Cut a lemon in half, then dip half the lemon in kosher salt. Rub the lemon directly on the shower door. Repeat with the other half if needed. The acidic lemon juice and abrasive salt help to break down hard water deposits.
Hard water describes water that contains a high concentration of dissolved minerals such as calcium and magnesium. When water dries on its own (evaporates), these minerals get left behind, forming those hard water or limescale deposits that create a cloudy appearance on the glass.
Many hotels use ammonia-based cleaning solutions because ammonia readily cuts through dirt and soap scum. Because of the way it dries, ammonia also decreases the possibility of streaks on glass.
Windex can be used on glass shower doors to help remove marks and streaks, however it may not be the best option for removing a build up of mineral deposits or soap scum.
Hard water is water that carries 10 or more grains per gallon of calcium and magnesium minerals. Slowly, calcium from hard water builds up on surfaces like shower doors, tubs, pipes, and other surfaces, creating a crusty layer called limescale.
CLR will work to dissolve the build-up layer by layer until it is all removed. Rinse your shower screen thoroughly with cold water between applications.
It's the minerals in the water building up over time that eventually leave that cloudy film on your glasses. CLR® Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover can remove that film and help keep the cloudiness from returning. Always read label instructions before use.
Instructions for Cleaning Cloudy or Foggy Drinking Glasses
Simply gather milky glasses, soak them in a vinegar solution, hand wash them and dry thoroughly to get rid of buildup.
No matter how clean you keep your shower, hard water stains are going to accumulate. And they can be very difficult to remove from your shower doors. But if you have a can of WD-40 Multi-Use product on hand, you can remove hard water stains from shower doors quickly and easily.
Combine ingredients: Add equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add dishwashing liquid: Pour 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid into the spray bottle. Let sit: Spritz solution onto shower door and let sit for 15 minutes. Wipe clean: After 15 minutes, use a microfiber cloth to wipe clean.
Before reaching for harsh cleaning chemicals, use white vinegar. This tried-and-tested household product is the best way to clean a shower screen and is highly effective at removing limescale. Always use distilled white vinegar as malt or cider vinegar won't clean as thoroughly and may stain surfaces.
For a homemade shower-door cleaner, mix distilled white vinegar (heated first) with the grease-cutting power of dish detergent, such as Dawn, in equal proportions. Pour the solution into a spray bottle (like this Better Homes & Gardens Glass Spray Bottle, $5, Walmart).
Dip some paper towels into the hot vinegar and adhere them to the glass door. The acid in the vinegar should soak into the limescale and loosen deposits. Wait 30 minutes to an hour to allow the vinegar to break down the limescale.
It's also best to avoid using scouring pads, abrasive brushes, or sharp objects while cleaning glass shower doors, as these can scratch the glass. While there are many commercial products available for tackling the scum and grime in your shower, you may also want to try some DIY eco-friendly options.
Natural solutions such as vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda can effectively remove dirt and grime from shower glass. Commercial cleaners are also available for those who prefer convenience over natural remedies.
Don't waste money on chemical glass cleaners, try this formula instead: 1/3 methylated spirits, a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and hot water. The methylated spirits helps reduce streaking and helps the glass to dry faster.
How do professionals clean showers? Professionals use acid-based cleaning solutions like vinegar for hard water spots and soap scum. For deep-set soap scum, cleaners will use heavy-duty detergents and degreasers. Bleach cleaning solutions are best reserved for cleaning the mold and mildew from grout.
Vinegar and paper towels – soak paper towels in vinegar and place them on your dried shower screens. Cover the entire area with paper towels, and add an extra layer. Leave on for a minimum of 45 minutes, but up to a few hours for tough limescale. Remove the paper towels and rinse your screen.
Baking soda is abrasive enough to remove grime, but won't damage the glass. Take 3 tablespoons of baking soda and mix with water to create a paste. Take your baking soda paste and apply it to the stained areas of your shower screen. Work it in a circular motion using a sponge.
White vinegar has good descaling properties. It is also easy to use; you just need to spread it undiluted onto your surface using a soft sponge, leave it for a few minutes, then rinse well. For even more descaling power, start by heating up the white vinegar in a pot. Then, apply it using a sponge or soft cloth.