Clawfoot tubs, with their timeless beauty and nostalgic charm, have long been considered a centerpiece for any home’s bathroom. These elegant iconic clawfoot tubs not only add a touch of luxury but can also increase the value of your property. I have installed several in spec homes that were a huge home selling point leaving buyers in awe. However, authentic clawfoot tubs often come with deep-seated stains and cracks that require some elbow grease and special attention to restore their original shine. So if you’ve been struggling with how to clean an old porcelain clawfoot tub, I have answers!
As a staunch collector and lover of clawfoot tubs, I understand the passion and admiration that comes with owning these stunning romantic bathtub pieces. Over the course of my lifetime, I have owned and tackled the clean upwards of seven clawfoot tubs. I’ve lost the exact count! But every clawfoot tub was well worth the cost and effort, as a have truly adored each one.
Prepare for the scrub and suit up
Protective gloves and clothing covers as well as preparing a well ventilated work area is recommended. I often worked directly in my bathroom if the tub was already set and installed, however opened windows for fresh air and ran fans for a nice cross breeze.
Another good option is to work in the open. Choose a good outdoor area if you are able to move this heavy beast of a tub around!
Recommended cleaning process: how to clean a clawfoot tub
When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your clawfoot tub, I would highly recommend using a range of cleaning solutions graduating from mild to harsh. Starting with the mildest cleaning solution is always a good idea, as it allows you to gauge its effectiveness without unnecessarily risking any damage to the tub’s surface.
Begin by using a gentle household detergent or non-abrasive cleaner specially formulated for use on porcelain bathtubs. These mild cleaners are usually effective in removing light stains and dirt buildup. After cleaning away the main dirt and grime from your clawfoot tub, it will be clearer and easier to focus on any remaining persistent stains. You can gradually move on to slightly stronger cleaning solutions, always testing them on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they do not harm the tub’s finish. Be sure to thoroughly rinse away previous cleaning agents and drain your clawfoot tub to avoid mixing chemicals that can result in adverse reactions.
For more stubborn stains and cracks, you may need to use stronger cleaning agents. Believe me, there have been many times that I had to get down and dirty with the toughest. However, it is important to exercise caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using harsher chemicals. And never skip the protective gloves.
Cleaning agents popular for clawfoot tubs listed in order from mild to harsh
1. Dish Soap – Mild detergent
2. Baking soda – Mild abrasive
3. Hydrogen peroxide – Mild bleaching agent
4. White vinegar – Acidic cleaning agent. Harsh when used at high concentration or left on a surface too long.
5. CLR (Calcium, Lime, Rust Remover) – Hydrochloric acid cleaning agent. Harsh when not used as directed.
6. Bar Keepers Friend, Comet, Ajax – Harsh abrasive cleansers
7. Polishing compounds and electric buffer – Mild abrasive but can be harsh. Requires caution and skill to not apply too much pressure or over-heating of the porcelain.
Cleaning solutions to use with extra caution when dealing with clawfoot tubs
Cleaning solutions that should be used with extra caution due to their abrasive natures are rough and gritty scouring agents such as Bar Keepers Friend, Comet and Ajax. While these are effective for removing tough stains and grime, They contain very abrasive particles that can potentially scratch or damage porcelain surfaces if used repeatedly and improperly.
Electric buffing method for stubborn stains and polishing
Electric buffing can really save the day when facing a tough cleaning of a clawfoot tub. When paired with a good buffing compound, it can effectively remove stains in porcelain by utilizing friction rather than abrasion. Buffing compounds contain special ingredients that generate heat when applied to the surface. This heat, combined with the gentle pressure applied by the buffing machine, helps to break down and dislodge the stains without causing any damage to the porcelain surface.
The friction created by the buffing action helps to loosen the stains and allows the compounds to penetrate and remove them effectively. This method is particularly useful for removing tough yellow stains that are a notorious headache associated with cleaning clawfoot tubs. The powerful buffer eliminates using traditional abrasives, but requires extra caution and skill. If you think you can pull it off, your otherwise sore muscles will thank you!
How to Clean a Clawfoot Tub most effectively: My own experience
1. Bar Keepers Friend: In my own experience, I have discovered that the most effective cleaning solution for deep cleaning stubborn stains has been Bar Keepers Friend. This product has proven to be highly effective in removing tough stains that would not budge with milder cleaning methods. However, I refrain using it for ongoing maintenance to prevent the porcelain for becoming worn and damaged.
2. White Vinegar: Additionally, I have found success using a solution of white vinegar diluted with water in a 50-50 ratio to descale and clean my clawfoot tubs. By plugging the tub and allowing the solution to soak on the bottom 1-2 inches, it can work wonders. Continue by spraying the solution on the stained areas along the sides and letting it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen stains.
3. Electric Buffing: Another method I have employed is using an electric buffer with soft pads with a buffing compound specifically designed for porcelain surfaces. This combination has been incredibly effective in not only cleaning but also revitalizing the original shine of the tub.
The above three methods for cleaning clawfoot tubs have consistently provided the best results in deep cleaning and freshening the appearance of my cherished tubs.
Stain Prevention
To prevent staining of the porcelain and the need for future deep cleaning of your clawfoot tub, it is important to take caution when using bath products such as bath bombs and bath salts that contain dyes. These dyes can leave harsh stains on the tub’s surface. One effective way to prevent staining is to use these products sparingly.
For instance, if you do choose to use bath bombs or bath salts with dyes, I recommend this. Only allow a bath bomb to dissolve one quarter to half way in the water and then remove it. This will help minimize the amount of colorant released into the tub, reducing the risk of staining. Taking these precautions will help keep your porcelain clawfoot tub looking clean and beautiful.
Proper care and maintenance
Regular and proper maintenance is key to preserving the beauty and longevity of your clawfoot tub. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, harsh scrub brushes, or abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
Always remember this one thing when seeking how to clean a clawfoot tub. Excessive abrasion and scratches lead to thinning of the porcelain and will eventually lead to rusting. Further, it is also important to dry the tub after each use to prevent water spots and mineral buildup.
Final notes on how to clean a clawfoot tub
Clawfoot tubs are not only visually stunning but also hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate their timeless elegance. They are are versatile with any home style including vintage, farmhouse, modern and gothic.
While restoring their original shine may require some effort, the end result is well worth it. However, don’t be too disappointed if your tub has some remaining minor flaws. These original clawfoot tubs have aged through the years and witnessed a lot of history. They deserve to show a few character lines contrary to their new yet stunning clawfoot tub replicas.
Leave a Reply