Glass shower doors fog, streak and stain quickly because minerals from hard water bond to the surface. Without regular prevention, this residue becomes harder to remove over time. If your shower doors look cloudy or stained despite regular cleaning, you’re not alone. Hard water and soap residue are common problems in Australian bathrooms.

With the right approach, you can restore clarity and shine to your bathroom. Here’s a practical guide to keeping your shower doors spotless.

Why shower doors get stained

Glass shower doors stain quickly because water minerals and soap residue bond to the surface over time, with hard water and humid bathrooms accelerating this process.

• Hard water: Minerals like calcium and magnesium leave cloudy white marks.
• Soap scum: Soap mixes with minerals in water, creating stubborn residue.
• Mould and mildew: Bathrooms’ damp environment can encourage growth along seals and frames.

Understanding the causes helps you choose the best cleaning method.

How to clean glass shower doors: The basics

A simple routine clean can prevent build-up:

1. Mix a solution. Equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray generously. Cover the glass, especially where soap scum is visible.
3. Wait 10 minutes. Let the solution break down residue.
4. Scrub gently. Use a microfibre cloth or non-abrasive sponge.
5. Rinse and dry. Wipe with a squeegee to prevent streaks.

For a streak free finish, wipe with a vinegar-dampened microfibre cloth followed by a dry one. This two-step method is commonly used in high-humidity homes to reduce water marks.

How to clean glass shower doors with hard water stains

Hard water stains can be stubborn, but vinegar works wonders.

1. Warm the vinegar slightly before spraying. It’s more effective this way.
2. For extra power, use baking soda as a gentle abrasive, followed by vinegar to dissolve mineral residue. Avoid mixing them together for extended soaking, as this reduces effectiveness.
3. Use a lemon cut in half as a natural scrubber - the citric acid helps dissolve mineral deposits.
4. For particularly heavy build-up, apply a paste of bicarb soda and water and leave for 20 minutes before rinsing. This is a frequently recommended approach for etched-in mineral deposits.

If stains won’t shift, it might be time for a professional house cleaning to restore the shine.

How to clean glass shower doors soap scum

Soap scum leaves a dull, filmy look. Here’s how to clear it:

1. Spray the door with vinegar solution.
2. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and scrub the scummy areas.
3. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a squeegee.

For ongoing prevention, keep a squeegee in the shower and wipe doors down daily. Many cleaning experts also recommend switching to liquid body washes rather than bar soaps, as they produce less residue and minimise soap scum formation. If you're struggling to keep on top of the cleaning, you could also invest in a Daily Shower Cleaner product which you spray following each shower or hire a professional cleaner can restore clarity using specialised solutions designed for hard water areas.

Extra tips for a sparkling finish

• Always dry doors after cleaning to avoid streaks.
• Avoid harsh abrasives - they can scratch the glass.
• Use a protective spray or homemade solution (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water, plus a few drops of dish soap) weekly to prevent build-up.

When to call in the professionals

Bathrooms can be tough to keep on top of. Bark can also help you find professional cleaners for regular bathroom maintenance or end-of-lease cleaning when DIY isn’t enough. 

Final word

Clean glass shower doors make a noticeable difference to how fresh and well-kept your bathroom feels. With regular upkeep and the right techniques, you can prevent staining and maintain clarity for longer. But sometimes professional cleaning is the simplest way to restore shine. Bark helps you connect with experienced cleaners who specialise in bathroom and shower cleaning.