The lining of your bath will be coated with vitreous enamel. Enamel has many of the qualities of glass. It is tough and easy to clean, but even glass can be scratched with really abrasive materials. This article outlines how you go about cleaning your cast iron bath to protect your investment and keep it looking at its best.

Firstly – What NOT to use

Use the wrong products, you will degrade the surface, and maybe damage it permanently, so let's begin by listing what NOT to use. Abrasive cleaners such as scouring powders and steel wool should all be avoided altogether. These harsh products can damage the finish. Over time damaged enamel collects dirt, grime and hard-water deposits, all of which compound the problem. Deep scratches may eventually require refinishing – so avoid scuffing your bath as you clean it. It is also unwise to use acidic products on the enamel surface of a Cast Iron Bath. Using products ranging from vinegar to specialised bathroom cleaning products - which some people would use for an acrylic bath - wear away the enamel.  This degradation of the lining makes it feel unpleasant to the touch and often discolours it. And now for what you should use…

Little and often

It is best practise to quickly clean and dry the bath down after bathing. Tackling soap build up with a damp cloth while the bath is still warm stops soap-ring becoming a problem. And drying the bath after use will improve the chances of it staying mould and mildew free in the long term. Stop your taps dripping and remove your plug. This will prevent staining from persistent dripping or standing water. A dripping tap will cause discoloration of your bath and a build up of lime scale.

Start gently on stains

One good way to clean your cast iron bath without doing any harm to the enamel surface is to fill the bath with warm water and then add washing up liquid to it; then allow the bath to soak in the diluted mixture for 30 minutes. This type of product will not corrode the inner surface of the bath nor should it stain as some cleaning products might. Empty the bath and use a dry, non abrasive cloth to wipe it down, leaving it dry and clean. Another thing to consider is a Magic Dirt Eraser. Available online or from most supermarkets these just use water and elbow grease and so do very little damage to the tub. A great environmentally friendly option. However you clean your bath we home you enjoy owning the fabulous lifestyle statement that is a cast iron bath. For a wide range of free standing, roll top cast iron baths with free UK delivery, visit www.castironbath.co.uk.