Use Laundry Detergent To Fight Soap Scum In Your Bathroom

Soap scum is a filmy residue often found in bathrooms, primarily from the reaction between soap and hard water minerals. This mix also includes dirt and oils from our bodies. Besides being unsightly, it's stubborn to clean and can lead to mold, potentially damaging bathroom surfaces. Removing soap scum can be challenging, especially if it's been there for a while. Fortunately, powdered laundry detergent can be a helpful tool in your cleaning arsenal.

Powdered laundry detergent is more than just a tool for cleaning clothes — it's a potent cleaner for various surfaces, including those in your bathroom. First, begin by filling a bucket with hot water. Next, mix in a teaspoon of powdered detergent. Apply the mixture to the soap scum using a sponge or rag, scrubbing energetically until it forms a paste-like texture. After the soap scum is removed, wash the area with fresh water. Dry the surface with a cloth to avoid water marks and enhance the shine. Before a full application, do a patch test in a discreet spot to confirm the detergent doesn't harm or stain the surface.

Powdered detergents are highly effective against soap scum due to their inclusion of builders, per Penn State Materials Research Institute. Builders are components in cleaning products that soften water by counteracting hard water minerals like calcium and magnesium. By doing so, they prevent these minerals from reacting with soap, thus avoiding the formation of soap scum.

However, certain safety and usage precautions should be adhered to when using powdered laundry detergent. Always wear gloves when handling to prevent potential skin irritations. Also, exercise caution when applying detergent to delicate surfaces to avoid unintended damage. Additionally, be mindful of the detergent's packaging. Typically, powdered detergent comes in cardboard boxes, which can be cumbersome, easily torn, and susceptible to damage when wet. Overall, while powdered detergents are exemplary at soap scum removal due to their soil elimination prowess and soap scum formation prevention, taking extra precautions will ensure you're able to maximize all the benefits.