Protect Your Glass Shower Door From Hard Water Etching
A new glass shower door is crystal clear and a benefit to your bathroom. After a few months, though, the glass can become cloudy. The culprit is likely hard water.
As scientists explain it, hard water contains extra amounts of dissolved calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up on your glass shower's surface, which creates that cloud. Unfortunately, the minerals can etch the glass surface. Find out how to prevent this etching.
Wipe Away the Water
Hard water leaves behind mineral deposits when it evaporates. So, the goal is to get rid of the water before it has a chance to evaporate. An easy method for achieving that goal is to keep a squeegee near the shower. You can wipe away the water as soon as you're done showering. A soft, microfiber cloth works well, too. Launder the cloths weekly, though, so they don't get hard.
Seal the Surface
Another option is to apply a product that seals the surface of the glass. Though glass is an impervious material, its surface features minute pores. Sealers go in and seal those pores, which prevents the mineral deposits from etching the surface. Talk to glass installation contractors like Beach Glass & Window Company about sealant options. After-market sealers might void your warranty.
Apply a Water Repellent
You can also make the surface of the glass difficult for the water to adhere to. For instance, use a diluted form of car windshield wiper fluid to create a protective barrier. If you want to make your own, mix alcohol with water and a couple drops of tea tree oil as a spray. Either way, spray the repellent onto the surface and let it dry naturally. The water will bead up instead of adhering.
Try Homemade Cleaners
In that vein, many homeowners prefer home remedies for cleaning their shower. For once a week cleaning, consider a solution of water and white vinegar. Spray the solution onto the shower door, and use your microfiber cloth to wipe away any buildup. The acid in the vinegar will soften the hard water spots. If you don't like the smell, use lemon juice instead. It's similarly acidic.
Deep Clean Regularly
If you try some of the above tips, you shouldn't have to deep clean too often. However, at least a couple times a month you should give your glass shower door a thorough cleaning. You can use retail products such as the magic eraser sponges. Repurposed dryer sheets, which you wet down, work well, too. You could also use a mixture of baking soda and water with a nonabrasive sponge.
Keep your new shower door sparkly with the above cleaning methods.