When it comes to cleaning your glass shower doors, some glass cleaning supplies work wonders, while others quietly cause damage that dulls their shine over time. It’s easy to assume that any cleaner will get the job done, but certain products contain harsh chemicals or abrasive ingredients that may scratch, stain, or weaken the glass.
Using the wrong supplies may even strip away protective coatings designed to repel water and prevent soap scum buildup. Knowing what not to use is as important as knowing what to use, especially if you want to preserve the clarity and longevity of your shower doors.
So, before you grab the nearest spray bottle or scrub pad, take a moment to learn which glass cleaning supplies do more harm than good. Keep reading to discover what you should avoid when cleaning your glass shower doors.
1) Newspaper and paper towels
You may have heard the old cleaning tip that newspaper gives glass a streak-free shine, but when it comes to your shower doors, that’s a myth best left in the past.
While newspapers might have worked decades ago when printing ink contained different compounds, today’s papers break down quickly when wet. The result is a soggy mess that leaves behind small paper fibers, smudges, and even traces of ink on your clean glass.
Paper towels aren’t much better. Though they seem convenient, they tend to shed lint and tiny fibers that cling to the glass surface, leaving a hazy or streaked finish.
Over time, this residue attracts dust and grime, undoing your hard work and dulling your shower’s shine. Instead of reaching for paper products, opt for a high-quality microfiber cloth. It’s reusable, lint-free, and designed specifically for delicate surfaces like glass, helping you achieve a flawless finish without the frustration.
2) Water
It’s tempting to think that plain water is the safest, most natural way to clean, but it doesn’t do much good for glass shower doors.
In fact, relying solely on water often makes the glass look worse. Tap water — especially hard water — contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that dry into chalky spots and streaks. These mineral deposits build up over time, leaving your doors looking cloudy or spotted, no matter how often you wipe them down.
Using only water also fails to break down soap scum, oils, and grime that collect on shower doors after daily use. Without a mild cleaner to cut through those residues, you’re left with streaks and film that catch the light and dull the glass’s natural clarity.
For the best results, use a gentle, non-abrasive glass cleaner designed for bathroom use. Then, finish with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent new water spots from forming.
3) Ammonia and bleach
While powerful cleaning agents like ammonia and bleach are common household staples, they’re far from ideal for cleaning glass shower doors.
In fact, the American Lung Association warns that repeated exposure to these chemicals can cause or worsen respiratory issues over time. The strong fumes may irritate your eyes, nose, and throat, especially in a confined space like a bathroom with limited ventilation.
Even more concerning, mixing ammonia and bleach together is extremely dangerous. When combined, they release toxic chloramine gas — a substance that can trigger coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and, in severe cases, long-term lung damage or death.
This chemical reaction happens quickly and can occur accidentally if you use multiple cleaners one after another without rinsing thoroughly between applications.
To protect your health and home, always read the labels on your cleaning products before using them. Avoid mixing different cleaners, even if they seem mild, and choose safer alternatives specifically designed for glass. A gentle, non-abrasive glass cleaner paired with a soft microfiber cloth will give you a spotless finish without risking your safety.
So, what should I clean with instead?
Now that we’ve discussed the worst cleaning supplies you can use on your glass shower doors, let’s go over some safe alternatives. We have two recipes for simple, safe, DIY cleaning solutions you can make with items you may already have right in your home.
Dish soap and vinegar
This first recipe uses dish soap to break down soap scum and vinegar to further dissolve any residue and leave behind a shiny finish. To make this solution, do the following:
- Mix one part distilled vinegar and one part dish detergent in a spray bottle and spray it on your shower windows and frame.
- Let the solution sit for at least 20 to 30 minutes.
- Lastly, scrub the area clean with a cloth.
Lemon juice
This second solution will leave even the dingiest of shower doors squeaky clean and smelling fresh. It utilizes the acid in lemon juice to break down the bacteria and dirt found in soap scum, making this a natural and effective remedy. To make this cleaner:
- Mix three tablespoons of lemon juice with one cup of water.
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray your shower door and frame, if you have one.
- Let the spray sit for at least five minutes.
- Wipe the solution away with a sponge, then buff your shower doors to a shine with a microfiber cloth.
Using the right glass cleaning supplies and techniques will keep your shower doors clear, bright, and free from damage. But even the best care can’t reverse years of wear or restore severely scratched or cloudy glass. If your shower doors still look dull or outdated despite your best efforts, it may be time for an upgrade with a Utah glass company.
That’s where Murray Glass comes in as your Utah glass company to restore your glass shower doors.
Let Murray Glass help — we’re your Utah glass company
If you’ve used some of the worst cleaning products on your shower doors, they may already show signs of wear — scratches, cloudiness, or stubborn buildup that won’t come off. Instead of settling for glass that looks dull or damaged, it might be time to refresh your bathroom with a beautiful new installation.
At Murray Glass, we specialize in designing and installing custom glass shower doors that transform ordinary bathrooms into stunning, spa-like spaces. Our team combines precision craftsmanship with high-quality materials to create glass that looks flawless and withstands everyday use.
Whether you’re replacing old doors or planning a complete upgrade, we’ll help you choose the perfect design to complement your style and layout.
Contact Murray Glass today to schedule your free consultation and discover how new shower doors can elevate your home’s comfort, appearance, and value. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Salt Lake City, Utah, and surrounding areas. Let us help you today!
