The Best Way to Clean a Refinished Bathtub (Without Damaging It!)

August 7, 2025

Keeping your bathtub clean is essential for maintaining a beautiful bathroom, but when it comes to refinished bathtubs, using the wrong cleaning products or tools can actually do more harm than good. At Glaze-Tec Bathtub Refinishing, we specialize in giving bathtubs new life—and we want to help you keep that new, glossy finish looking flawless for years to come.



In this post, we’ll walk you through the do’s and don’ts of cleaning a refinished tub, including which cleaners to use, what to avoid, and some quick tips to keep your tub sparkling without compromising the refinished surface.


What to Use: Gentle Yet Effective Cleaners

After your bathtub has been refinished, the surface becomes more delicate than traditional porcelain or enamel. The key to long-term shine is gentle cleaning products and soft materials.



We recommend using:

  • Scrubbing Bubbles – This popular foaming cleaner is non-abrasive, easy to use, and very effective at removing soap scum and residue.
  • Lysol Tub & Tile Cleaner – Another safe and effective choice, Lysol's tub and tile formula is great for regular cleaning without scratching or dulling the surface.
  • A soft washcloth – When applying these cleaners, use a soft washcloth or sponge (no scrubbers!) to gently wipe down the tub.

These cleaners will help lift grime, soap scum, and mildew without damaging the protective glaze that gives your tub its shine.


What to Avoid: The Enemies of Refinished Surfaces

Unfortunately, many common household cleaners and tools can strip or dull the refinished surface, leaving it looking worn out and aged before its time. It’s important to avoid anything that is abrasive or corrosive.


NEVER use the following on a refinished bathtub:

  • Abrasive powders like Comet
  • Magic Erasers
  • Soft Scrub or other gritty pastes
  • Scotch-Brite or similar scrubbing pads
  • Steel wool or metal brushes
  • Bleach or harsh chemicals


These products can scratch, etch, or chemically burn the topcoat of your refinished tub. Not only will that affect the appearance, but it may also make it more difficult to clean in the future—and even reduce the lifespan of the finish.


Gentle Cleaning Tips for Long-Lasting Shine

Want your refinished tub to look brand new for years? Follow these simple cleaning and maintenance tips:



  • Clean regularly. A quick wipe-down once or twice a week goes a long way toward preventing buildup.
  • Rinse thoroughly. After applying any cleaner, be sure to rinse with warm water to remove all residue.
  • Dry the surface. After rinsing, dry the tub with a soft towel to prevent water spots or mildew.
  • Avoid bathmats with suction cups. These can trap moisture and damage the refinished surface over time.
  • Don’t leave bottles on the edge. Store shampoos and soaps in a caddy instead of directly on the tub rim to avoid discoloration or sticky residue.


Why Proper Care Matters

A professional bathtub refinishing from Glaze-Tec is an investment in your home—and proper care is the best way to protect that investment. With the right cleaning products and just a bit of regular maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful, glossy bathtub for many years without chips, stains, or dullness.

Questions? We’re Here to Help!

If you're unsure about a particular cleaning product or have questions about maintaining your refinished tub, don't hesitate to reach out.


At Glaze-Tec Bathtub Refinishing, we're always happy to offer expert advice so you can get the most out of your refinished surfaces.


Visit www.glazetec.com or give us a call today—we’re here to keep your bathroom looking its best!


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