How to Remove Soap Scum From a Porcelain Bathtub

If your porcelain bathtub contains a layer of soap scum, you will want to learn how to remove it safely and effectively. You have probably tried several products without success. Here are some tips for getting rid of that scum.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Baking Soda
• TSP
• Bleach
• Calgon bath products
• Shampoo
• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

1. Create a heavy-duty solution that works well on cleaning heavy scum, dirt or grease deposits by mixing one tablespoon of trisodium phosphate substitute (TSP) with a gallon of hot water.

2. Chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide can remove tough stains. Be sure to dilute with water, and wear gloves. These cleaners will not remove rust stains.

3. Remember that harsh abrasives can damage a porcelain surface. Use a paste of baking soda and water for general cleaning of stains.

4. Try shampoo or Calgon bath products since both may soften the calcium deposits on the porcelain.

5. The best way to remove soap scum is to stop it before it happens. By changing to liquid cleanser that does not contain soap, you can ward off most soap scum. It's also important to clean your tub frequently. Taking showers instead of baths limits the contact of soap with the porcelain.

Tips & Warnings

• You may find some of the more creative and thrifty solutions for soap scum at Thriftyfun.com. One of the most common threads on this topic suggested using a dampened fabric softener sheet for easy removal. Another suggestion was the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.

• Be sure to wear gloves when handling chemicals.

• Do not mix cleansers. Toxic gases can form from mixing certain chemicals.

Resources

• This is a great website for getting your questions answered. Cheap solutions for tough problems.
• This is a good site for getting expert advice on remove stains from porcelain tubs.