How to Clean a Glass Shower Door (and Keep It Clean)
Three habits keep a glass shower door clear for years: an ammonia-free cleaner, a microfiber cloth, and a squeegee after every shower.
The routine
- Squeegee after every shower. Run a squeegee down the glass, top to bottom, while it is still wet. It takes 30 seconds and stops hard water spots and soap scum before they start.
- Clean weekly with an ammonia-free cleaner. Spray an ammonia-free glass cleaner like CRL S50 and wipe with a clean microfiber cloth like the CRL MFW12. Ammonia can damage protective glass coatings and leaves streaks.
- Remove hard water spots. If spots or haze have built up, rub on a water stain remover like CRL WSR1 with a damp cloth, then rinse well. Test a small hidden spot first.
- Wipe the seals and hardware. Clean seals, hinges and handles with mild soap and water and a soft cloth. Skip abrasive pads, bleach and harsh chemicals: they cloud vinyl seals and dull the hardware finish.
- Dry and ventilate. Leave the door open or run the fan after showering so the seals and corners dry out. Moisture is what lets mildew grow.
What not to use
- Ammonia-based glass cleaners. They can damage protective coatings on shower glass and leave a streaky film.
- Abrasive pads or scouring powder. They scratch glass and cloud vinyl seals.
- Paper towels. They leave lint; use microfiber or lint-free wipes.
When cleaning isn't enough
If the haze stays after cleaning, the glass may be etched, which cleaning can't fix. And if the seals stay yellow, black or stiff after cleaning, it is time to replace them.
Products in this guide
Common questions
What is the best way to clean a glass shower door?
Squeegee it after every shower, and once a week clean it with an ammonia-free glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
Why should I use an ammonia-free glass cleaner on a shower door?
Ammonia can damage the protective coatings many shower doors have and tends to leave streaks. An ammonia-free cleaner like CRL S50 cleans without leaving a film.
How do I remove hard water spots from shower glass?
Use a water stain remover like CRL WSR1 Bio-Clean with a damp cloth, then rinse. It removes mineral deposits but cannot fix glass that is already etched.
Should I squeegee my shower door every day?
Yes. Squeegeeing after every shower is the single best way to prevent hard water spots and soap scum.