What Cleans the White Scum on Pool Tile?

What Is the White Scum?

• The unsightly white scum typically located at the pool's waterline is a buildup of calcium. The calcium begins to form when the pool water's pH level is out of balance. If left untreated, the calcium scum won't damage the structure of the pool. However, it can leave permanent staining on the tiles. You can keep the white scum at bay by regularly checking the water’s pH balance and correcting it accordingly.

Descaler

• Several commercial pool descalers are available that remove the white scum from pool tiles. Each brand of descaler has its own set of specific instructions. Depending on the type of descaler you purchase, you may have to add the treatment to the entire body of water or scrub the scum buildup off the tiles with the chemical descaler and tile brush. For information on your specific brand of descaler, refer to the instructions on the bottle.

White Vinegar

• For a more natural treatment of the calcium buildup, try white vinegar. White vinegar is naturally acidic and contains no harsh or toxic chemicals. Use white vinegar at full strength and dampen a scrubbing sponge in the pungent liquid. Scrub the white calcium buildup in a vigorous back-and-forth motion for several minutes. If scrubbing the vinegar does not remove the buildup, lower the pool water below the calcium scale. Saturate several paper towels in pure white vinegar and cover the calcium with the saturated paper towels. After several hours, remove the paper towels and scrub the tiles clean with a tile brush.

Muriatic Acid

• Pool-supply stores typically sell a muriatic acid solution -- also called an acid wash -- which removes grime and mineral buildup from your pool tiles. Before using the solution, read the instructions and warnings. Certain brands of acid wash require diluting with water beforehand. The label on the bottle informs you whether you must dilute the solution and what the recommended ratio is. Before using the muriatic acid solution, wear chemical-resistant rubber gloves and safety glasses. Use a sponge damp in the solution to remove the calcium deposit from the tiles.