A Simple and Safe Vinegar-and-Salt Method for Bathtub Cleaning

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A Gentle Way to Clean Without Damaging the Surface

Limescale on a bathtub doesn’t appear overnight — it builds up slowly, and at some point the usual cleaners no longer seem to work. That’s when many people reach for harsh chemicals or stiff brushes. This approach may remove the buildup, but it also harms the enamel and shortens the bathtub’s lifespan. A milder, safer alternative is a simple blend of wine vinegar and salt. It effectively dissolves deposits without risking the coating and requires very little effort.

What You’ll Need

For treating a standard bathtub, prepare:

  • 200 ml of wine vinegar
  • 50 g of salt

These basic ingredients are easy to find at home and won’t damage the enamel.

Preparing the Solution

Pour the vinegar into a glass container, add the salt and stir until the crystals fully dissolve. To boost the cleaning action, the mixture can be gently warmed in the microwave — just a few minutes until it reaches roughly 70°C.

Application and Waiting Time

Soak a soft cloth in the solution and spread it evenly across the bathtub’s surface. Apply a slightly thicker layer to areas with heavier buildup. The mixture should remain on the surface for 20–30 minutes, giving the vinegar and salt enough time to break down the mineral deposits.

Final Steps

After the waiting period, wipe the bathtub with a soft sponge or cloth and rinse away the remaining solution with clean water. Consistent coverage and respect for the recommended exposure time make the biggest difference in the final result.

Why It Works

Abrasive brushes and strong chemical cleaners may act faster, but they also scratch and weaken the coating. The gentle vinegar-and-salt method dissolves limescale without harming the surface, and using it regularly helps maintain the bathtub without extra effort.

Preventing Limescale Buildup

To keep deposits from returning, it helps to:

  • rinse the bathtub after every use,
  • soften water with filters,
  • clean regularly with mild products.

In this case, consistency matters far more than an occasional deep cleaning.