Argh! Nothing is worse than a grimy shower. A shower should be clean and sparkly, but if your glass is already dirty, don't worry, it can be returned to its crystal-clear condition by following the steps below.
Why and How do Glass Showers and Doors Get Dirty?
Glass shower doors and enclosures get dirty over time due to a buildup of soap scum, mineral deposits from hard water, and other types of residue. These substances can adhere to the glass surface, creating a cloudy or hazy appearance.
Even worse, mold and mildew can grow in the warm, damp environment of a shower, which can also contribute to the discoloration and buildup on glass surfaces.
Glass shower doors can also get dirty is through the use of cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals. Additionally, using abrasive scrubbers or sponges can scratch the surface of the glass, making it more susceptible to future buildup and discoloration.
Types of Glass Cleaners
There are several commercial cleaning products that are effective at cleaning glass shower doors and enclosures and they can mostly be broken into one of these three categories:
- Soap Scum Remover: These products are specifically formulated to break down and remove soap scum, mineral deposits, and other types of residue that can build up on glass surfaces. They typically contain acids or enzymes that dissolve the buildup.
- Glass Cleaner: A good quality glass cleaner can be used to remove dirt, grime, and other types of buildup from the surface of the glass. It is important to ensure that the cleaner is safe for use on glass surfaces and does not contain any harsh chemicals that may damage the surface.
- Mildew and Mold Remover: A mildew and mold remover can be used to clean and prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the glass. They typically contain a combination of bleach and other cleaning agents to effectively remove mold and mildew.
Our Ranking of Best Cleaners for Glass Showers
Here are our top picks for the best glass shower door cleaners, plus tips and useful information on how to clean your shower safely and effectively.
Best Environmentally-Friendly: Ecos Bathroom Spray
Best Streak-Free: Sprayway Glass Foam Cleaner
Best for Soap Scum: Scrubbing Bubbles, Daily Shower Cleaner
Best Overall: Tilex Daily Shower Cleaner
Tips for Cleaning Glass Showers
To clean glass shower doors and walls with household products for free - you can use a mixture of white vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the shower doors and walls. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a sponge or squeegee. Rinse the area with water and dry with a clean towel or squeegee.
Another option is to use a commercial glass cleaners specifically designed for shower doors and walls, which we've ranked below.
Avoid using abrasive cleaning products or sponges, as they can scratch the glass. Also, it is important to clean the shower regularly to prevent soap scum and hard water stains from building up.