Tips to Remove Soap Scum from Glass Shower Doors

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5 TIPS FOR REMOVING SCUM FROM
GLASS SHOWER DOORS
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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.
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This frustrating substance is the result of fats
and waxes in the soap, mixing with minerals in
the water, to make a sticky film.
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Soap residue buildup is most noticeable on clear
surfaces such as the shower doors, but it can
also exist in the bathtub and sinks.
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Removing soap scum takes a combination of
determination and elbow grease. Adding these
tips to your cleaning routine will leave your
shower sparkling clean.
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Use a Vinegar-Based Solution
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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.
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For extra cleaning power, add a couple
tablespoons of dish soap. Then, just spray the
shower walls and door down and walk away.
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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.
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Boost Cleaning Power With Baking Soda
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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.
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Simply rub this mixture on and let it sit, just
like you would the vinegar solution. When
youre ready to scrub, use a gentle touch.
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Baking soda is slightly abrasive, which is good
for getting through the scum. Just dont rub so
hard that you leave scratches in the glass.
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Be Prepared to Repeat the Process
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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.
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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.
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Prevent Soap Scum From Building Up
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Once youve gotten your shower doors sparkling
clean, you want to keep them that way.
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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.
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Bonus tip Drying the shower with a squeegee
every time also prevents build up.
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Use a Different Type of Soap
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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 theyll rinse away
more easily.
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If you use a heavy conditioner or other oily
products, then consider washing the walls and
door down when you are done.
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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.
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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.
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Raben Glass has over 40 years of experience in
the residential and commercial glass industry.
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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.