I used to dread cleaning my shower because of the stubborn soap scum that accumulated on the walls and doors. No matter how much I scrubbed, it just wouldn’t go away completely. However, over time I’ve discovered some super effective methods to get rid of soap scum quickly and easily.
Why Soap Scum Forms
Soap scum is that dull, whitish film that builds up in your shower over time. It’s caused by a chemical reaction when the minerals in water come into contact with soap residues. Hard water contains high amounts of calcium and magnesium, which bind with the fats in soap to create that filmy deposit.
Some factors that can make the problem worse:
- Hard water – Areas with high mineral content
- Using bar soap – Creates more residue than liquid soap
- Infrequent cleaning – Allows buildup over time
Soap scum not only looks bad, but it can also make your shower doors and walls harder to keep clean. Luckily, with the right techniques, you can banish that nasty scum in no time.
Daily Preventative Measures
Taking a few minor steps each day can help prevent soap scum from becoming unmanageable:
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Use a squeegee – Wipe down the walls and doors after each shower to remove excess water and soap. This simple habit keeps residue from accumulating.
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Rinse soap off surfaces – Make sure to rinse soap off walls, doors, and your body before turning the water off. Leaving soap on surfaces is asking for scum.
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Spray with vinegar – Keep a spray bottle of undiluted white vinegar in your shower. Mist the walls and doors after use to prevent mineral deposits.
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Use liquid soap – Bar soap tends to create more scum. Switch to body wash or liquid hand soap when possible.
Powerful Ingredients for Removing Existing Scum
If you’re dealing with layers of difficult, built-up soap scum, you’ll need to use more potent ingredients to dissolve it away. Here are some of the most effective options:
Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural and safe choice that works incredibly well on existing soap scum. Spray full-strength white vinegar directly onto the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or cloth. The acids in vinegar will dissolve the scum with ease. It can be used on fiberglass, acrylic, or tile surfaces.
Baking Soda
For a gentle abrasive scrub, make a paste with baking soda and water. Use an old toothbrush or scrubbing brush to work the paste into stubborn scum. Let it sit briefly before rinsing. The baking soda will help lift residue without harsh chemicals.
Ammonia
Ammonia is excellent for cutting through layers of accumulated soap scum. Wear gloves and fill a spray bottle with 1 part clear ammonia to 2 parts warm water. Spritz onto surfaces, let sit 1-2 minutes, then scrub with a sponge. Rinse thoroughly. Never mix ammonia with other cleaners!
Hard Water Remover
Products made to remove hard water deposits, like Lime-A-Way or CLR, work wonders on soap scum buildup. Apply to affected areas, wait 5 minutes or so, then wipe away. Use as directed on the packaging.
Deep Cleaning Methods
For a more thorough deep cleaning session to remove all traces of soap scum, try one of these intensive methods:
Magic Eraser
These melamine cleaning pads work brilliantly to scrub away all sorts of gunk, soap scum included. Get the shower walls and doors wet, then rub the eraser over them using mild pressure. Rinse and squeegee dry when finished.
Steam Cleaner
A handheld steam cleaner uses the power of steam to melt away soap scum and sterilize surfaces. Work in sections for best results. Wipe with a microfiber cloth and buff dry. Be cautious not to burn yourself with the steam!
Baking Soda Paste + Vinegar
For super stubborn scum that needs heavy-duty cleaning, make a thick paste with baking soda and just a small amount of water. Cover the scum with the paste and let sit. After 10-20 minutes, spray the paste with vinegar. The fizzing reaction helps break down the gunk. Scrub and rinse thoroughly.
Preventing Recurrence
Once you’ve conquered that nasty soap scum, keep it from coming back using these tips:
- Squeegee the shower after every use
- Spray with vinegar after showers
- Use a shower spray cleaner regularly
- Consider installing a water softener system
- Switch to liquid bath products
- Wipe down surfaces when you notice new scum developing
Staying on top of soap scum prevention allows you to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your fresh, clean shower! With the right techniques and some daily maintenance, you can banish soap scum quickly and keep it from ruining your beautiful bathroom.
