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The Best Way to Get Rid of Scum Buildup & Hard Water Stains for Glass Shower Doors

Chris Anzalone

Most glass surfaces can be cleaned easily with an ammonia-based glass cleaner and some paper towels, but shower doors present unique challenges. Unlike other glass surfaces, they can accumulate large deposits of soap scum that resist conventional cleaning products.

White vinegar dissolves hard water deposits.

Since showers have so much exposure to water, hard water deposits can also become a problem. With the right solutions, though, you can remove even the most stubborn stains from your shower door.

Tip

For excessive staining, including thick, stubborn deposits, mix 1 gallon of water with 1 cup of ammonia, 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of vinegar. Use that as your cleaning solution.

  1. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts of water and white vinegar. Shake the bottle to mix the solution thoroughly. White vinegar softens even the most difficult soap scum and dissolves mineral deposits.

  2. Spray your shower door inside and out, wherever soap scum and water stains appear. Allow the white vinegar to penetrate the soap scum and water deposits for about 30 minutes.

  3. Scrub your shower door with a wet, soft cloth to remove the cleaning solution, soap scum and any residue left behind by the mineral deposits. Keep a bucket of water on hand to rinse your sponge as needed.

  4. Dry the glass door thoroughly. Water stains form because hard water leaves behind trace minerals that remain on the surface. To prevent these stains from forming, dry the shower completely by hand and don't allow it to air dry. Wipe down your shower door after each use to further prevent water spotting.

  5. Wipe down your entire shower door on both sides with baby oil. This will prevent new soap scum from forming and keep your shower door looking clean and transparent.

The Drip Cap

  • Most glass surfaces can be cleaned easily with an ammonia-based glass cleaner and some paper towels, but shower doors present unique challenges.
  • Unlike other glass surfaces, they can accumulate large deposits of soap scum that resist conventional cleaning products.
  • Keep a bucket of water on hand to rinse your sponge as needed.
  • Dry the glass door thoroughly.