How to Clean and Maintain a Glass Shower Door: A Comprehensive Guide
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your glass shower door are essential to ensure its longevity and continued functionality. From daily wiping down to weekly thorough cleaning, there are several steps you can follow to keep your shower door looking its best.
Daily Maintenance for Your Glass Shower Door
After drying yourself, use a towel to gently dry and polish the glass and frame. Hang the towel to dry, then place it in your laundry hamper. If you find yourself frequently using the shower, purchasing a high-quality window washing squeegee can make cleaning much easier.
I recommend using a brass-handled squeegee that is at least 6-inches wide, with a maximum of 8-inches. Perform a quick clean immediately after using the shower. Look for condensation and water residue on the inside of the glass, and ensure that the outside is free of moisture. A larger shower requires a greater slope to effectively wrap and secure a single-piece PVC shower liner.
Weekly Deep Cleaning and Maintenance
Once a week, take the time to thoroughly wash, dry, and polish your glass doors and frames. It's important to clean the tracks and the shower surround as well. Windex is a time-tested solution for cleaning glass, and it works wonders. Simply spray down the shower doors with Windex and wipe off the residue using a soft, lint-free cloth.
Alternative Cleaning Solutions
If you prefer a more natural cleaning approach, you can use vinegar. Most glass shower doors are lightly coated with soapy scum, which can be easily removed using natural products. Start by mixing dish soap (such as Dawn Platinum) with white vinegar in a spray bottle. This mixture is effective in blitzing away soap scum and can help maintain the cleanliness of your glass shower door.
Additional Tips and Considerations
To reduce soap scum and ensure a clearer glass surface, consider switching to a liquid body wash. After every use, use a squeegee or a microfiber towel to wipe down the glass doors. If necessary, you can also spray a cleaning solution into a spray bottle and keep it in the shower for daily use. Some additional hardware modifications can also enhance the durability of your shower setup. For example, using a granite sill that extends beyond the curb width can protect against water damage and curb tiles.
By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that your glass shower door remains clean, clear, and in excellent condition for years to come. Remember, regular upkeep is key to maintaining the aesthetic and practicality of your shower space.