How to Wash Clothes in a Bathtub Without Ruining Your Tub

August 25, 2025

Contents
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Clothes in a Bathtub Safely
Special Tips for Washing Delicates in a Bathtub
How Washing Clothes Affects Different Types of Bathtubs
Can You Use Toiletries to Wash Clothes Without Damaging the Tub?
Rinse and Dry Without Leaving a Mess
Extra Precautions to Protect Your Bathtub
What Not to Wash in a Bathtub
Pros and Cons of Washing Clothes in a Bathtub (While Protecting It)
Best Bathtub Types for Washing Clothes
How to Wash Clothes in Bathtub - Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts: Clean Clothes, Clean Tub

Washing clothes in a bathtub can be a convenient and eco-friendly alternative when a washing machine isn’t available. Whether you live in a small apartment, RV, or are temporarily without a washer, it’s important to protect both your clothes and your bathtub. This guide explains how to wash clothes in a bathtub the right way—without damaging the surface, causing residue buildup, or scratching the finish.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

Before hand-washing your clothes, gather supplies that are gentle on fabrics and safe for your tub's finish. Avoid using abrasive tools or harsh cleaners that can scratch or dull the bathtub surface.

Tools and Supplies

Laundry detergent (gentle, biodegradable preferred)
Castile soap or bar laundry soap (as alternatives)
Mild shampoo (for emergencies only)
Stain remover or pre-treatment spray
Rubber gloves (optional for hand protection)
Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush (no hard-bristled scrubbing pads)
Clean, dry towels

Check and Clean the Bathtub

Make sure your tub is free of dirt, hair, and any chemical residues. Do not use bleach or abrasive cleaners right before washing clothes, as they can linger on the surface and damage fabrics.

Safe Tub Cleaning Tip:

Mix equal parts vinegar and water
Add a sprinkle of baking soda
Gently scrub with a soft sponge, then rinse thoroughly

Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Clothes in a Bathtub Safely

Follow these steps to hand-wash laundry while keeping your tub in great shape:

Step 1: Sort Your Laundry

Separate clothes by:

Color: Whites, darks, colors
Fabric type: Delicates (silk, lace), heavy fabrics (towels, denim)

This prevents color bleeding and fabric damage.

Step 2: Read Clothing Labels

Always check for water temperature and washing instructions to avoid damage to both clothes and your tub.

Step 3: Pre-Treat Stains

Apply pre-treatment spray or a dab of detergent on stains. Rub gently using your fingers or a soft toothbrush to avoid scratching the tub surface.

Step 4: Fill the Tub Safely

Use lukewarm water, unless labels say otherwise
For a small load, fill just 3–5 inches deep
Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of gentle detergent
Swirl with your hand to dissolve—avoid vigorous mixing with tools that could scratch the tub

Step 5: Submerge and Soak the Clothes

Gently press clothes into the water. Allow them to soak for 15–30 minutes depending on the level of dirt.

Step 6: Agitate the Clothes Carefully

Use your hands to swish and knead the fabric
Avoid stomping or using plungers unless covered in soft cloth
Keep garments away from the tub sides to prevent friction damage

Step 7: Drain and Rinse

Drain soapy water completely
Fill with clean water and rinse by hand
Repeat until water runs clear—usually 2–3 rinses

Step 8: Squeeze and Dry

Gently squeeze out excess water (don’t wring)
Roll in a clean towel to absorb moisture
Air dry in a well-ventilated area

Special Tips for Washing Delicates in a Bathtub

Delicate fabrics like silk, lace, and wool need extra care:

Use cold or lukewarm water
Choose mild detergent or baby shampoo
Soak for 5–10 minutes only
Gently press water through the fabric
Avoid contact with tub edges
Rinse and lay flat to dry

How Washing Clothes Affects Different Types of Bathtubs

Not all bathtubs are made the same—and some materials are more vulnerable to scratching, staining, or surface wear during hand-washing laundry. Here's a look at how different bathtub types respond to regular use as makeshift laundry stations:

Acrylic Bathtubs

Surface: acrylic bathtubs are soft, non-porous, and warm to the touch.
Impact of Washing: Prone to light scratching or dulling if abrasive brushes or harsh soaps are used. Soap scum and detergent residue can also build up over time.
How to Protect: Use gentle detergents, soft cloths or hands for scrubbing, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid bleach or rough sponges.

Fiberglass Bathtubs

Surface: Lightweight and budget-friendly, but thin and more porous.
Impact of Washing: Can develop cracks, discoloration, and wear quickly with frequent use. Easily stained by colored detergents or soiled water.
How to Protect: Limit laundry use to emergencies. Line the bottom with a clean towel before starting and avoid heavy-duty scrubbing.

Porcelain-Enameled Cast Iron or Steel Tubs

Surface: Very hard and durable, but can chip if hit with heavy objects.
Impact of Washing: Generally withstands laundry well but may stain from dyes or rust if not cleaned after use.
How to Protect: Rinse immediately after washing clothes. Avoid dropping buttons or zippers directly on the surface to prevent chips.

Stone or Solid Surface Tubs (e.g., AquateX™)

Surface: AquateX™ are high-end, matte finishes that are elegant but sensitive to residue and scratches.
Impact of Washing: Can absorb staining agents if not sealed properly. Surface may lose luster with repeated soap exposure.
How to Protect: Always use gentle, pH-neutral cleaners. Avoid any scrubbing tools or laundry with metal accessories.

Tip: Regardless of your tub type, always rinse and wipe down your bathtub after laundry sessions to prevent buildup, discoloration, and long-term damage.

Can You Use Toiletries to Wash Clothes Without Damaging the Tub?

In emergencies, yes—but carefully:

Body Wash

Use unscented, moisturizer-free body wash
Avoid products with exfoliants (can leave gritty residue)

Shampoo

Baby shampoo or sulfate-free options only
Mix well in water to prevent sticky residue
Never use 2-in-1 products or anything with heavy oils

Tub Tip: Always rinse the tub well after using toiletries to prevent residue buildup or slipperiness.

Rinse and Dry Without Leaving a Mess

After washing your clothes, it’s important to rinse and dry them properly without causing damage to your bathtub. Excess soap, standing water, or wet clothes left on tub surfaces can lead to stains, mildew, or surface wear. Follow these steps to finish your laundry process cleanly and safely.

Rinse

Drain all soapy water from the tub completely.
Refill with clean, cool water and gently agitate the clothes.
Repeat the rinse 2–3 times until the water runs clear.
Don’t leave standing water in the tub—it can cause stains or mildew buildup.

Dry

Towel Roll Method: Place the damp item on a clean towel, roll it up, and press down to absorb excess water.
Air Dry: Hang clothes on a drying rack, shower rod, or clothesline in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid: Hanging wet clothes directly on the tub’s edges, which can leave moisture marks or promote mold growth.

Extra Precautions to Protect Your Bathtub

Avoid bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals
No steel wool, scouring pads, or stiff brushes
Clean tub after each wash to avoid soap scum or fabric lint buildup
Use a rubber mat if you need extra protection

What Not to Wash in a Bathtub

Dry-clean-only garments
Items with heavy dyes (may stain tub)
Structured clothing with padding or boning
Items with rust-prone parts like metal zippers

Pros and Cons of Washing Clothes in a Bathtub (While Protecting It)

Washing clothes in a bathtub can be a smart workaround, especially when you're short on laundry facilities—but it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks, especially if you want to avoid damaging your tub in the process.

Pros:

No washing machine needed
Saves energy and water
Safe for delicates
Budget-friendly

Cons:

Time- and labor-intensive
Tub can stain or scratch if not careful
Requires rinsing and cleanup afterward

Best Bathtub Types for Washing Clothes

Not all bathtubs are equal when it comes to hand-washing laundry. Some offer more space, better ergonomics, or features that make the process less messy and more efficient. Here's how different bathtub types can affect your experience:

Freestanding Bathtubs

Why it's useful: Freestanding Bathtubs are spacious and accessible from all sides, freestanding tubs give you room to move around and scrub without bumping into walls.
Best for: Larger laundry loads, bed linens, or when you want full freedom of movement.

Soaking Bathtubs

Why it's useful: Soaking Bathtubs hold more water, allowing full submersion for soaking dirty or stained clothes.
Best for: Long soaks and loosening set-in stains with minimal effort.

Japanese Bathtubs

Why it's useful: Japanese Bathtubs are compact but deep, making them great for small spaces while still allowing vertical soaking.
Best for: Small apartments or washing small batches like delicates and undergarments.

Clawfoot Bathtubs

Why it's useful: Clawfoot Bathtubs are stylish and typically deeper than modern built-ins, with plenty of space underneath for drainage or placing baskets.
Best for: Those who want classic charm while doing functional laundry tasks.

Oval Freestanding Bathtubs

Why it's useful: The ergonomic shape of Oval Freestanding Bathtubs reduces strain on your arms and back while scrubbing.
Best for: Comfort-focused laundry routines.

Air Jetted & Water-Jetted Bathtubs

Why it’s not ideal: The jets and internal components of Air Jetted & Water-Jetted Bathtubs can trap fabric threads or detergent residue.
Caution: If used, ensure jets are off and cleaned immediately afterward to avoid buildup.

Drop-In Bathtubs

Why it's useful: Drop-In Bathtubs often come with ledges that can be helpful for resting basins, soap trays, or laundry tools.
Best for: Controlled environments where water splashing needs to be minimal.

Tip: No matter which tub you use, protect it with the right accessories:

Use a bathtub tray to hold supplies
Add a headrest for comfort while kneeling
Finish with a good rinse and dry using bath rugs and mats nearby for safety

How to Wash Clothes in Bathtub - Frequently Asked Questions

Can washing clothes in a tub cause damage?

Only if you use abrasive tools, harsh chemicals, or let fabrics with dyes bleed into the surface.

How can I prevent soap scum buildup?

Always rinse the tub thoroughly after each wash. A vinegar-water rinse helps remove residue.

Should I use a laundry plunger?

If you do, cover the base with a clean cloth or buy a tub-safe model.

Can I do laundry stripping in the bathtub safely?

Yes, but limit it to durable fabrics and rinsethoroughly. Avoid contact between high-pH solutions and colored or delicate items.

Final Thoughts: Clean Clothes, Clean Tub

Washing clothes in your bathtub is a great backup option, but it requires care to avoid damaging the tub surface. By using gentle products, safe tools, and proper rinsing techniques, you can keep both your clothes and your bathtub looking fresh. Clean clothes and a sparkling tub? Yes, you can have both.

How tos,

Practical suggestions