Why is my shower screen cloudy?
A cloudy shower screen is usually covered by a mixture of hard-water minerals, soap and body-care products. Regular gentle cleaning can often restore clear glass, but old deposits or surface damage may need a different approach.
Is the cloudy layer limescale?
Hard water leaves minerals behind as droplets dry. They often appear as pale spots, streaks or a chalky film, especially around the lower edge of the screen. Soap can combine with those deposits and make the glass look dull.
If the marks feel slightly rough and improve when cleaned, they are likely to be surface deposits rather than damage within the glass.
How should I clean shower glass?
Start with warm water and a mild bathroom cleaner that is suitable for glass. Follow the product instructions, use a soft cloth or non-scratch sponge, then rinse and dry the screen. For heavier limescale, use a suitable descaler only after checking the screen manufacturer's guidance.
Keep strong cleaners away from natural stone, metal finishes, seals and fittings unless their instructions say they are compatible. Never mix cleaning products.
Could the glass be permanently marked?
Mineral deposits left for a long time can etch or stain the surface. Abrasive pads and harsh chemicals may also scratch glass or damage a protective coating. If the haze remains completely unchanged after careful cleaning, the surface may be etched rather than dirty.
A specialist may be able to polish some marks, but badly damaged glass can be more sensible to replace. Do not use a screen that is cracked, chipped or loose.
How can I stop cloudiness returning?
Use a squeegee after showering and wipe the lower edge where water collects. Regular light cleaning is easier on the glass than occasional aggressive scrubbing. Good ventilation also helps water dry more quickly.
If the screen has a factory-applied easy-clean coating, follow its care instructions because unsuitable chemicals can shorten the coating's life.
Quick shower-screen checklist
- Check whether the haze feels rough or improves with gentle cleaning.
- Use products labelled as suitable for shower glass.
- Avoid abrasive pads, blades and mixed chemicals.
- Protect nearby stone, seals and metal finishes.
- Rinse, dry and squeegee the glass regularly.
- Replace glass that is cracked, chipped or insecure.