Expert: Sijka - 7/25/2003

Question
Please!!   I can't remove the soap scum build-up from my shower doors? What is the best and ,of course, easiest way to remove soap scum.  Thanks

Answer
Thanks for the question--it's been an age old one and caused many people to remove their glass doors-only to be more disappointed in a shower curtain

There are several things that you can use for soap scrum on your shower doors. Then there is a maintenance plan.

1) The first thing you can try is "dehumidifier" cleaner.  Use full strength in a spray bottle.  Spray really good and let sit.  If your doors are frosted and a little bumpy (you know that type) use a scrub sponge and scrub the scum off.
You may have to do this several times depending on how bad it is.  Don't forget the chrome around the door-use a stiff brush for that.
2) The other thing you can scrub the dehumidifier spray is "lava wipes" (they are also VERY good for cleaning the rubber on athletic shoes).
3) I've also used Rain-X
4)  SHOWER WALL AND GLASS DOOR CLEANER

White vinegar, heated
Dry borax

To clean hard water spots and scum off shower walls and glass doors, use undiluted, heated white vinegar.

Put heated vinegar into a spray bottle, spray on and let soak 15 minutes. Using a nylon-covered sponge, apply dry borax and scrub. For really stubborn problems use a dry, soap-filled fine steel wool pad on a dry shower.


Now the MAINTAINANCE.
After EVERY shower--wipe the door with a towel--keep one in the shower just for that purpose.  You will not have to clean again. This is probably the easiest to do!!

IF that is a pain...mix up the following and spray it on your door after EVERY shower:

DAILY SHOWER CLEANER SPRAY

3 T. liquid Jet-dry (for dishwashers)
Water

Combine Jet dry and water in a spray bottle to fill the bottle. Spray shower walls after every shower.

I have found that the sprays in the store leave a "barely visible" browning stain--depending on your water.

Please let me know how it works!!

Sijka