So you've got yourself a beautiful acrylic tub. Nice choice!

These tubs look amazing, feel comfortable, and can last for years. But here's the thing – acrylic needs special care. Use the wrong products, and you might end up with a dull, scratched, or damaged tub.

In this post, I’ll give you a rundown of what not to use on acrylic tubs to prevent any unnecessary damage.

#1 Abrasive Cleaners And Tools

This one’s a biggie. If you want to keep your acrylic tub looking shiny and smooth, stay far away from abrasive cleaners or scrubbers.

Your acrylic tub has a smooth, glossy surface that scratches easier than you might think. Things like steel wool, abrasive sponges, or rough scrub brushes might seem like they’re getting the job done, but they’re actually scratching up the surface.

Those micro-scratches don't just look bad – they create tiny grooves where dirt and grime can hide which makes your tub harder to clean in the future.

Plus, they dull that beautiful shine that made you fall in love with your acrylic tub in the first place.

So, instead of scrubbing hard, try using a soft cloth or sponge and go easy on the pressure.

#2 Harsh Chemicals

You should not use strong chemicals on acrylic tubs.

Acrylic is basically a type of plastic, and many strong chemicals can damage it beyond repair.

Bleach tops the list of chemicals to avoid. It can actually break down the acrylic surface over time. This can discolor and weaken the material.

The same goes for ammonia-based cleaners. They’re too harsh. They might cut through soap scum quickly, but they'll also cut through the protective finish on your tub.

You should also avoid solvents like:

Acetone
Turpentine
Lacquer thinner
Mineral spirits
Paint thinner

All these can severely damage the acrylic surface.

#3 Powdered Cleansers

Powdered cleansers are just as bad as abrasive cleaners.

They might work wonders on porcelain, but they're terrible for acrylic.

These products contain tiny abrasive particles. They're basically like rubbing fine sandpaper all over your tub! Even if the packaging claims they're "gentle" or "non-scratching," they're still too harsh for acrylic surfaces.

The scratches might not be visible right away. But over time, you'll notice your tub doesn't gleam anymore. It looks dull and aged before its time.

And once those scratches are there, they're almost impossible to remove without professional help.

#4 Aerosol Cleaners

You should not use aerosol cleaners on acrylic tubs either.

Many of them have solvents or chemicals that can react with acrylic which can lead to discoloration or fading. Plus, some aerosol sprays tend to leave behind a residue or a thin film that’s tough to clean off.

I've seen what happens when someone regularly uses these sprays on an acrylic tub. The surface becomes cloudy and loses its luster.

If you need a spray cleaner, look for pump sprays specifically formulated for acrylic or plastic surfaces. Or better yet, make your own by mixing a little dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle.

#5 Rubbing Alcohol

This one might surprise you, but rubbing alcohol is a no-go for acrylic tubs.

Many people reach for rubbing alcohol to disinfect surfaces or remove stubborn stains. But keep it far away from your acrylic tub!

Alcohol is a solvent that can actually dissolve acrylic over time.

Using alcohol might not show damage immediately. But with repeated use, you'll start to notice the surface becoming cloudy or developing tiny cracks.

Once this damage occurs, there's no easy fix.

The same warning applies to nail polish remover (acetone) and other household solvents. They might remove stains, but they'll also remove part of your tub's surface along with them!

#6 Foaming Or Long-Soak Cleaners

Those foaming bathroom cleaners that promise to do all the work while you relax? Or the ones that say to spray and leave for a few hours?

You should not use any of them on acrylic tubs.

The problem is the extended contact time. Many of these products contain chemicals that shouldn't stay on acrylic surfaces for long periods. They can seep into the acrylic and cause damage from within.

I made this mistake myself once. I left a "miracle" cleaner overnight, thinking more time equals cleaner tubs. Wrong! I woke up to find dull patches that never fully recovered their shine.

Quick application and thorough rinsing are important when cleaning acrylic. Don't let any cleaner sit for more than a few minutes.

#7 High Heat

Acrylic is sensitive to high temperatures. The material can actually warp or deform when exposed to temperatures above 180°F.

This means super hot water, steam cleaners, and heat guns are all no-gos for your acrylic tub.

Most household hot water won't reach damaging temperatures, but be careful with kettles or boiling water. And definitely skip those steam cleaners that are popular for "sanitizing" bathrooms. The concentrated hot steam can damage the acrylic surface permanently.

Even hair dryers on high heat settings can potentially cause issues if held too close to the surface for too long. It's just not worth the risk!

When drying, it’s better to air-dry your tub or gently wipe it with a soft cloth.

#8 Drain Cleaners

Drain cleaners are among the most caustic products in your home. They literally dissolve organic matter! So imagine what they can do to your acrylic tub if splashed or spilled.

These products contain strong chemicals like lye or sulfuric acid which can cause immediate and often irreparable damage to acrylic surfaces. They can discolor, etch, or even burn through acrylic.

And because they're so thick, they tend to cling to surfaces which gives them more time to do damage.

If you have a clogged drain in your acrylic tub, skip the liquid drain cleaner. Try a plunger, a drain snake, or call a plumber instead. Your tub will last much longer.

Bottom Line

Now you know what not to use on acrylic tubs!

In a nutshell, keeping your acrylic tub looking its best is all about being gentle.

Avoid anything abrasive, chemical-heavy, or too harsh. Stick with soft cloths, gentle cleaners, and a little bit of care. It’s a small price to pay for a tub that stays shiny, smooth, and functional for years to come.

Take care of your tub, and it’ll reward you with countless relaxing baths without the worry of damage.

What NOT To Use On Acrylic Tubs (8 Things To Avoid)