What’s the right way to clean a fiberglass bathtub? This article will walk you through cleaning your tub while protecting it from scratches.

Fiberglass bathtubs are easy to maintain but, when it comes to cleaning a fiberglass bathtub, you must be careful because the material is quite soft, making these tubs vulnerable to scratches.

When you clean a fiberglass bathtub, take the following tips into consideration.

fiberglass bath tub cleaning
Cleaning a fiberglass bathtubs calls for non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratches. © Don Vandervort, HomeTips

Depending upon the cleaning needed, try the following cleaning options.

Apply cleaners gently with a non-abrasive applicator such as a sponge, cloth, or brush made of nylon, polyethylene, or polyester. Never use abrasive cleaners of any type on a fiberglass surface. Absolutely avoid abrasive powders and pads.

This video shows a great way to make a “miracle” cleaning solution for bathtubs, tile, and more. The solution is a no-brainer. It’s just equal parts of Dawn® dishwashing soap and distilled white vinegar. You mix together Dawn® and vinegar in a spray bottle. Then you spray the mixture on the surfaces and wipe it off with soft cloth or sponge.

Other cleaning options are:

• Liquid dishwashing soap or liquid laundry detergent.

• All-purpose household cleaners, such as liquid 409 or similar liquid bathroom cleaner

• Mild to moderate alkali solutions such as mixtures of baking soda with warm water, or a diluted TSP (trisodium phosphate) substitute in warm water (make sure it’s fully dissolved so it doesn’t scratch the surface).

For stubborn areas, such as bathtub rings, you can make a paste out of baking soda and vinegar. Wet down the tub’s surface and gently rub the paste onto it with a sponge, soft nylon brush, or cloth.

Always rinse the cleaned surface thoroughly to make sure no cleaning residue remains.

How to Clean a Fiberglass Bathtub FAQs

  • What is the best way to clean a dirty fiberglass tub?

The best way to clean a dirty fiberglass tub is to use non-abrasive cleaners and applicators. You can use liquid dishwashing soap, liquid laundry detergent, or all-purpose household cleaners applied gently with a sponge, cloth, or nylon brush. A highly effective “miracle” cleaning solution is made by mixing equal parts Dawn® dishwashing soap and distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle, then spraying the mixture on the tub’s surface and wiping it off with a soft cloth or sponge. Always rinse thoroughly to ensure no cleaning residue remains.

  • What should you not use on a fiberglass tub?

You should not use abrasive cleaners, powders, or pads on a fiberglass tub, as they can scratch the surface. Avoid abrasive applicators and harsh cleaning agents that can damage the fiberglass.

  • Can you clean a fiberglass tub with baking soda?

Yes, you can clean a fiberglass tub with baking soda. For stubborn areas such as bathtub rings, you can make a paste out of baking soda and vinegar. Wet the tub’s surface and gently rub the paste onto it with a sponge, soft nylon brush, or cloth. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.

  • Can you clean fiberglass with vinegar?

Yes, you can clean fiberglass with vinegar. An effective cleaning solution involves mixing equal parts distilled white vinegar and Dawn® dishwashing soap. Spray this mixture on the fiberglass surface and wipe it off with a soft cloth or sponge. This method helps clean the tub without scratching it.

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About Don Vandervort
Don Vandervort has developed his expertise for more than 30 years as a remodeler and builder, Building Editor for Sunset Books, Senior Editor at Home Magazine, author of more than 30 home improvement books, and writer of countless magazine articles. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTV’s “The Fix,” served as MSN’s home expert for several years, and is featured as Yelp's home improvement expert. Don founded HomeTips in 1996. Read more about Don Vandervort