How To Get Soap Scum Off Bathtub

How to Get Soap Scum Off Bathtub: A Step-by-Step Guide

Soap scum is a common problem in bathrooms, leaving bathtubs looking dingy and unclean. It is a combination of minerals, body oils, and soap residue that builds up over time, creating a stubborn film that can be difficult to remove. If you're struggling with soap scum in your bathtub, follow these simple steps to get rid of it and restore your tub to its sparkling best:

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

White vinegar or distilled white vinegar
Baking soda
Dishwashing liquid
Spray bottle
Sponge or non-abrasive scrubber
Rubber gloves (optional)
Bucket or bowl
Old toothbrush (optional)

Step 2: Prepare the Bathtub

Start by thoroughly rinsing the bathtub with warm water to remove any loose dirt or debris. If you have a detachable showerhead, use it to rinse the tub, as the water pressure can help loosen the soap scum.

Step 3: Apply White Vinegar

Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar or distilled white vinegar. Spray the vinegar liberally all over the soap scum, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Allow the vinegar to sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for stubborn soap scum.

Step 4: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Once the vinegar has had time to work, sprinkle baking soda generously over the soap scum. The baking soda will react with the vinegar, creating a fizzing action that helps break down the soap scum.

Step 5: Scrub the Bathtub

Using a sponge or non-abrasive scrubber, scrub the bathtub in a circular motion. Apply extra pressure to areas with heavy soap scum buildup. If you have an old toothbrush, you can use it to get into tight corners and crevices.

Step 6: Rinse the Bathtub

Rinse the bathtub thoroughly with warm water until all the vinegar, baking soda, and soap scum are washed away. Make sure to rinse the bathtub well to avoid any residue being left behind.

Step 7: Apply Dishwashing Liquid (Optional)

For extra cleaning power, you can apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid to the sponge or scrubber and scrub the bathtub again. This will help remove any remaining soap scum or residue.

Step 8: Rinse the Bathtub Again

Rinse the bathtub thoroughly with warm water a second time to remove any dishwashing liquid residue.

Step 9: Dry the Bathtub

Use a clean towel or microfiber cloth to dry the bathtub thoroughly. This will help prevent new soap scum from forming.

Step 10: Regular Cleaning

To prevent soap scum buildup in the future, make a habit of cleaning your bathtub regularly. After each use, rinse the bathtub with warm water and wipe it down with a damp cloth. You can also use a mild bathroom cleaner once a week to keep the bathtub sparkling clean. By following these steps, you can easily get rid of soap scum in your bathtub and keep it clean and fresh for years to come.