How To Clean Glass Shower Doors [5 Essential Steps + Tips] 

How To Clean Glass Shower Doors: Key Takeaways 

• Homeowners spend an average of 6 hours per month cleaning their bathrooms and the right routine can cut that by half 

• Regular cleaning helps prevent permanent stains, mold, and damage 

• Vinegar and dish soap are an effective, affordable cleaning combo 

• Baking soda paste works well for tough water stains 

• Use microfiber cloths and a squeegee to avoid streaks and buildup 

• Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive pads that can scratch the glass 

60% of homeowners plan to upgrade their shower area during bathroom renovations, with many citing ease of cleaning as a top priority. 

That’s because hard water stains, soap scum, and daily grime can build quickly, and most off-the-shelf cleaners only go so far. 

To keep your shower doors clean, today you’ll learn: 

• What causes glass shower doors to get dirty 

• The best tools and products for a spotless finish 

• Pro-level techniques for tackling hard water and soap scum 

• Expert maintenance tips to keep your glass crystal clear every day 

How To Clean Glass Shower Doors in 5 Steps 

Before we explain the cleaning process, gather your cleaning supplies, and then we’ll walk through each step to get your glass shower doors sparkling clean with minimal effort. 

Supplies You’ll Need 

Using the correct supplies not only ensures a streak-free finish but also protects the glass from damage. 

Step 1: Prep the Area 

Cleaning solutions work best on a rinsed, residue-free surface, and prepping prevents cross-contamination. 

To prep the area, you should: 

• Remove any bath mats, towels, and personal items around the enclosure 

• Turn on the fan or open a window for ventilation 

• Rinse the glass with warm water to loosen surface grime and soften mineral buildup 

Tip: Warm water pre-rinse helps break down soap scum more easily and allows cleaners to penetrate better. 

Step 2: Apply a Cleaning Solution 

You have two effective options: 

Option A: Vinegar & dish soap spray (best for soap scum) 

• Mix: Equal parts white distilled vinegar and any grease-cutting dish soap in a spray bottle 

• Apply: Spray generously onto the glass 

• Let it sit: 15–20 minutes is enough. For heavy buildup, up to 30 minutes is safe on non-coated glass 

Vinegar dissolves mineral deposits; dish soap cuts through oily soap residue. This combo is widely used by professional cleaners and recommended by Good Housekeeping and BHG. 

IMPORTANT: Avoid vinegar if your glass has a manufacturer-applied protective coating. In that case, use a pH-neutral cleaner like the DFI Revitalizer.

 

Option B: Baking soda paste (best for tough water spots) 

• Mix: 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water to make a thick paste 

• Apply: Use a damp microfiber cloth or soft sponge to gently rub the paste in circular motions 

• Let it sit: About 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly 

Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to lift off stubborn calcium deposits without scratching glass. 

Step 3: Scrub Gently 

Use a non-scratch sponge, microfiber cloth, or melamine foam pad. 

When scrubbing, you should: 

• Gently scrub in a circular motion, paying attention to corners and metal frame edges where grime collects. 

• Avoid abrasive scrubbers (steel wool or scouring pads), which can scratch or cloud the glass. 

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly 

Use warm water to rinse the glass completely. 

Make sure no cleaner residue is left, especially from baking soda or soap, as this can attract more grime over time. 

Pro tip: Use a detachable showerhead or a rinsing cup for more controlled water coverage. 

Step 5: Dry and Buff 

Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the entire surface. 

• Alternatively, use a squeegee (ideal for daily maintenance) to remove moisture quickly. 

• Buff the glass with a dry cloth to eliminate streaks and reveal clarity. 

Pro Tips To Keep Your Shower Glass Doors Crystal Clear 

These expert-backed tips will help prevent soap scum, hard water spots, and mildew buildup, so your shower always looks spotless. 

Tip #1: Use a Squeegee After Every Shower 

Water droplets left to dry lead to hard water stains and mineral deposits. 

To clean these water droplets, you should: 

• Keep a squeegee hung on a hook or suction cup in your shower 

• Take 30 seconds after each shower to wipe down the glass 

• Remind household members to do the same for consistent results 

This single step can reduce the need for deep cleaning by up to 80%. 

Tip #2: Apply a Water Repellent Coating Monthly 

Water repellents help prevent minerals from sticking to the glass. 

When applying water repellents, you should: 

• Use products like Rain-X or EnduroShield 

• Apply the coating to clean, fully dry glass 

• Reapply every 3–4 weeks for lasting water-beading effects 

It creates a hydrophobic barrier that causes water to bead and run off. 

Tip #3: Switch to Liquid Body Wash 

Bar soap leaves behind talc and binders that cause scum buildup. 

• Use liquid body wash instead of bar soap 

• Choose glycerin-based or soap-free formulas 

• Store soaps away from direct contact with glass if still used 

This small lifestyle switch can drastically cut down on grime over time. 

Tip #4: Ventilate the Bathroom 

Humidity fosters mildew, especially in shower door tracks and seals. 

To improve ventilation and reduce moisture buildup: 

• Run a bathroom fan during and after showers 

• Crack a window to let damp air escape 

• Leave the shower door open slightly after use to promote airflow 

Consistent airflow prevents black mold in silicone seals and keeps glass edges dry.

Tip #5: Spot Clean Between Deep Cleans 

Targeted touch-ups save you from major scrubbing sessions. 

For quick maintenance throughout the week: 

• Keep a spray bottle of 1:1 vinegar and water under the sink 

• Spray problem areas weekly and wipe with a microfiber cloth 

• Address visible spots before they become stubborn stains 

Tip #6: Deep Clean Once a Week 

A weekly reset keeps long-term buildup in check. 

When doing a deep clean, make sure to: 

• Use your chosen cleaner to cover the entire surface evenly 

• Scrub gently with non-scratch tools, especially in corners 

• Rinse and dry thoroughly, then inspect seals and hardware 

Preventative maintenance adds years of clarity and performance to your glass. 

When Cleaning Shower Doors Isn’t Enough

 If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to replace your glass shower door: 

• Cloudy or etched glass that stays hazy no matter how much you clean 

• Black mold or mildew in seals or door tracks that keeps coming back 

• Loose or rusted hardware like hinges, brackets, or handle 

• Chips or cracks in the glass, even small ones, which can weaken the structure 

• Frequent leaks or water escaping due to failing seals or poor fit 

• Outdated or worn design that no longer fits your bathroom’s style 

From initial consultation to final wipe-down, Steel City Glass is your trusted partner for installations that look as flawless as they function 

Premium Glass Installations Start With Steel City Glass

 Crystal-clear shower doors elevate your bathroom and reflect the quality of your interior design. 

At Steel City Glass, we understand that glass is a design element that deserves precision, durability, and expert handling. 

Whether you’re renovating a master bath, designing a custom enclosure, or replacing aging glass, we deliver dependable craftsmanship and professional service at every stage. 

What we offer: 

• Custom glass solutions: Tailored enclosures, glass panels, and mirrors made to fit your space and style 

• On-site measurements: Precision that ensures seamless installation and minimal post-install cleanup 

• Exceptional customer service: Transparent communication and reliable scheduling from start to finish 

• Premium materials: Long-lasting, low-maintenance glass that stands up to daily use 

• Post-installation support: Expert guidance on care, cleaning, and when it’s time to upgrade 

From initial consultation to final wipe-down, Steel City Glass is your trusted partner for installations that look as flawless as they function

 

The Best Way To Clean Shower Doors: FAQs 

Learn the best ways to clean shower doors and how to get rid of hard stains with ease. 

What’s the best way to clean glass shower doors naturally? 

The most effective natural method is a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water. Spray it on, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, and then wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. 

Tip: Always test natural cleaners on a small area first as some glass coatings may be sensitive to acidic solutions like vinegar. 

How to get water stains off glass? 

Hard water stains (calcium and magnesium deposits) can be removed with: 

• Vinegar and dish soap for light spots 

• Baking soda paste for heavier buildup 

• Commercial hard water stain removers like CLR® for very stubborn cases (always check compatibility with tempered or coated glass) 

Avoid abrasive tools like steel wool that can scratch the surface. 

Can I use a Magic Eraser on glass shower doors? 

Yes, melamine sponges (like Magic Erasers) are safe for uncoated glass when used gently. However, avoid using them on glass with a hydrophobic or factory-applied coating, as they may dull the finish over time. 

How often should I clean my glass shower doors? 

• Daily: Quick squeegee after each shower 

• Weekly: Light cleaning with vinegar or a pH-neutral cleaner 

• Monthly: Deep cleaning with detailed scrubbing and optional reapplication of water repellents 

Regular maintenance helps prevent buildup and reduces cleaning effort over time. 

Why do my shower doors still look foggy after cleaning? 

Persistent fog or haze could be caused by: 

• Etching from years of hard water exposure (not reversible with cleaning) 

• Residue from cleaners not fully rinsed 

• Mildew in corners or seals that needs targeted treatment 

If haze remains after deep cleaning, it may be time to consider replacement glass. 

Is it safe to use ammonia-based cleaners on shower glass? 

Ammonia can be effective on regular glass but is not recommended for: 

• Glass with coatings 

• Enclosures with aluminum framing (can cause discoloration) 

• Poorly ventilated bathrooms (fumes can be irritating) 

Safer alternatives include vinegar, pH-neutral commercial cleaners, or baking soda.