What is the best way to remove the residue from those old rubber stick on anti-slip mats from your tub?

Question

The house I bought has an older tub that has the "residue" from where there were many stuck on rubber anti-slip mats on the bottom of the bath tub. The former owner removed the rubber mats, but what was left was the adhesive and the grime that clings to it. I've tried clorox, powder scrubbers and steel wool, you name it. Short of a GRINDER and or refinishing the tub, anyone have a tried and true way to remove this unsightly mess? Thanks!

Answer 1

Denatured alcohol..no razor needed to scratch your tub up with..let it set a bit and at most get a plastic putty knife and slightly peel it back..I am a 37 year experienced painter and we use this product to clean all water borne adheisives, which the tub stickers ahve on them..we also use it to clean latex paint out of carpets etc..it will not harm the finish on your tub..oops and goo gone will..

http://www.wmbarr.com/product.aspx?catid...

Answer 2

Try a product called "goo gone" let it soak, then re-apply and try a razor blade.

If that fails some heat will do the trick. Use a plumbers torch but don't get too close or you will damage the surface. A heat gun like the kind to strip paint might work well.

If those fail go to your local box hardware store and get some methelene clhoride from the paint department. THIS STUFF IS EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS AND A CARCINOGEN! Open the windows, get a respirator, wear gloves and eye protection. This is a VERY AGGRESSIVE solvent. If it does not get it then you need to recondition.

BTW...I had my tub reconditioned. I put in a new shower surround and hired a reputable tub reconditioner recommended by a plumber friend I trust. Part of the deal was the plumber came and removed the drain and hardware, they sprayed the tub and my plumber reinstalled the hardware. It took a couple of days total and cost about $200 or so. The tub looks great and the finish is holding up 5 years later and has a lifetime guarentee against peeling. I could not be happier.