How to Remove Soap Scum from Any Surface

Soap scum, also called lime soap, is a chalky, white residue of dirt, soap, and mineral deposits. It forms when the fatty oil- or grease-based ingredients in soaps react with magnesium and calcium stearate minerals in the water. Hard water is especially prone to leaving behind soap scum due to its high mineral content.

Is soap scum a mold?

Soap scum isn’t a mold, nor is it harmful to your health. It does have a tendency to tarnish the appearance of whatever it’s glommed onto, so regular cleaning is a must if you want to keep your appliances looking their best.

Soap scum can cover any and all areas, from shower walls, doors, and tubs, to fixtures like shower heads and water taps. Since most of these surfaces are made from different materials, an ideal soap scum remover works on most, if not all of them.

Choose a non-abrasive and non-toxic cleaner. We’ve got a few favorite soap scum removers that are packed with plant-based ingredients — and they do an amazing job on all manner of surfaces! If you want to go the DIY route, there are several homemade cleaners you can whip up that work well, too.

Baking soda and cleaning vinegar are a dynamic duo that’s great for glass shower doors and fiberglass shower enclosures.

Step 1: Mix one part baking soda and two parts distilled white vinegar in a plastic bowl. Note that this concoction will fizz a bit, so don’t be alarmed!

Step 2: Once the mixture stops fizzing, dip a microfiber cloth into it and apply it to the soap scum.

Step 3: Let the cleaning mixture sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then wipe down it clean with a new cloth. Rinse carefully with water and dry thoroughly to prevent water stains.

This cleaning solution works well on soap scum that’s stuck to showers and sinks, plus metal attachments like faucets, walls, and doors.

Step 1: Whip up your cleaning solution in a spray bottle using equal parts liquid dishwashing detergent, distilled white vinegar, and water.

Step 2: Spray the solution on the problem areas and let it sit for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Once the solution has had time to work its magic, rinse it off with hot water. Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the areas completely and prevent water marks.