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Image Credit: Mytour / David HattanWhether you're giving your bathroom a deep clean, tackling your kitchen sink, or freshening up your washing machine, removing soap scum is crucial for a spotless finish. Effective soap scum removers can eliminate grime, hard water stains, and soap residue while preventing future buildup.
To identify the top soap scum removers, we evaluated numerous products, focusing on application techniques, surface compatibility, and ingredient quality. We also consulted Emma Barton, a cleaning specialist and founder of Steam Clean Queen, for expert advice on selecting and using soap scum removers.
Top Pick
Lysol Power Bathroom Cleaner
IMAGE: AmazonEliminates 99.9% of bathroom viruses and bacteria with minimal scrubbing required.
The product has a potent fragrance.
Soap scum isn't just limited to your shower; it can also appear around sinks, countertops, and even near your toilet. For a comprehensive bathroom cleaning solution, we suggest the Lysol Power Bathroom Cleaner. This product stands out for its minimal scrubbing requirement, hydrogen peroxide formula, and ability to remove limescale and soap scum while leaving surfaces sparkling. Additionally, it claims to eliminate 99.9% of bathroom viruses and bacteria, making it a reliable choice for a hygienic clean.
If strong odors are a concern for you, this product may not be ideal due to its intense, chemically fresh fragrance. However, if superior cleaning performance outweighs the temporary scent for you, this cleaner is an essential addition to your toolkit.
Type: Spray | Size: 22 ounces | Recommended Surfaces: Porcelain, glazed ceramic, cabinets, glass, chrome, tile
Top Choice for Glass
Rain-X Shower Door X-treme Clean
IMAGE: AmazonIt creates a water-repellent layer on glass surfaces.
The application process can be time-consuming.
Cleaning glass surfaces in bathrooms, especially glass shower doors, can be tricky, particularly in areas with hard water that leads to stubborn stains and buildup. The Rain-X X-Treme Clean Shower Door Cleaner is a top choice for maintaining glass surfaces, as it removes stains, boosts shine, and applies a protective water-repellent layer. To use, apply the gel cleaner with a damp microfiber cloth, rubbing it onto the glass in circular motions.
Although the application process can be lengthy, especially for larger surfaces, the results are worth the effort. If you want spotless, gleaming glass surfaces that resist future water spots, this cleaner is an excellent solution.
Type: Gel | Size: 12 ounces | Recommended Surfaces: Glass shower doors
Top Pick for Shower Walls
Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer Bathroom Cleaner
IMAGE: AmazonIt has a refreshing fragrance and is versatile for multiple surfaces.
The nozzle can be prone to messiness.
It’s easy to overlook your shower walls, forgetting they require as much cleaning and care as the rest of your bathroom. The Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer stands out for its ability to effectively remove stubborn soap scum and limescale. We also love its refreshing rainshower fragrance, which is pleasant without being overpowering.
This product is simple to use—just spray, let it sit, rinse, and wipe dry. Its powerful foaming formula works on tubs, vinyl shower curtains, shower doors, sinks, countertops, and more, but it truly shines on shower walls. While the nozzle can get a bit messy during application, the sparkling results will make you forget all about it.
Type: Spray | Size: 32 ounces | Recommended Surfaces: Ceramic tile, stainless steel, chrome, fiberglass, vinyl, glazed porcelain, glass, laminate, sealed granite, and quartz
Top Choice for Tile
Kaboom Shower, Tub & Tile Cleaner With OxiClean
IMAGE: AmazonIt excels at tackling tough soap scum buildup.
It’s less effective on glass surfaces.
Cleaning soap scum from the nooks and crannies of tile and grout can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. Fortunately, the Kaboom With OxiClean Shower, Tub, and Tile Cleaner simplifies the process with its powerful cleaning action. Barton also endorses this product for its effectiveness on laminated tubs and ceramic tiles.
This bleach-free foam spray uses micro-bubbles to penetrate and eliminate soap scum, stains, and grime. To use, apply the cleaner to the desired area, let it sit for up to 3 minutes, then rinse or wipe with a damp cloth. Keep in mind, though, that it may not perform as well on glass surfaces.
Type: Foam spray | Size: 32 ounces | Recommended Surfaces: Ceramic, tile, grout, porcelain, fiberglass, plastic
Top Eco-Friendly Choice
Method Daily Shower Cleaner Spray
IMAGE: WalmartThe biodegradable formula requires no rinsing or scrubbing.
It may struggle with tough hard water stains.
For those who value eco-friendliness, Method's Daily Shower Spray is an excellent choice. Its plant-based, biodegradable formula is free from harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, silicones, and bleach, ensuring a safe and sustainable cleaning solution. Additionally, the bottle is made from 100% recycled plastic, excluding the nozzle.
This cleaner stands out for its simplicity—just spray it after showering, and it works without scrubbing or rinsing. Designed for daily use, it helps prevent grime and soap scum buildup, though it may not handle heavy-duty stains or hard water marks as effectively. The refreshing eucalyptus mint scent leaves your bathroom smelling as fresh as it looks.
Type: Spray | Size: 28 ounces | Recommended Surfaces: Showers, tile, fixtures, glass, and tubs
Top Concentrate Option
Grove Co. Tub & Tile Cleaning Concentrate
IMAGE: Grove CollaborativeIt’s crafted from plant-based ingredients and available in various fragrances.
It’s not designed for tackling heavy soap scum buildup.
Certain surfaces, such as glass and acrylic tubs, require daily cleaning to prevent soap scum, grime, and buildup. However, not all cleaners are suitable for daily use, which is why the Grove Co. Tub & Tile Cleaner Concentrate is a standout. This compact yet potent concentrate can be mixed with a 16-ounce spray bottle to clean and minimize soap scum on tubs and tiles—no rinsing or wiping needed. We also appreciate its 89% plant-based formula, featuring essential oils and plant extracts, and its exclusion of harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, phosphates, or chlorine bleach.
As an EPA Safer Choice-certified product, this cleaner is packaged in recyclable glass and 100% recycled paper, which can be paired with a reusable glass bottle. Additionally, Grove Co. provides a prepaid label for returning the concentrate and spray bottles for recycling. While it’s offered in six fragrances, we particularly enjoy the orange and rosemary blend.
Type: Concentrate | Size: 1 ounce | Recommended Surfaces: Tile, ceramic, porcelain, glass, fiberglass
Top Sponge Option
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser for Bathroom and Shower
IMAGE: TargetIt’s disposable and effective on tough surfaces.
It lacks an unscented variant.
Removing soap scum from tricky spots like the edges of glass shower doors, sink corners, and around tub drains can be a challenging and often ineffective process. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Bath is a great solution for tackling soap scum, grime, and buildup in these areas. Made from melamine foam, this eraser is soft yet abrasive enough to clean surfaces thoroughly. While we appreciate the lavender scent, it’s worth noting that there’s no unscented option available.
To use this sponge, wet the purple dots to activate the built-in cleaner, then scrub away soap scum and hard water stains before rinsing. Despite its soft appearance, avoid using it on delicate surfaces like marble, granite, wood, and stainless steel.
Type: Foam sponge | Size: 4.6 by 2.3 by 0.70 inches | Recommended Surfaces: Glass, acrylic, tile, grout, porcelain, ceramic, chrome
Final Verdict
Our top recommendation is the Lysol Power Bathroom Cleaner for its powerful, bleach-free formula and ability to eliminate 99.9% of bathroom viruses and bacteria. For an eco-conscious yet effective choice, we suggest the CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Bathroom Cleaner Spray.
How to Choose Soap Scum Removers Like an Expert
Application Method
Most soap scum removers come in spray or liquid form, though foam sponges like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser are also an option. While application methods vary by brand, most products should be left to sit on the affected area to effectively break down buildup. Barton notes that each product and method has its advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your preferences and lifestyle.
- Spray: “Sprays are the simplest way to apply the product and cover the most surface area,” Barton explains. Available in liquid or foam forms, sprays can be a bit messy but are generally the most user-friendly option.
- Gel: Many gel cleaners also act as protective coatings to prevent future soap scum buildup. Application methods vary, from using a microfiber cloth to applying it in hard-to-reach areas like tub corners.
- Sponge: Unlike sprays, sponges and scrubbing tools are mess-free and often don’t require additional cleaning products. However, since they’re disposable, Barton notes they may feel less eco-friendly.
- Concentrate: Barton emphasizes that all cleaning concentrates must be diluted with water. While this adds an extra step, it extends the product’s lifespan, making it a sustainable and cost-effective choice.
Surface Type
Barton highlights that the most crucial factor when choosing a soap scum remover is its compatibility with the surface. Even if a cleaner is bleach-free or plant-based, always verify its safety for delicate surfaces before purchasing.
“Surfaces like marble, natural stone, and granite are highly sensitive to acidic soap scum cleaners,” Barton advises. “Using acidic cleaners on these surfaces can cause damage, so it’s better to opt for alkaline options with natural ingredients or OxiClean.”
Ingredients
Soap scum removers, like all cleaning products, can differ significantly in their ingredient lists. Some may include strong chemicals like bleach or ammonia, while natural options often feature ingredients such as vinegar or lactic acid. Barton advises assessing the severity of your soap scum problem and surface compatibility before selecting a product and reviewing its ingredients.
“If you prefer natural solutions, vinegar, baking soda, and lemon are effective for removing soap scum,” she suggests. “For commercial cleaners, opt for those containing hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, or citric acid.”
Common Questions
What’s the Best Way to Remove Soap Scum?
When using a store-bought soap scum remover, Barton notes that most are potent enough to clean without heavy scrubbing. Generally, spray or apply the product to the target area, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse or wipe clean with a damp cloth. “For stubborn buildup, consider using cleaning pads with built-in cleaning agents to enhance effectiveness,” she adds.
How Often Should You Use Soap Scum Removers?
Barton notes that the frequency of use depends on water hardness but suggests applying a soap scum remover biweekly for regular maintenance and prevention.
“Soap scum cleaners are the ultimate weapon in the fight against bathroom stains,” she explains. “To minimize effort, tackle small cleaning tasks throughout the week. This keeps soap scum levels low and makes deep cleaning sessions much easier.”
Does Bleach Remove Soap Scum?
While bleach can eliminate soap scum, Barton points out that it’s not always needed. Many bleach-free commercial cleaners and natural alternatives, such as a mix of pantry staples like vinegar and baking soda, can effectively remove soap scum. However, natural options may require more scrubbing and effort compared to store-bought cleaners.
What Dissolves Hardened Soap Scum?
Barton highlights several effective ingredients for removing soap scum. Whether using household remedies or commercial cleaners, there are numerous ways to achieve a spotless bathroom. One approach involves scrubbing with baking soda and lemon or dish soap mixed with warm water. For a less strenuous method, she suggests soaking paper towels in white vinegar and leaving them on the soap scum for 20 minutes.
Trust Our Expertise
This article was authored by L. Daniela Alvarez, a contributing writer for Mytour with nearly three years of experience covering lifestyle topics and product reviews, and updated by Jamie Fischer, a Mytour writer. To curate this list, extensive research was conducted on soap scum removers, evaluating popular options based on ingredients, usability, and versatility. Insights on selecting soap scum removers were provided by Emma Barton, a cleaning expert and founder of Steam Clean Queen.
