How To Clean Bathtub Scum Naturally

March 7, 2018

How to Naturally Get Rid of Soap Scum

Let's talk about soap scum. You know what it is and I'm guessing it frustrates you too! I'm all about prevention but before we talk about the best way to keep it away, let's talk about some natural ways to get rid of soap scum. I'm going to start with the simplest method and solution and work my way through other methods. Depending on your degree of scum, start at the top and see what works for you.

SOLUTION 1
MICROFIBER CLEANING CLOTH – start with either a wet shower or a barely wet microfiber cloth and scrub. Rinse and repeat if necessary.

SOLUTION 2
WHITE VINEGAR – mix together a 50:50 water to vinegar solution and put in a spray bottle. Spray over surface and scrub with a scrub brush or sponge. Add a drop or two of tea tree oil and/or peppermint essential oil to up the cleaning power. Rinse and repeat if necessary.

SOLUTION 3
BORAX +WATER – Mix 1/4 to 1/2 cup of Borax with 2 cups of hot water in a spray bottle. This is a one-time use cleaner, do not store this solution in a spray bottle – the Borax will harden and stick in your sprayer. Shake and spray surfaces thoroughly. Let it sit for up to 15 minutes and use a scrub brush to clean. Rinse and wipe dry.

PREVENTION

USE VEGETABLE-BASED SOAP
Once your shower is clean, you might want to switch to a natural, vegetable-based soap in the shower going forward. A natural soap, like castile soap will rinse clean and not leave the soap scummy build-up that a petroleum or animal-fat based soap will leave.

DAILY SHOWER CLEANER SPRAY
Once your shower is clean, I recommend using a daily shower spray to keep the soap scum and mildew away and to make it easier to clean. Use a squeegee at the end of your shower to remove excess water and to prevent water spots.

Peppermint Daily Shower Cleaner Spray
1/2 cup vodka (you can use rubbing alcohol but I find that the vodka works better in this recipe)
1 cup water
10 drops peppermint essential oil
glass spray bottle

Mix and store in a spray bottle. Spray shower or tub daily after showering has occurred. No rinse needed.

Do you struggle with soap scum? What have you found that works?