Glass can open up your space and help showcase your beautiful tile but it can also be a pain to keep clean and sparkly. The two main causes for your shower doors to look dull are hard water and soap sum build-up.
First, there are some preventative measures that you can take to make the job easier. Some installers offer having the glass coated with a water repellant sealer prior to install. If your glass is already installed, you can look for similar products on your own (think Rain-X for showers). There are companies that also offer shower head filters. They screw right into the showerhead itself and filter out contaminants, like chlorine, while also softening the water. Lastly, giving your doors a quick squeegee after each shower will keep them looking cleaner, longer.
If your doors are already in rough shape, we have 3 all-natural solutions for you. You can try them separately or use them together.
- Make your own mix- in a spray bottle combine one part white vinegar to three parts warm, distilled water. Rinse with warm water and wipe with a cloth.
- Rinse the door first. Put ½ cup of baking soda on a cloth and wipe down the door. Rinse again with warm water.
- Mix 3 tablespoons of pure lemon juice (~2-3 lemons) with one cup of distilled water. Spray the door thoroughly and let sit for 5 minutes. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
If your water if extremely hard, homemade cleaners may not be enough to do the trick. In this case, use a commercial cleaner with a pH between 7-8. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals. Open a window or turn on a fan to reduce breathing in the fumes. Spray the glass, wait a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a paper towel or cloth. Using a cleaning pad like Magic Eraser can also be helpful.
It is always best to clean the glass after you have already showered for the day. The warm water loosens up the grime. You can use a daily cleansing spray that does not require rinsing but the best way to prevent build up is with regular cleaning. Preventing water from sitting on the glass will also help you keep your glass looking shiny and new!