By Kevin Wisecarver
A quick wipe after a shower is easier than scrubbing weeks of soap scum. Regular care also gives you a chance to spot a worn seal or loose fitting. Use cleaning products suited to your glass and hardware so the routine doesn't damage the finish.
Fingerprints and dried water can make clean glass look marked. A regular routine keeps those deposits from becoming a bigger cleaning job.
How often should you clean?
The shower glass should be cleaned daily. Ideally, the best time to clean it is after each use. Wiping down the glass after a hot shower can also make it easier to remove any debris or grime, which can save you extra time. One of the best tips for shower doors is to avoid using abrasive cleaning tools and instead simply use a squeegee after each use.
Set a cleaning routine
Not everyone in your household will stick to wiping down the glass after each shower. To make sure your shower glass is well-maintained, choose a day of the week to thoroughly clean the shower, focusing on the entire shower space, including:
- Hardware
- Showerhead
- Shower glass
- Shower walls
- Shower door track
- Tile
And other areas.
Daily wiping helps with water spots. Set aside time to clean the rest of the enclosure too.
DIY custom shower door cleaning
Use the care instructions supplied for your glass and hardware. A household product is not automatically suitable for every coating or finish.
A DIY glass cleaning solution, a spray bottle, a soft sponge, a soft microfiber cloth, and a squeegee should be all you need to keep your shower glass doors clean and looking great all week long.
Taking care of mineral and soap scum build
Check the care instructions before using vinegar or another acidic cleaner. Some finishes and surrounding surfaces need a different product.
Use a cleaner approved for the installed glass, coating and hardware. Apply it as directed and rinse nearby surfaces as needed.
Avoid abrasive pastes or scouring tools unless the product manufacturer specifically permits them. A stubborn deposit is a reason to check the care guidance before scrubbing harder.
How not to clean
If you’ve neglected to keep your shower doors clean for some time, you may have a big cleaning job on your hands. But even if you have a tough job to tackle, you must avoid using any type of abrasive commercial cleaning products such as Ajax or Comet. Ideally, you should steer clear of any commercial cleaning product that contains cerium oxide. These abrasive cleaners can be effective when cleaning many other surfaces in the bathroom, but heavy-duty cleaning solvents can do some serious damage to the glass. You should also avoid using abrasive brushes, scouring pads, or sharp objects since these cleaning tools can scratch the glass.
Keep the routine manageable. A quick wipe after use and a regular clean are easier to stick with than an occasional long scrub.