The Difference Between Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser and Soft Cleanser

January 19, 2022

We often get asked the difference between Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser and Soft Cleanser. Sometimes the question is which is best for a specific purpose. Both are great questions because the two products are different and have advantages.

The Difference Between Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser and Soft Cleanser

The ingredients of the two are similar in that neither has any regulated hazardous materials, and both contain Oxalic Acid, which is the primary ingredient. The difference is what makes the soft Cleanser soft. The Soft Cleanse contains water, citric acid, and lemon scent.

BKF Soft Cleanser 

The Bar Keepers Friend Liquid Cleanser can be nearly as potent as the powdered. However, the BKF Soft Cleansers premixed formula is more convenient for quick or routine cleaning. Another advantage of the Soft Cleanser is that it clings to vertical surfaces such as shower doors, while it removes soap scum, rust stains, tarnish, and mineral deposits.

BKF Powdered Cleanser

The original formula BKF Powder Cleanser delivers the same cleaning power that it has since 1882. It’s excellent for removing stains and grease in the kitchen and restoring stainless steel, brass, and porcelain. You can use BKF Powder throughout the home inside and out to remove rust stains, tarnish, water spots, mineral deposits, and more.

For me and many, choosing between the two is a matter of preference. However, it also depends on what you’re cleaning and why. For deep cleaning and restoration, you can’t beat BKF Powdered Cleanser, while for ease of use, including rinsing, Soft Cleanser may be your best bet.

We’re Glad You Asked  

“If it is routine lighter-duty cleaning, then the liquid Soft Cleanser is usually more than sufficient. If a more restorative, deep-clean is needed, then the BKF Powdered Cleanser is likely better. Bottom line: The two are not intended to be identical products. The powder offers the versatility of varying its “strength,” by the amount of water added, stronger or weaker. The Soft Cleanser is in effect “pre-diluted” or “ready-to-use” for a variety of (but not all) tasks, especially the more routine cleaning tasks.” — BKF Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what Miss Vickie of Pressure Cooker Times had to say 

“Bar Keepers Friend is available in both liquid and powder form. So, you must be wondering which one is better for you. The notion that one is better than the other is wrong. The powder form helps to remove the long-term stains and restores the original look. If you have not washed your kitchen or washroom accessories in some years, the powder form will help get back its original look. The liquid form has the benefit of convenience. You just have to apply it to the area without worrying about wetting the surface beforehand.” —  Bar Keepers Friend Liquid vs. Powder: Which One Is Better?

So, What’s the Difference Between Bar Keepers Friend Powdered Cleanser and Soft Cleanser?

The bottom line is that the Soft Cleaner can be easier to use and more convenient, while the original Powdered Cleanser may be better at deep and restorative cleaning. However, a lot of what you choose is based on your preference. I keep both on my laundry room shelf.

About the Author

Randy Clark is a speaker, coach, and author. He publishes a weekly blog at Randy Clark Leadership.com. Randy is passionate about social media, leadership development, and flower gardening. He’s a beer geek and on weekends (after COVID-19) he can be found fronting the Rock & Roll band Under the Radar. He’s the proud father of two educators; he has four amazing grandchildren and a wife who dedicates her time to helping others. Randy is the author of the Amazon bestseller The New Manager’s Workbook: A crash course in effective management.