At Angelo & Sons Doors and More, we are shower glass experts who have pretty much seen it all. Whether you just got a new glass shower or you want to make your current one last longer, we’re happy to offer you some simple maintenance tips to keep your glass looking great even after years of usage.
Daily Maintenance
The easiest way to care for shower glass costs almost nothing: simply use a squeegee after every shower.
Water droplets leave behind minerals when they dry, and those minerals can eventually create stubborn spots on the glass. A quick pass with a squeegee removes most of that water before it has a chance to dry. So, all it really takes is keeping the squeegee inside the shower so you don’t have to think about it, and just get in the habit of doing a quick once over, taking only about a minute or less to wipe the water to the floor of the shower.
Prevent Hard Water Spots and Mineral Buildup
Colorado’s water hardness varies significantly by region depending on local geology and whether the municipal supply uses surface water or groundwater. Boulder and Colorado Springs, for example, generally have relatively soft water, Denver sits in a middle ground with soft to moderately hard water, and southern areas, like Pueblo, have some of the hardest water in the state.
The issue here is that hard water can leave white spots, chalky deposits, or a hazy appearance on shower glass. If you let those deposits accumulate for months, you may need considerably more effort to remove them.
The care tip: Don’t wait for buildup to become obvious. Just like the above tip, be sure to squeegee regularly and give the glass a gentle cleaning on a routine basis.
Choose a cleaner that’s safe for your particular shower glass and any protective coating it may have. Avoid reaching for increasingly harsh chemicals just because a stain won’t disappear, because the wrong product can cause more trouble than the original buildup.
Keep Soap Scum From Taking Over
Soap, shampoo, body wash, and other products can leave a film on glass. Over time, that film will only accumulate more and create a dull appearance.
The care tip: Clean small amounts of residue regularly instead of trying to scrub away a thick layer later.
Protect the Glass From Scratches and Damage
Glass shower doors can handle everyday use, but abrasive cleaning tools and unsuitable products can scratch the surface or damage certain protective coatings.
The care tip: Stick with soft cloths (microfiber preferably), non-abrasive cleaning products, and the care instructions provided for your shower glass.
Skip abrasive powders, rough scouring pads, and improvised scraping tools unless the glass manufacturer specifically recommends them. When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions before trying a new cleaning product.
Don’t Forget the Hardware and Seals
While glass tends to get most of the attention, your shower door’s hardware and seals will also need care. Hinges, handles, tracks, seals, and caulking will inevitably collect soap residue and moisture.
The care tip: Wipe down hardware regularly and inspect seals and caulking from time to time.
Look for loose hardware, deteriorating seals, gaps, or signs of water escaping where it shouldn’t. Taking care of a small issue early can help prevent a more expensive (and troublesome) repair later.
Know When Cleaning Isn’t Enough
Mineral deposits and rough cleaning can eventually etch the glass surface, creating damage that ordinary household cleaners won’t be able to remove.
The care tip: If normal cleaning no longer restores the glass, stop scrubbing harder and consider professional advice. A professional can help determine whether you’re dealing with removable buildup or permanent surface damage, and they can also offer repair and replacement options.
A Simple Shower Glass Routine
A simple cleaning schedule can make a big difference in the long run:
- After every shower: Squeegee the glass and keep the bathroom ventilated.
- Once a week: Clean the glass with a suitable, non-abrasive cleaner and wipe down the hardware.
- Every few months: Check the hinges, tracks, seals, caulking, and edges for signs of wear.
- When you notice buildup: Deal with it early rather than later.
Ready to Start Fresh?
If you have questions about shower glass repair options or even shower design and installation, contact Angelo & Sons Doors and More. Our family-owned business proudly serves homeowners throughout the Denver metro area and can help you find the right solution for your home if you’re looking for something new.