

How to Get Rid of Bathtub Rings

1. Dishwashing Soap, Vinegar, & Water

The gentlest way to break up a bathtub ring is by mixing a tablespoon of liquid dishwashing soap with four cups of vinegar and four cups of water. Both the soap and vinegar help break down the oils on the surface of the ring. Pour the mixture into a large spray bottle and spritz it onto the ring.

Let the solution sit for 15 minutes and then use a firm, plastic-bristle brush or soft sponge to clean it up. Rinse thoroughly. If you don't want premature bathtub refinishing, don't use this on porous surfaces like marble or granite; the acidic quality of the vinegar can be too harsh.

2. Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide

If you need a bit more cleaning power, try this mixture. Start with about a cup of baking soda and slowly add enough hydrogen peroxide to create a toothpaste-like consistency. The small baking soda particles provide scouring action.

Using gloved hands, dip either a plastic-bristle brush or a soft sponge and apply it directly to the ring. Be careful when using hydrogen peroxide on colored surfaces. Although it's milder than chlorine bleach, it could lighten the hue—always test a small area first.

3. Borax, Dishwashing Soap, & Water

Like baking soda, borax can serve as a scouring agent. Use about a cup of borax and add just one or two tablespoons of dishwashing soap. Pour in enough water to create a batter-like consistency. Again, apply it to the ring and leave it for 15 minutes, but don't let it dry. Use a brush or sponge for scrubbing and rinse it thoroughly; borax and dishwashing soap can create a slippery surface, so it needs to be rinsed well.

If soap scum has ruined your bathtub's surface, contact Contemporary Refinishing. For more than 15 years, this fully licensed and insured company has served homeowners through Greater St. Louis, MO. They offer bathtub refinishing and repairs for all types, whether they're antique, porcelain, or acrylic. Thorough, efficient, and affordable, they will have your tub looking like new before you know it. Learn more about their bathtub refinishing process on their website or by calling (314) 520-0857.