5 TIPS FOR
REMOVING SCUM FROM
GLASS SHOWER DOORS
Soap scum is the nemesis
of everyone who enjoys
the beauty of clean, clear glass.
You may be one of the best
housekeepers in the world
and still find yourself dealing
with soap residue.
This frustrating substance
is the result of fats and waxes
in the soap, mixing with minerals
in the water, to make
a sticky film.
Soap residue buildup is most
noticeable on clear surfaces
such as the shower doors,
but it can also exist in the
bathtub and sinks.
Removing soap scum takes
a combination of determination
and elbow grease.
Adding these tips to your
cleaning routine will leave
your shower sparkling clean.
Use a Vinegar-Based
Solution
#1
Vinegar is acidic enough to cut
through soap scum but still
gentle enough to prevent
damage to the glass.
Mix one part vinegar to one part
warm water in a spray bottle.
For extra cleaning power,
add a couple tablespoons
of dish soap.
Then, just spray the shower walls
and door down and walk away.
Leave the solution sitting for about
20 minutes.
After that, use a microfiber cloth
or soft sponge to scrub everything
down before you rinse with water.
Boost Cleaning
Power With
Baking Soda
#2
Thick soap scum might require
a little extra work.
Mixing baking soda with vinegar
to create a paste is one way
to break through a thicker layer
of soap residue.
Simply rub this mixture on
and let it sit, just like you would
the vinegar solution.
When you’re ready to scrub,
use a gentle touch.
Baking soda is slightly abrasive,
which is good for getting through
the scum.
Just don’t rub so hard that you
leave scratches in the glass.
Be Prepared
to Repeat
the Process
#3
If there is a large amount of soap
scum, then you may need to work
through several layers, since the
cleaner might not be able to
penetrate through all of the layers
at once.
Letting the solution sit on the
surface for a few minutes helps
it to soak in deeper, but that might
not be enough.
If you still see some scum after you
rinse, just repeat the process.
It takes time, but you will
successfully clear the scum away.
Prevent Soap Scum
From Building Up
#4
Once you’ve gotten your shower
doors sparkling clean, you want
to keep them that way.
Clearing soap off of the shower
walls is easier when it is wet.
You can keep a spray bottle of your
preferred cleaner nearby for
frequent cleanings after you take
a shower.
Bonus tip: Drying the shower
with a squeegee every time also
prevents build up.
Use a Different
Type of Soap
#5
Certain types of soap seem to
create more film than others.
If possible, switch to a liquid soap
or body wash.
These are more diluted than bar
soap, which means that they’ll
rinse away more easily.
If you use a heavy conditioner
or other oily products,
then consider washing the walls
and door down when you are done.
Allowing soap scum to build up can
damage the glass.
Over time, the minerals in soap
scum can get into the pores of the
glass, causing etching that makes
it look permanently foggy.
In this case, replacing the shower
doors or walls is the best way to
make the shower look clean again.
We can also recommend safe glass
sealants and cleaners that can
prevent soap scum from ruining the
beauty of your bathroom.
Raben Glass has over 40 years
of experience in the residential
and commercial glass industry.
We take pride in providing top
quality service as we replace dual
pane windows, install glass shower
enclosures, and build storefront
metal and glass entrances.
We are bonded and insured,
and our work and products
are guaranteed.