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Cleaning Soap and Scum: Soap Scum Removers That Work

Cleaning soap and scum buildup can be an extremely unpleasant cleaning chore. If the buildup has been allowed to grow for a while, the process of cleaning soap and scum may be quite time-consuming.. Here are some tips for the prevention of soap scum and some methods to remove it quickly and easily.

Soap scum buildup is caused by the ingredients in hard soaps (bars) and the dirt and minerals that are removed when showering and bathing. Soap is made from sodium or potassium fatty acids, and created through a process called saponification. The result is an emulsifying substance that can separate dirt and oil in water in order to remove these products from items such as clothing. One problem with soap is that it can be converted into the fatty acids that form soap scum. This is a particular problem with hard water. The mineral talc is also used in soaps. The talc helps the minerals adhere to the shower wall. Soon, a buildup of soap scum develops, and cleaning soap and scum is necessary.

A commercial product specifically designed for cleaning soap and scum is recommended. These products are chemically designed to break down the components of soap scum. It may be necessary to repeat the use of the product a few times to remove a heavy build up of soap scum. For cleaning soap and scum, the product must "sit" on the problem area. This works fine for the edges of a bathtub, for example, but can create a problem on shower walls. For vertical areas, a foaming product is best, as the foam will stay on the problem area longer than a liquid. (One such product is the Stanley Grime Guard Bathroom Cleaner.) Follow the directions on the label for how long to keep the soap scum remover on the problem area. All types of dried-on soap scum will require the use of a sponge or brush. The extra friction helps remove the buildup. If the dried on soap scum is thick, a stiff-bristled brush may be necessary for thoroughly cleaning soap and scum. If the soap scum buildup is on a flat surface, a razor blade is also very effective--and more dangerous, of course, so exercise caution to avoid cutting yourself or scratching the surface when using this tool. A standard sponge with a scouring side and soft side work for cleaning soap and scum that is not thick.

After removing dried on soap scum with a soap scum remover, regular maintenance and prevention is key. When shopping for products for cleaning soap and scum, look for a product that includes some type of barrier protection. These products create a wax-like barrier on your tub and shower wall to prevent soap scum from adhering to the surface. Be sure not to use wax on a surface that might become dangerously slippery when wet. A quick, two-step process can help prevent the build-up of dried on soap scum and will save time the next time you need to do this chore! First, after every shower or bath, use a squeegee or cloth to remove soap residue. Follow this by spraying the shower and tub with a product for cleaning soap and scum. Avoid spraying the bottom of the tub as this can make it very slippery. This daily routine will save a lot of time later. Cleaning soap and scum in this manner prevents the long-term buildup that can take hours to clean. With daily maintenance, a weekly, thorough clean with a soap scum remover should easily keep the problem in check.

If you have a serious problem that keeps recurring despite the above methods, hard water could be causing or contributing to the problem. Hard water has a high content of dissolved minerals that can build up on fixtures. When these minerals are combined with soap, soap scum is the result. Consider purchasing a water softener or water filter. The change in the quality of your water will help your soap and other cleaning products work more effectively, and will help save your back from excessive strain as you clean soap and scum.

Another contributor to soap scum buildup is the type of soap used. There are many varieties. Some types add to buildup more than others, demanding more time cleaning soap and scum. Try switching brands until you find one that creates less of a problem. If you have both hard water and cannot find a soap product that reduces buildup, consider switching to a liquid soap. These cause less of a problem of dried on soap scum as others. With forethought, cleaning soap and scum will not be such a recurring issue. You can spend your time on much more enjoyable things!

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