Open Accessibility Menu
Hide
DIY

How To Clean Soap Scum In Tubs And Showers

Since preventing soap scum build up is a lot easier than cleaning it, wipe shower walls and doors after every use with a microfiber cloth. If it's too late for prevention, use a degreasing agent and lots of elbow grease.

Things You'll Need

  • Strong Alkaline or Soap Scum Remover
  • Dishwasher Detergent
  • Water
  • Stiff Scrub Brush or White, Nylon-Backed Scrub Sponge

How To Do It

  1. Get a good alkaline soap scum remover at a janitorial supply store or dissolve a handful of automatic dishwasher detergent in a bucket of warm water.
  2. Immediately after a shower when the walls are wet, cover the affected area completely and let your cleaning solution soak for at least 15 minutes.
  3. After soaking, use a stiff scrub brush or a white, nylon-backed scrub sponge to clean the walls. You may need to soak and scrub a couple of times to get rid of all the build-up.
  4. Rinse well with clear water.

Tip

For tile walls or frosted shower doors, apply a light coating of lemon oil periodically to help prevent build-up. For a porcelain tub, apply a light coat of boat or car wax to the sides (never the bottom) of the tub.

Recommended Further Reading