Caring For Your Refinished Bathtub
When you have your bathtub refinished, it is important to follow the proper care instructions to ensure that the finish lasts as long as possible. In this article we share some tips on how to care for your refinished bathtub.
Our first tip and maybe the most important is to always use a soft cloth when cleaning a refinished tub and do not use any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the finish. You can use a mild dishwashing liquid to clean your tub, Dawn dish soap works great. Avoid using bleach detergents or abrasive cleaners, as they will destroy both your finish on your bathtub and any other refinished surface.
What cleaners do I use?
We recommend frequently cleaning the resurfaced area using non-abrasive cleaning products such as, but not limited to:
Only clean the tub as often as necessary, because too much harsh cleaner and scrubbing will remove or dull the finish.
Rinse the tub with clean water after using any cleansers.
The product used in refinishing your tub is similar to automobile finishes. You can use light, non-abrasive wax or grease removers, when necessary, but be sure to test them in an inconspicuous spot first and use caution as to not damage the finish.
What not to do?
Do not leave any soapy residue on a refinished tub after bathing. You'll want to clean it off immediately with a soft wet cloth or sponge. If there is any residue left over, it will create a hazy film that will build up over time and can lead to finish failure.
Do not use any harsh chemical cleaners on your newly refinished tub. They can remove the new finish and leave it looking dull. Use only soft sponges or cloths to clean around fixtures or handles.
Avoid getting water spots on the refinished tub by drying off any excessive water immediately after bathing. A soft sponge or rag can be helpful for this purpose. It's also important to wipe down the refinished tile walls after showering.
If you have children or pets, make sure they do not play in or around the refinished bathtub, as this can cause scratches. Also avoid bathing pets it the tub as this can also cause scratches.
You don't want to sit heavy objects on the refinished tub, as they can also scratch the finish. Also avoid stacking items on the edge of your bathtub.
The easiest way to clean your refinished bathtub is to just wipe it down with a wet rag after you are done in the shower. If you find that the finish has faded over a period of time, simply follow the refinishing steps again.
Also be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions for any cleaning products and avoid over cleaning/scrubbing.
What about bathmats and appliques?
No suction cup bathmats!
It is highly recommended you do not use any suction cup bathmats in a refinished bathtub. Any suction cup bathmat will eventually cause premature failure of the refinished bathtub. This is due to the suction cups causing too much pressure on the finish and holding moisture.
If you need a bathmat.
You can ask your refinishing company if they offer a no slip bottom option. Although this works well against slipping, it can sometimes have a "gritty" feeling due to the non-slip material being added directly to the refinishing product during the refinishing process. So, if you plan to sit on them when bathing this may not be a good option for you.
In that case we recommend purchasing a bathmat without suction cups. They have ones available for purchase that are specifically designed for refinished bathtubs.
No appliques on refinished surfaces!
Appliques in a sense are just like the suction cup bathmats. The difference with appliques though is that the use an adhesive backing to stick to the surface. This adhesive fails over time and as it does it causes premature failure of the finish. The appliques also harbor moisture which is also not good for your refinished bathtub.
So do yourself and favor and do not use the appliques or suction cup bathmats after having your bathtub refinished. This tip alone will help you avoid headaches in the future.
How long does the refinished tub last?
It depends on how well you care for it. The average lifespan of a refinished bathtub is around 10 years. Of course, this can vary depending on cleaning methods and product used to clean your tub. It can last just as long as a traditional new tub. A newly added acrylic ensemble will only last around 10 years before the finish begins to dull and discolor, while a refinished bathtub can easily out live that if cared for properly.
Refinishing is actually considered an inexpensive procedure when you take in account of how long it will last you. The average cost to refinish a bathtub is around $300-$500, depending on the size of your tub. It's recommended that you refinish your bathtub every 10 to 15 years, but this really depends on the method used to refinish your bathtub and how well it is taken care of. Be sure to follow your refinishing company's instructions for proper care and cleaning of your bathtub.
The bottom line.
- Don't use suction cup bathmats or appliques on refinished surface
- Clean with a cleaning product specifically designed for refinished surfaces that are recommended by the refinishing company.
- Avoid stacking objects on edge of tub. Have proper support for stack or remove from tub.
- Do not let children play in, around or near the tub without adult supervision.
- Periodically check refinished tub for damage.
- Refinish every 10 to 15 years or as needed.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or objects during cleaning.
- After showering, wipe down tub with a wet rag before it has time to dry.
- Rinse shampoo and soap from shower off of refinished tub when finished to avoid water stains or damage.
- Of course, also follow the instructions given by your specific refinishing company for best care of your refinished bathtub.
If you follow these basic tips, your refinished bathtub should stay looking great for a long time. As always, we want to thank you for reading and look forward to the next one!
