Homemade Solutions for Cleaning Scum Off Bathroom Shower Walls

Bathroom shower walls can accumulate soap scum quickly, because each time you shower, dirty, soapy water is splashed onto the walls. This leaves the bathroom looking dirty and uncared for, which makes it important to properly clean the shower walls on a regular basis.

Minimizing Buildup

To minimize soap scum buildup in the shower, squeegee the shower after each use, or wipe down the walls with a clean rag. This wipes off residue before it has the chance to dry onto your shower walls.

Avoiding Commercial Cleaners

Many of the commercial cleaning products on the market are filled with harmful chemicals that should not be used around the home or family. These chemicals are not only unnecessary, but give off harmful fumes and subject your family members to harsh chemical agents. These cleaning agents can also be high priced.

Homemade Cleaning Solution

There are several elements you can combine, depending on the type of cleaning power you want. Dish soap cuts through soap scum buildup and works well as an all-purpose cleaner. Baking soda deodorizes well and also boosts cleaning power, working especially well if you want to brighten grout or light-colored shower walls. White vinegar is a natural disinfecting agent that will kill bacteria, mold, and mildew, elements that are sometimes an issue in moist areas such as the shower. To clean off the soap scum naturally, fill a spray bottle with 2 cups water, 1 tbsp. dish soap, 1 tbsp. baking soda, and 1/4 cup white vinegar. This mixture cuts through soap scum along with any other residue that has accumulated in the shower. Spray on the solution, and wipe it off with a damp rag, or scrub with a damp nylon scrubbing pad. Rinse the shower, and dry it with a clean rag or towel. Baking soda also works well for stain removal. If you have stain buildup on the shower walls, sprinkle a coating of baking soda onto a wet rag or nylon scrub brush, and scrub the soda into the stain. Baking soda has a slightly abrasive texture that breaks up residue without scratching or causing harm to the shower surface. After using the baking soda, rinse the shower area or wipe it down with a wet rag to remove the baking soda residue.

Safe Commercial Cleaners

If you prefer to purchase a safe shower cleaner instead of making your own, there are several green cleaning lines on the market that allow you to clean the home without use of harmful ingredients. Browse your local supermarket's cleaning aisles for safe shower cleaning products.

References

• Utah State University Cooperative Extension: Making a House a Home
• Keene State College: Green Cleaning