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Not all shower glass cleaners are created equal, some can do more harm than good.
That “powerful” formula promising to obliterate soap scum? It might also be quietly eating away at your silicone seal, eventually leading to water leakage.
The wrong cleaner can also dull your glass clarity or leave behind a stubborn film that makes future cleaning a nightmare.
Let's talk about which specific chemicals to avoid and why.
How Not to Clean Shower Glass: Avoid These Cleaner Ingredients
Be sure to check the list of active and inactive ingredients on a cleaner (even if it says it’s for showers) to ensure it doesn’t contain any of the following chemicals:
Please Note: Concentrations of each substance and solution can vary the amount of corrosion or degradation of the components, sealants, and/or product finish.
Naphtha
- Can dissolve silicone and could lead to leakage over time as silicone sealant degrades
Hydrogen Peroxide Solution (Household Peroxide)
- Can corrode metal, even at low concentrations
Toluene
- Can dissolve or degrade protective coatings on glass, especially water-repellent coatings (like Spot Guard)
- Can dissolve silicone and could lead to leakage over time as silicone sealant degrades
Ethyl Acetate
- Can dissolve or degrade protective coatings on glass, especially water-repellent coatings
- Can dissolve silicone and could lead to leakage over time as silicone sealant degrades
Lye (Sodium Hydroxide)
- Extremely caustic and can etch or corrode glass surface, leaving permanent damage
- Can dissolve silicone and could lead to leakage over time as silicone sealant degrades
- May damage finish on powder-coated or other types of coated metals
Acetone
- Dissolves silicone, may damage seals or cause leakage over time
So, what is the best way to clean your shower door glass? Keep it simple.
How to Clean Shower Door Glass
1) Use a squeegee after every shower
Wipe away excess water and soap residue from your glass panels and floor of the unit.
This post-shower habit not only enhances the appearance of your glass shower door but also helps reduce accumulation and simplifies routine cleaning.
Consider upgrading your shower glass door unit to one with Spot Guard water-repellant. You’ll need less regular cleaning, and it will reduce hard water spots, stains, mold, soap scum, and limescale build-up.
2) Periodically clean your glass
Use mild detergent, like dish detergent, with a soft cloth and water to clean shower door glass.
Never use bristly brushes or rough sponges. Use only non-abrasive cloth or sponge and always rinse surfaces after cleaning.
(Avoid using the shower head to rinse the glass, especially handheld ones, to prevent water overflow in the bottom track.)
A final squeegee and wipe down with a soft cloth and your glass will sparkle!
Can Vinegar Be Used to Clean?
Vinegar diluted with water may be used to clean your glass shower door.
Can Window or Mirror Cleaners Clean Shower Glass?
Wondering if that blue spray will get the job done in your shower? Always check the ingredients first.
Be sure your glass or mirror spray does not include any of the chemicals listed in What NOT to Use for Cleaning Glass Shower Doors.
Before cleaning your shower door glass with any products, test a small, inconspicuous area.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your shower and glass panels doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple products and a little time are all you need.
Regularly cleaning your shower with gentle products will help maintain its appearance and functionality for years to come.
If you have any doubts about a shower door glass cleaner, contact our Delta® Customer Experience team before using.
