Cloudy glass shower doors can make even a spotless bathroom look messy. Hard water stains, soap scum, and everyday grime build up fast, leaving the glass dull and streaked. The good news? With the right cleaning routine, you can restore the shine and prevent long-term damage.
We asked cleaning experts to share their top methods for cleaning glass shower doors. These tips will help you keep your bathroom looking fresh, clear, and inviting.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Ignoring buildup on shower doors is like ignoring a wine spill on a white shirt—it only gets worse with time. Soap scum and mineral deposits can etch into glass, making it harder to clean later.
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Weekly upkeep prevents stains from setting in.
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Simple daily habits like using a squeegee keep doors clear.
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Wrong cleaners can damage special coatings, so always test first.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these basic supplies:
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Spray bottle
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Distilled white vinegar
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Dish soap
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Non-abrasive sponge or foam pad
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Baking soda
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Microfiber cloth
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Squeegee
Method 1: Vinegar and Dish Soap
This is a gentle yet effective way to remove soap scum and water spots.
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Mix equal parts vinegar and dish soap in a spray bottle.
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Spray generously on the glass door.
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Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
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Scrub with a sponge or foam pad.
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Rinse with warm water.
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Dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks.
Method 2: Baking Soda Paste
Perfect for stubborn stains and mineral deposits.
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Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.
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Apply to the glass with a sponge.
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Let it sit for 10 minutes.
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For extra power, spritz warm vinegar on top—the fizz helps break down buildup.
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Rinse with warm water.
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Wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
How Often Should You Clean?
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Daily: Use a squeegee after each shower.
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Weekly: Quick wipe-down with vinegar and water.
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Monthly: Deep clean with vinegar and soap or baking soda.
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Every 3 months: Apply a water-repellent like Rain-X to keep doors cleaner longer.
Tip: If you have a water-repellent coating, you may only need deep cleaning every 3–4 weeks.
Preventing Odors and Mold
Moisture left in the shower can lead to mildew and musty smells. To avoid this:
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Use vinegar—it naturally disinfects and removes odors.
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Leave the shower door open after each use to let it dry.
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Keep up with weekly cleaning to stop mold before it starts.
Seasonal Maintenance Tips
Here’s a simple schedule to keep shower doors spotless year-round:
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Daily: Squeegee after every shower.
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Weekly: Spray vinegar solution or glass cleaner.
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Monthly: Deep clean with baking soda or vinegar/soap.
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Quarterly: Apply water-repellent or wax for long-term protection.
If hard water is a constant problem, consider installing a water softener shower head. This reduces mineral buildup and makes cleaning easier.
Clear glass shower doors don’t just make your bathroom look better—they also last longer when properly cared for. With a mix of daily habits and monthly deep cleaning, you can prevent buildup, stop mold, and enjoy sparkling glass every day.
By using simple household items like vinegar, dish soap, and baking soda, you’ll save money and avoid harsh chemicals. Plus, adding a water-repellent or softener can make your job even easier.