Around 11:00 last night, I decided it wise to scrub the bathtub. It needed it really bad, but worse was the un-scrubbable mildew that collects on the caulk that lines the edge of the tub. Eeewww! Disgusting. We have no ventilation in that bathroom, hence the mildew, and for some reason, it just can't be removed from the caulk. So every so often, it's necessary to scrape away the old caulk, clean it well, and re-caulk. Last night I was on a mission! I tore down the shower curtain and liner along with the rubber bath mat and heaved them into the washing machine. I removed all the soap & shampoo, scrunchies, and other tub paraphenelia and was ready to get down to business. One trip to my cleaning supply closet though, made my heart sink. Darnit. I forgot to put tub cleaner on the list last time I used it, and ran out. Okay, I'll just use Comet...all gone. Dang! Nothing appropriate for scouring away mildew and soap scum. Now what?! I just tore apart the bathroom. And I have my caulk scraping tools ready and waiting.
I googled homemade cleaners and decided to try a little vinegar and baking soda. OMG!!!! It's a miracle. That stuff either used separately or later as a paste (I did it both ways) was AMAZING!! As a matter of fact, I should be embarassed to admit...there has been a black area of stains on the outside edge of the old porcelain tub since we moved here...looked just like hair dye drippings (not that I'd know anything about that.) I've tried everything from bleach, to comet, to Scrubbing Bubbles, and several generic tub & tile cleaners along the way and have never been able to remove it. The vinegar and baking soda literally took it off in one swipe. (Are you hearing the choirs of heaven singing too?!) Yep, nothing short of miraculous. Praise God!!!
I am certain to never use anything else again...unless perhaps I forget to put this on my list too. (oops.)
So, anyone else have any super-incredible cleaning supply must-haves?! (Cause I'm slow to catch on that simple is sometimes better.)
