How to Clean Soap Scum From Tub or Shower With a Dryer Sheet

Clean showers and tubs to restore their sparkle.

Soap scum builds up on the surface of tubs and showers and dulls the luster of tile, porcelain enamel or fiberglass. Soap scum makes bathtubs, shower walls and doors look dirty and uninviting. Soap scum is a thin film resulting from a combination of soap and mineral deposits. Typically, homeowners who have hard water have more soap scum buildup, but all showers and tubs are prone to it.

Things You'll Need

• Towel

Instructions

1. Save dryer sheets after using them in the clothes dryer. Scented and unscented dryer sheets are equally effective.

2. Wet the dryer sheet with plain water. Squeeze out excess water from the dryer sheet so it remains wet, but not dripping water.

3. Scrub shower walls, doors and bathtub surfaces with the wet dryer sheet to remove soap scum. Begin at the top of the wall or door and work down toward the base of the shower. Fold the dryer sheets to access corners and crevices.

4. Wipe the walls, doors and tubs with a towel to remove excess moisture from the surfaces.

Tips & Warnings

• Over time and repeated shower and tub use, the layers of soap scum become thicker and more difficult to remove. Scrub walls and bathtub surfaces after each use while the surface is still wet to help prevent soap scum buildup.

• New dryer sheets are just as effective as used dryer sheets.

• Avoid using scented dryer sheets if you are allergic to them or any of the ingredients.

References

• "Extraordinary Uses for Ordinary Things"; Reader's Digest Editors; 2004