How Removing the Caulk?


Use a caulk-removing tool and isopropyl alcohol to clear away the caulk. Apply the isopropyl alcohol to the caulk via a spray bottle or blot it on with an old washcloth—this softens the caulk and makes it easier to remove. Use your caulk-removing tool to scrape away as much of the caulk as you can. Wear rubber gloves while you work to protect your hands. You shouldn’t have to pay more than $10 for the caulk-removal tool.


Discard of the old caulk so it doesn’t get in your way. Keep a garbage bag nearby as you scrape off the caulk so you can easily put it to the side. You won’t be able to reuse it for anything, so throw it away with your regular trash. If you can’t get all of the caulk off, that’s okay—you’ll be sanding down the tub later and can work off any bits that are stuck then.


Remove the drain and the spout so they don’t get painted. Use a screwdriver to take out the drain and water spout fixtures, then set them to the side. If you’re having trouble getting a part out, try lubing it with some oil to loosen the screws. This is also a great time to give those fixtures a thorough cleaning. Submerge the fixtures in warm water and dish soap to loosen any hardened grime. Use an old toothbrush to scrub away any remaining dirt.


Allow the lemon juice to sit for 10-20 minutes. Once you’ve given the shower a thorough scrubbing, give the lemon juice a little time to work its magic. Though mild, the acids that the juice contains will usually be enough to deal with the majority of commonplace stains. The longer you let the juice soak, the better the end result will be.


Lemon juice is especially useful for dissolving stains that result from exposure to hard water or chemicals. Citric acid will not only clean and disinfect, it will also help brighten up the acrylic and restore it to its original luster.