How To Remove Stains From A Fiberglass Tub
A stained fiberglass bathtub can be difficult to get completely clean, especially if the tub is older and the bottom has become scratched. The following guide can help you permanently eliminate the stains, depending on what caused them and how severe they are.
#1: Mineral Deposits
Mineral stains are caused by the water. These stains are usually chalky and white, and they are typically caused by lime or calcium deposits. Many household cleaners aimed at mineral buildup are made for glass or porcelain, so they can etch and damage the more porous fiberglass. Fortunately, vinegar can often cut right through this buildup without any damage to the fiberglass. Plug the drain and apply enough vinegar to cover the affected area. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes, and then scrub it off with a sponge or soft bristle brush.
#2: Iron Stains
These rusty orange stains may come from iron in the water, or they could be the result of something metal that sat in the bath and rusted, such as a storage basket. Rust removers made for plastic, acrylic or fiberglass sometimes work well. Typically, these are applied directly to the stain and then left to soak for some time, before being rinsed off. Follow the package instructions. If these don't work, create a paste with cream of tartar and vinegar, and spread it over the stain. Allow it to dry and then rinse and scrub gently with a sponge.
#3: Dye Stains
Hair dyes can be the worst type of stain. Create a paste from an oxygenated bleach and water, and then spread it over the dye stain. Allow it to soak for 15 minutes and then rinse it off. If this doesn't work. Cover the stain with a layer of two or three paper towels. Pour household bleach onto the towels, soaking them. Allow this to set for 15 minutes before removing the towels and rinsing the tub.
If your stains are stubborn, which is often the case with dye and sometimes rust, you may not be able to remove it completely. Scratches and etching on the bottom of the tub may also make it difficult to remove the stains. In this case, it is time to consider bathtub refinishing. The contractor will first sand off the top surface of the tub, where they stain resides, and then they will apply a new gel coat. This will make the tub look brand new again, replenishing both its color and its shine.
For more information, contact Surface Specialists of Mid-MN or a similar company.