Grandma’s Trick to Clean the Bathtub: Timeless and Effective

There’s something comforting about the wisdom passed down through generations, especially when it comes to household tips and tricks. One such gem is Grandma’s trick to clean the bathtub. With her simple, effective, and budget-friendly method, you can achieve a sparkling clean bathtub without resorting to harsh chemicals. Here’s how to harness the power of Grandma’s tried-and-true cleaning recipe.

Ingredients:

1 cup baking soda
1 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon liquid dish soap (preferably Dawn)
A few drops of essential oil (optional, for a pleasant scent)
A sponge or scrub brush
A spray bottle

Instructions:

Create the Cleaning Paste:
- Combine the baking soda and liquid dish soap in a bowl, mixing them into a thick paste. The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive to help scrub away grime, while the dish soap cuts through soap scum and grease.
Apply the Paste:
- Use a sponge or scrub brush to apply the paste generously to the bathtub’s surface. Pay special attention to areas with visible stains or buildup, such as the tub bottom, sides, and around the drain.
Let It Sit:
- Allow the paste to sit for 15-20 minutes. This resting period gives the mixture time to break down tough stains and grime.
Spray with Vinegar:
- Pour the white vinegar into a spray bottle. After the paste has sat, spray the entire surface of the bathtub with vinegar. The vinegar will react with the baking soda, creating a fizzing and bubbling action that helps lift and dissolve stubborn dirt and stains.
Scrub the Tub:
- Use the sponge or scrub brush to scrub the bathtub thoroughly. The fizzy reaction from the vinegar and baking soda will aid in loosening and removing the grime. Focus on any particularly stubborn spots for a deep clean.
Rinse Thoroughly:
- Once the bathtub is scrubbed clean, rinse it thoroughly with warm water. Ensure all the baking soda and vinegar residue is washed away, leaving the tub clean and shiny.
Optional Scent Boost:

For a pleasant fragrance, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the vinegar before spraying. Popular choices include lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus, which leave a fresh, clean scent in your bathroom.