When you start comparing cleaning products, it’s important to consider the surface being cleaned and how often you are going to use it.
The two names that often come up are Bar Keepers Friend and CLR. These are two powerhouse cleaning solutions that are proven to work well in a wide array of situations.
To make the right choice, you have to start by comparing Bar Keepers Friend vs CLR.
Bar Keepers Friend is ideal for softer surfaces, offers a potent finish, and is affordable. In comparison, CLR works well on plastic, can be used outdoors to great effect, and is best for hard surfaces.
In general, you can’t go wrong with either unless you are cleaning plastics or aluminum sidings. When these are being cleaned, you are going to have to go with CLR.
This guide is going to take a look at comparing Bar Keepers Friend vs CLR and what to consider when finding the right fit for your needs.
Best Bar Keepers Friend (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
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Comparing Bar Keepers Friend Vs CLR
1. Use On Plastics
Bar Keepers Friend is not ideal for plastics.
This means any item or surface that has plastic in it should not interact with Bar Keepers Friend. It will get ruined.
This is why people will often look for a specialized solution when handling a surface that is made of plastic.
If that is what you are going to be cleaning then it makes sense to go with CLR. This is a cleaning product that is ideal for use on plastics and is going to ensure the surface is as clean as it needs to be.
Don’t attempt to clean plastics using Bar Keepers Friend.
The results won’t be ideal and you might ruin the plastic too. This is why it’s best to stick to something that is marketed for working on plastic such as CLR.

2. Potency
When you are looking at potent cleaning agents both of these are going to come up. It simply has to do with what you are cleaning.
If you are going to be cleaning the siding outdoors, it is best to stick to CLR. It is far more potent in such a scenario.
On the other hand, if you are looking to clean cookware, you will want to lean towards Bar Keepers Friend as it will offer a comprehensive finish instantly.
Both are powerhouses and will work like a charm when they are put to use. It comes down to what you are cleaning.
3. Use On Hard Surfaces
When comparing CLR to Bar Keepers Friend, you have to consider the hardness of the surface.
Yes, this does matter.
On a harder surface, you will want to stick to CLR. It tends to do slightly better on these surfaces and will offer a cleaner experience as soon as you set things up.
This does not mean Bar Keepers Friend doesn’t work on hard surfaces but it is not as efficient.
For softer surfaces, you might want to lean towards Bar Keepers Friend as it will be efficient in such a scenario.

4. Pricing
As you are looking at the different options, you are going to wonder about the product you are going for and what you are cleaning.
Most people are going to have a budget when trending down this path.
If you want the most affordable solution then you should be looking at Bar Keepers Friend. CLR is slightly more costly depending on where you get it from.
If you get a good deal, you can find the right fit for both brands.
In most cases, a person is going to want to make a quick purchase and that is why Bar Keepers Friend tends to be easier to find at a good price.
Final Thoughts
These are the four variables you are going to have to think about when comparing Bar Keepers Friend vs CLR.
Bar Keepers Friend is renowned for being resilient on soft surfaces, works quickly, and tends to be more affordable. In comparison, CLR is good for cleaning plastics, works well on aluminum sidings, and will be safe to use indoors or outdoors.
It is best to consider your use case before deciding one way or the other.
For some people, Bar Keepers Friend makes sense in the kitchen, while those cleaning a siding outdoors will need to lean towards CLR.
There are no wrong options when it comes to these two brands. They are among the best in the industry for a reason and offer a potent finish you are going to enjoy. Choose what works best for your situation.
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