Why Do Shower Screens Go Cloudy?

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Ever noticed your once crystal-clear shower screen turning cloudy? It’s a common issue that can make your bathroom feel a little less fresh and inviting. But don’t worry—cloudy glass is usually easy to fix once you know what’s causing it. Let’s dive into why it happens and how you can get that sparkling clean look back.

What Causes Cloudy Shower Screens?

There are a few culprits behind cloudy glass, and most of them come down to everyday use:

1. Hard Water Deposits

In many areas, tap water contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. When water droplets dry on your shower screen, they leave behind a whitish residue known as limescale. Over time, this builds up and creates that foggy, dull look.

2. Soap Scum

When soap mixes with water and body oils, it creates a sticky residue that clings to your shower screen. Traditional bar soaps are usually the worst offenders, but even body wash can leave a film if not rinsed properly.

3. Cleaning with the Wrong Products

Abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals might seem like a good idea, but they can actually damage the surface of your glass. This can cause micro-scratches that trap dirt and soap, making the glass look cloudy over time.

A modern bathroom featuring a cloudy glass shower screen with visible condensation and soap scum. The room has sleek white tiles, a large mirror, a bathtub, and a contemporary sink with a well-lit vanity area. Blurred reflections of greenery can be seen through the frosted glass.

How to Get Your Shower Screen Sparkling Again

The good news? You probably have everything you need at home to restore your shower screen. Here are a few tried-and-tested cleaning methods:

White Vinegar Spray:
Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the glass and let it sit for 5–10 minutes before wiping clean with a soft cloth. This helps dissolve hard water stains and limescale.
Baking Soda Paste:
Make a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply it to the cloudy areas, gently scrub with a non-abrasive sponge, and then rinse thoroughly.
Magic Erasers:
These are great for stubborn marks. Just dampen the eraser and gently rub the affected spots. Be sure to test it in a small area first to make sure it doesn’t scratch your glass.

Tips to Keep Your Shower Screen Clear

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some simple habits that can make a big difference:

Wipe Down After Each Shower:
Use a squeegee or a microfiber cloth to remove water droplets after every use. This stops mineral deposits from drying on the glass.
Switch to Liquid Soap:
Liquid soaps usually leave less residue than traditional bars, which means less soap scum to clean later on.
Deep Clean Weekly:
A quick once-over each week keeps build-up at bay and makes cleaning much easier in the long run.

How Ezy Glide Can Help

At Ezy Glide, we know a thing or two about keeping bathrooms looking their best. With over 50 years of experience, we custom-make shower screens and sliding doors right here in Sydney. Our products are built to last and designed with easy maintenance in mind.

We also offer EnduroShield®, a protective coating for your glass and metal surfaces. It’s been tested to last up to 10 years and makes cleaning much easier by repelling water, soap, and grime.

Final Thoughts

Cloudy shower screens might be a common bathroom nuisance, but they’re also completely fixable. With a few simple cleaning techniques and regular maintenance, you can enjoy that clear, streak-free shine every day. And if you’re after a more permanent solution, Ezy Glide’s quality shower screens and protective coatings are here to help.