If you’ve ever stood in the cleaning aisle debating between Bar Keepers Friend and Soft Scrub, you’re not alone.

They both promise shiny sinks, spotless counters, and bathrooms that sparkle like new. But they’re not exactly the same thing. One has a reputation for being the go-to for tough, stubborn stains, while the other is more of an everyday helper.

I made this Bar Keepers Friend Vs Soft Scrub comparison to help you figure out which one to get!

#1 Main Ingredients

Bar Keepers Friend is powered by something called oxalic acid.

It sounds scary, but it’s really just a plant-based acid that’s tough on stains. It’s the magic that helps it cut through rust, mineral deposits, and the kind of gunk that laughs at regular soap.

It usually comes in powder form, though there’s also a liquid version for people who don’t love working with powders.

Soft Scrub, on the other hand, relies on bleach in some versions and other cleaning agents in non-bleach versions.

The bleach-heavy formulas are fantastic at tackling mold, mildew, and general bathroom grime. The non-bleach ones lean more toward being mild abrasives that scrub without being too harsh. It’s more of a creamy texture, so it spreads easily.

#2 Cleaning Power

Bar Keepers Friend is more powerful than Soft Scrub.

If you’re staring at a rusty sink drain or a pan that’s lost its shine, Bar Keepers Friend can clean it. That oxalic acid just eats away at those stains in a way most regular cleaners can’t.

It’s especially good on stainless steel, ceramic, and glass cooktops. People even use it on golf clubs and car wheels!

Basically, if it’s metal or has hard water stains, BKF usually wins.

Soft Scrub doesn’t fight rust the same way, but it’s perfect for bathroom cleaning. Soap scum, mildew, greasy residue - it handles those with ease.

The bleach versions are like a one-two punch on mold and grime, making it a quick option for tubs and showers. You’ll get that bright, disinfected look without putting in too much elbow grease.

So if you’re tackling rust and mineral buildup, go Bar Keepers Friend. If you’re scrubbing away soap scum or want a disinfecting clean, Soft Scrub takes the crown.

#3 Abrasiveness

One of the biggest things people worry about is scratches.

Bar Keepers Friend in powder form does have a fine grit to it. If you scrub too aggressively on a delicate surface, you might notice faint scratches.

The liquid version is less risky, but you still want to go easy and use a soft sponge.

Soft Scrub has a creamy texture that feels a bit like toothpaste. It’s less gritty and was designed to scrub without leaving scratch marks. Of course, if you go at it with a steel wool pad, that’s another story, but with a cloth or sponge, it’s pretty safe.

So if scratch risk is top of mind, Soft Scrub might make you feel more comfortable.

#4 Prices

This is where they’re surprisingly close.

Both Bar Keepers Friend and Soft Scrub are budget-friendly cleaners. You can usually find them for just a few dollars a bottle or canister.

Bar Keepers Friend powders often cost less per ounce because you only use a little bit each time. A single can can last months, even with regular use. The liquid is slightly pricier but still affordable.

Soft Scrub tends to be sold in larger bottles, so you might feel like you’re getting more product. But you also use more each time, especially if you’re tackling bigger areas like bathtubs.

At the end of the day, neither of these will break the bank. They’re both solid value options.

#5 What Surfaces Is It Safe To Use On

This is where the decision really matters.

Bar Keepers Friend is amazing on stainless steel, ceramic, porcelain, glass stove tops, and even copper or brass.

But it does not play well with natural stone like granite or marble. It can dull the finish or leave marks. It also shouldn’t be used on cast iron or uncoated aluminum either since it can cause discoloration.

Soft Scrub is much more flexible. It’s safe on most bathroom and kitchen surfaces, including sinks, counters, tiles, and tubs.

The bleach versions should still be avoided on sensitive materials, but the non-bleach formulas are generally gentler and cover more ground.

So think about what you’re cleaning. If your main target is metal or rust stains, Bar Keepers Friend is a winner. For a wider variety of household surfaces, Soft Scrub feels safer.

Should I Get Soft Scrub Or Bar Keepers Friend

#6 Smell

Bar Keepers Friend has a mild chemical scent. It’s not strong, and it doesn’t hang around long after you rinse it away.

Most people don’t mind it at all.

Soft Scrub with bleach, however, can be very strong. That bleach smell is unmistakable, and it can linger if the space isn’t well ventilated. The non-bleach versions are milder, but they still carry a noticeable cleaner smell.

If you’re sensitive to odors, you may prefer Bar Keepers Friend.

#7 Ease Of Use

Using Bar Keepers Friend is straightforward, but the powder can be a little messy.

You sprinkle it on, add water, scrub, and rinse. Simple enough, but if you don’t like dealing with powders, the liquid is less hassle. Still, it usually takes a bit of scrubbing to get the full effect.

Soft Scrub’s creamy formula feels more user-friendly. Just squeeze it onto a sponge, spread it around, and rinse. It clings to surfaces better than powder, which can cut down on effort. For bathrooms, especially, it feels quick and convenient.

#8 Environmental Impact

Bar Keepers Friend is phosphate-free and biodegradable, which makes it a more eco-friendly option.

It’s tough on stains but doesn’t carry the same environmental baggage as harsher chemicals.

Soft Scrub is a bit more complicated. The bleach formulas are effective, but bleach isn’t exactly great for the environment. The non-bleach ones are gentler, but they still have synthetic cleaning agents.

So while they’re safe for home use, they’re not the “greenest” choice.

If being eco-conscious is high on your list, Bar Keepers Friend takes the lead.

Should I Get Soft Scrub Or Bar Keepers Friend?

It really depends on what kind of mess you’re dealing with most often.

If your biggest battle is soap scum, greasy sinks, and bathroom grime, Soft Scrub makes your life easier. It’s a reliable, all-around cleaner that you can grab for everyday messes.

Plus, the creamy formula feels less intimidating if you don’t want to fuss with powders.

But if you’re staring down stubborn rust, hard water stains, or cookware that’s lost its shine, Bar Keepers Friend is the hero. It’s the one people swear by for restoring stainless steel sinks, polishing pans, and reviving surfaces that look permanently stained.

The truth is, a lot of people keep both.

They use Soft Scrub for quick bathroom cleans and grab Bar Keepers Friend for the really tough jobs.

Bottom Line

The main difference between Bar Keepers Friend and Soft Scrub is that Bar Keepers Friend is better for removing rust, mineral deposits, and restoring shine, while Soft Scrub is better for everyday bathroom and kitchen cleaning, tackling soap scum, grease, and mildew.

Soft Scrub is easier to use but bleach versions can smell strong and are less eco-friendly.

Bar Keepers Friend Vs Soft Scrub (Guide)