How can I clean or restore discolored modular bathtub?

last year

I have a Kohler modular bathtub/shower in which the tub is discolored or sort of "graying." I clean the tub regularly with spray bathroom cleaner and I have a water softener. I attached a pic, but it really doesn't show the discoloration very well. The tub was rather bright white when it was new, about six years ago. Thanks.

Featured Answer

jimmy w
Original Author

last year

This is the best answer. My cleaner is safe for acrylic, although several years of gentle cleaning and daily use probably degraded the finish. I'll probably replace it with genuine tile/ceramic. I think all of these modular units that are hawked endlessly on tv basically are cheap junk.

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Comments (11)

PRO
Minardi
last year
The harsh chemicals have damaged it and affected the chemical makeup of the acrylic. It needs to be replaced. You can get it "refinished" but that is expensive and temporary.
jimmy w
Original Author
last year
Thanks, but a typical bleach-free bathroom cleaner isn't a harsh chemical cleaner.
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A Mat
last year
What did you use?

You mentioned a water softener, what kind: Brand, Model.
jimmy w
Original Author
last year
I use Clorox bleach-free bathroom cleaner. The softener appears to be a generic unit, which was installed before I bought my home 5 years ago. It's the typical setup that uses a bin of salt. I use Morton pellets.
A Mat
last year
Well, I googled:, your bleach free, hydrogen peroxide (?) cleaner is known to discloror acrylic surfaces.
jimmy w
Original Author
last year
Well so did I, and it's considered safe, although the cleaners with bleach are not. It doesn't contain peroxide.
A Mat
last year
Safe? Maybe for people, but you claim the cleaner discolored your enclosure.

Good luck with finding a genie.
jimmy w
Original Author
last year
I didn't say the cleaner discolored it I don't know how it became discolored. Try reading what I wrote.
PRO
beesneeds
last year
I would think a combination of the cleaner(s) used, the scrubbing(if you do), the use of regular hygiene chemicals, and just general use all came together to make the tub look used. It's kind of hard to tell in the pic, but the bottom of the tub looks matte. If it came shiny, and is now matte, then it has become a bit damaged or used over the years.

If you want it restored, you can pay to have it done. As mentioned, it isn't a long lasting permanent fix. If you are DYI savvy, you could try a product to give it a coating- but those can be kind of expensive and results can vary. I've seen some pretty good ones, and a lot of almost or not quite ones. You can have it replaced- make sure to follow manufacturers instructions on use and care. Or you can live with how it is.

If you live with it, maybe try switching to the Kohler cleaner. It does have a different chemical formula than the Clorox cleaner. It might not restore, but if the current cleaner is adding to the issue.. using the Kohler cleaner at least might not make it worse.
jimmy w thanked beesneeds
Kendrah
last year
Yep, they are cheap stuff, wear easily. Even the most benign cleaners can impact a surface as can your daily soap and shampoo. If you are going to switch to some kind of cast iron or other tub, just let this be for now.