Bathroom Cleaner for Soap Scum and Grime with Soda Crystals
A warm Soda Crystals spray for soap scum and greasy build-up on sinks, baths and showers.
Takes 5 minutes · Makes 500 ml
What you’ll need
- 1–2 tbsp Soda Crystals
- 500 ml Hot water
- Container or bowl or mixing
- Trigger Spray Bottle (optional)
- Funnel (optional)
- Microfibre Cloth, Sponge, Scourer or Magic Sponge
- Rubber gloves
Method:
- Mix 500 ml of warm water with one to two tablespoons of Soda Crystals in a container until fully dissolved (it might block the pump of the spray bottle if not dissolved well).
- Transfer the mixture into a spray bottle using a funnel and shake well. Alternatively, soak a Microfibre Cloth directly into the solution.
- Spray the solution onto the surfaces or spread it over the surfaces with the cloth, letting it sit for a couple of minutes. Gently scrub any tough stains with a clean, damp cloth.
- Rinse thoroughly afterwards to ensure no residue is left behind, and let it dry with the fan on or by letting some air in.
To remove limescale, grease, and soap buildup from various bathroom fixtures including the sink, bath, and shower.
Soap scum is part soap, part grease, part minerals. Soda Crystals break down the greasy part and soften the water, so the scum loosens.
The science: Sodium carbonate (PubChem, NIH) → · Hard water and soap scum (USGS) →
Whilst Soda Crystals are a natural cleaning wonder, there are some things that should not be cleaned with them because of their abrasive properties (can scratch delicate surfaces).
Polished/Waxed/Lacquered Surfaces:
Due to its abrasiveness, Soda Crystals should not be used on fibreglass or polished/waxed surfaces as they may cause damage. The same applies to lacquered or varnished surfaces as Soda Crystals can damage the lacquer and leave a dull finish.
Aluminium:
Soda Crystals should not be used on aluminium products, such as aluminium pans, utensils, or window frames. This is because Soda Crystals can corrode aluminium and will discolour them.
Store Soda Crystals in a labelled airtight container in a cool and dry place, out of reach of kids and pets. Get a container with a tight seal, such as our glass jars to maximise its shelf life, but it also makes it easier to scoop out when needed for cleaning.
Whilst Soda Crystals are a very environmentally friendly and safe Natural Cleaning ingredient, it is important to bear in mind that it is still a chemical. As such the powder can still cause damage and irritation if handled incorrectly.
It is not edible, should not be inhaled, and can damage eyes (flush the exposed areas with large quantities of water). Wear gloves when cleaning with Soda Crystals as prolonged contact with the skin when used in high concentrations can also cause irritation.
If this Soda Crystal Bathroom Cleaner isn’t your cup of tea, give our Multipurpose Cleaner with Citric Acid a go for tackling limescale and soap scum effortlessly.
B&M Pro-Tip 1:
Clean straight after a shower, while the room is steamy: the grime is already loosened. Open a window afterwards. Hot or cold water? →
B&M Pro-Tip 2:
For a residue-free finish, scrub with Soda Crystals first, rinse, then mist with our Citric Acid spray to clear the last of the scum. Bicarb vs Soda Crystals →
Quick questions
Will it damage my acrylic bath?
Rinse it off well and don’t leave it to dry. Avoid fibreglass and polished finishes.
Why is the spray nozzle blocked?
The crystals weren’t fully dissolved. Mix in warm water and stir until clear.
Try this next: Citric Acid Spray →
