How to Clean Glass Shower Doors

Introduction

Glass shower doors can quickly become cloudy from soap scum, mineral deposits, and hard water stains. Without regular cleaning, the buildup becomes harder to remove and the glass loses its clarity. Fortunately, with the right combination of products and techniques, you can restore your shower doors to a bright, streak-free finish.

What You'll Need

• White vinegar

• Baking soda (optional)

• Dish soap

• Spray bottle

• Microfiber cloth

• Squeegee

• Soft scrub brush or sponge

• Lemon juice (optional)

Steps

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Warm vinegar works best for stubborn buildup.
Spray the solution generously over the glass doors, making sure the entire surface is coated.
Let the vinegar sit for 10–15 minutes to dissolve soap scum and mineral deposits.
For heavy buildup, make a paste of baking soda and a few drops of water, then apply it to problem areas using a soft sponge.
Spray the vinegar solution again over the baking soda paste. It will fizz and help lift residue.
Scrub gently with a sponge or soft brush, paying extra attention to edges and corners.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water until all residue is removed.
Dry the surface with a microfiber cloth and finish with a squeegee to prevent new water spots.

Alternative Methods

• Use lemon juice to dissolve mineral deposits and leave a fresh scent.

• Apply a commercial glass shower cleaner specifically formulated for hard water stains.

• Use a Magic Eraser-style sponge to remove stubborn soap scum without scratching.

• Try a dish soap and vinegar mixture (1:1) for strong greasy buildup.

What NOT to Do

• Do not use abrasive scouring pads, as they can scratch the glass.

• Avoid mixing vinegar with bleach or any chlorine-based cleaners.

• Do not leave acidic cleaners on metal frames for too long; they can cause corrosion.

• Avoid using razor blades unless recommended by the manufacturer.

FAQs

How often should I clean glass shower doors?

Light cleaning once a week and a deeper clean once or twice a month helps prevent buildup.

Why do my shower doors get cloudy?

Cloudiness is usually caused by soap scum, minerals in hard water, and residue left behind from shampoos and conditioners.

Can I prevent buildup?

Yes. Using a squeegee after each shower and wiping the doors with a microfiber cloth helps prevent water spots and soap scum.

What if vinegar doesn’t work?

Hard water stains sometimes require a stronger commercial cleaner or repeated applications of vinegar and baking soda.

This article is for informational purposes only. Always follow manufacturer instructions and use proper safety precautions. You assume all risk for any actions you take based on this guide.

Articles

Read our latest guides

Discover step-by-step methods for removing stains and cleaning every type of surface.