General Information :
Bathroom cleaners range from mild to extremely strong. A mild general purpose detergent is more than needed when cleaning is frequent. Specific problems require special formulations.
Soap-scum: a heavy build-up of soap-scum will need a more concentrated cleaner. A degreasing product will remove soap-scum and body oils quite effectively. Allow contact time for the product to emulsify the scum and remove it from the surface.
Mold and mildew: a disinfectant type product is needed to kill the micro-organisms and allow for removal. Bleach will certainly work but can be harsh for both user and surface. Other products will have a germicidal ingredient to kill mildew along with detergent, scent, foaming and/or thickening agents to cling to verticle surfaces. They will vary in effectiveness, especially on grout, which is difficult to clean even with commercial grade cleaners. Regardless, disinfection is only temporary, germs will immediately start growing again. The key is to clean frequently before mildew accumulates too much.
Mineral deposits: best prevented than removed afterward. An acid based product is most effective on mineral stains although a lot of scrubbing is usually required. Rust, calcium and lime removing products are expensive but generally perform well.
Avoid abrasive liquid and powder cleaners on acrylic tubs and showers, which scratch easily as will metal faucets and taps.
Never mix bleach with ammonia or acid cleaners dangerous fumes can result.
Recommendation:
Most bathroom cleaners will do an adequate job on soap-scum and prevent mildew and mineral deposits from forming. Frequent cleaning is the key. For more difficult stains use a product designed for the purpose. Actual scrubbing to clean is almost unavoidable where bathrooms are concerned.
Environmentally Friendly Solution :
Simply wipe down surfaces with water and a clean cloth as often as possible to prevent build-up.
General Information :Bathroom cleaners range from mild to extremely strong. A mild general purpose detergent is more than needed when cleaning is frequent. Specific problems require special formulations.Soap-scum: a heavy build-up of soap-scum will need a more concentrated cleaner. A degreasing product will remove soap-scum and body oils quite effectively. Allow contact time for the product to emulsify the scum and remove it from the surface.Mold and mildew: a disinfectant type product is needed to kill the micro-organisms and allow for removal. Bleach will certainly work but can be harsh for both user and surface. Other products will have a germicidal ingredient to kill mildew along with detergent, scent, foaming and/or thickening agents to cling to verticle surfaces. They will vary in effectiveness, especially on grout, which is difficult to clean even with commercial grade cleaners. Regardless, disinfection is only temporary, germs will immediately start growing again. The key is to clean frequently before mildew accumulates too much.Mineral deposits: best prevented than removed afterward. An acid based product is most effective on mineral stains although a lot of scrubbing is usually required. Rust, calcium and lime removing products are expensive but generally perform well.Avoid abrasive liquid and powder cleaners on acrylic tubs and showers, which scratch easily as will metal faucets and taps.Never mix bleach with ammonia or acid cleaners dangerous fumes can result.Recommendation:Most bathroom cleaners will do an adequate job on soap-scum and prevent mildew and mineral deposits from forming. Frequent cleaning is the key. For more difficult stains use a product designed for the purpose. Actual scrubbing to clean is almost unavoidable where bathrooms are concerned.Environmentally Friendly Solution :Simply wipe down surfaces with water and a clean cloth as often as possible to prevent build-up.
