News Beat
Experts’ natural technique to remove soap scum from shower
Soap scum is one pesky solution that can lead to a dirty shower, particularly on the glass surrounding it.
Thankfully, experts have shared a natural solution to clearing it, and it doesn’t require any “aggressive scrubbing”.
What is soap scum?
As explained by Plumbworld, soap scum is “that stubborn, filmy residue that forms when soap mixes with minerals in hard water”.
The website adds: “Over time, it builds up on shower glass, tiles, and tubs, making your bathroom look dull and unclean.
“If left unchecked, it can even trap mildew and bacteria, turning a simple cleaning task into a much bigger problem.”
Experts’ natural technique to remove soap scum from shower
When looking to remove soap scum from your shower, experts have shared how the combinations of dish soap and white vinegar or baking soda mixed with water, can help.
Justin Carpenter is a residential house-cleaning and home-care expert and owner of Modern Maids.
He said: “Dish soap and white vinegar can be effective for breaking down soap scum, particularly when the buildup is still light. The key is giving the solution time to work.
“Most people spray and wipe immediately, but allowing it to sit for several minutes softens the residue and makes it much easier to remove without aggressive scrubbing.
“Baking soda mixed with water can also help, but it works differently. It doesn’t dissolve soap scum so much as loosen it through gentle abrasion.
“That makes it useful for spot cleaning on glass or tiles, but it should be used carefully, especially on glossy or delicate surfaces, as repeated scrubbing can cause dulling over time.”
James Roberts, Director at Sanctuary Bathrooms, concurred, adding: “When it comes to tackling soap scum naturally, white vinegar is one of the most effective and affordable options available.
“It’s non-toxic, eco-friendly and safe to use around the home – yet powerful enough to make removing troublesome soap scum an easy job.
“To remove this, simply spray undiluted white vinegar directly onto the affected area and leave it to work overnight. In the morning, for the best impact, you can scrub gently with a stiff toothbrush, then rinse with warm water and dry the area thoroughly.
“For tougher patches, repeat the process or alternate with a paste of baking soda and water.”
How to stop soap scum forming
Experts all agree that regularly cleaning and avoiding soap scum from forming in the first place is the best method for keeping your bathroom spotless.
Alex Rorrison-Leech, Cleaning Expert at Marigold, “Soap scum from shower products and limescale can build up on shower screens. Keeping on top of cleaning them is key to preventing them from appearing cloudy over time.
“Ideally, wipe down shower screens after every use with a microfibre cloth to prevent build up and make cleaning them faster and easier. Then give them a more thorough clean at least once a week.”
Mr Carpenter added: “From a professional cleaning perspective, what often makes the biggest difference is preparation and routine rather than stronger products.
“Pre-rinsing surfaces with warm water helps soften residue before any cleaner is applied, and using microfiber cloths instead of rough sponges lifts soap scum more effectively while protecting surfaces.
“Preventing buildup is far easier than removing it. Rinsing shower walls after use, using a squeegee on glass, and keeping the bathroom well ventilated all significantly reduce soap scum over time.
“Switching from bar soap to liquid body wash can also help, as bar soaps tend to leave more residue.
“Small habits done consistently are what keep soap scum from becoming a persistent problem.”
