How clean an enamel bath tub?

Question

How can I clean what looks like several years build up of soap scum on a enamel bath tub?
I have tried several commercial cleaners but it looks like it will be days before it's done.

Account Closed · Answer

I googled it and found this, along with other sites. At a glance, this one has several solutions. 
http://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Tough-Stains-from-a-Bathtub

I found a really good toilet bowl cleaner at ACE Hardware, I think. About a quart, in a white plastic cylindrical bottle with blue print. I looked for it at Home Depot yesterday and did not find it, so I'm sure it was ACE.  Worked wonders on the nasty toilet that was here when I moved in. That might do the trick. Directions for stubborn stains were to flush the water out then squirt this stuff on and let it set overnight. Worked like a charm.

Anson Young · Answer

Can you re-glaze?

Account Closed · Answer

My thought of the stain remover is SO-O much easier. I think it will work.

Tim Conway · Answer

I've actually used an epoxy formula designed for this purpose.  It requires some elbow grease and the stuff is pretty nasty so you'd need very good ventilation.  Just go down to Lowe's, Home Depot, etc. and look/ask for an epoxy tub and sink refinishing kit. I've used this twice on mobile home tubs with very good results.

Rusty Thompson · Answer

First off I have never done this before... but I have thought about it. First of enamel is just paint. Nice duarble paint... but still just paint. So if I had some really viscous stain I would wet sand the whole thing with 1000 grit sand paper or a 00 steel wool. This will remove the stains but dull the finish. Next use a variable speed buffer and some rubbing compound to polish it back out. Watch out for "burning" through the enamal on edges.... just a idea. Actually I wonder if just rubbing compound would work....

NA Foster · Answer

Hey ofgift-Thanks.  I'll try those suggestions but remember that some cleaners will have the Sewer Line Police coming to get me. LOL

NA Foster · Answer

Thanks for the idea Anson.  I will if I have to but prefer to get a few more years use if possible.

How clean an enamel bath tub?

Most Popular Reply