How to Remove Scratches from Glass Shower Doors

Shower glass can get scratched by using the wrong cleaning products or tools, or by a simple accident. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can try that can hide the appearance of surface scratches and other damage. However, keep in mind that some scratches may be too deep for simple fixes. If you've found deep scratches in your shower glass, replacing the shower door may be your best option.

Scratched shower glass can be tricky to repair, especially if you’ve never dealt with this issue. However, in cases of light scratches, there are some tricks you can try that will hide or minimize the appearance of scratches.

What Causes Scratches on Your Glass Shower Door?

Scratches on your frameless shower door can occur for a number of reasons, such as:

• Abrasive cleaning products
• Abrasive cleaning tools
• DIYers may accidentally scratch the glass when installing shower hardware
• Sharp-edged objects are dropped on the glass or strike the glass 
• Inexperienced shower door installer 

The most common cause of scratched shower glass is using the wrong cleaning techniques. While tempered glass is incredibly durable, if you use the wrong cleaning techniques, you can cause shallow scratches on the surface of the glass.

Steps to Take Before Removing Scratches

Before you attempt to treat the scratches, make sure you carefully inspect your shower door and clean it thoroughly using a soft cloth and a commercial glass cleaner or a 50/50 warm water and white vinegar solution. If the scratches are deep, simple home repair options may not be very effective, in which case you should contact the pros at GCS Glass & Mirror for glass door replacement options. 

Top DIY Remedies for Glass Shower Door Scratches

Shallow scratches on your frameless glass shower doors can be unsightly, completely ruining the elegant look and feel of your bathroom. The DIY remedies included here can be an instant fix for light scratches, easily masking their appearance and elevating the look of your shower door and your bathroom.

Toothpaste and a Clean Cloth

Using a soft cloth and a small amount of non-gel toothpaste, you can buff out the scratches in the glass using small circular motions. The grit in the toothpaste can remove light scratches in glass. After you’ve buffed the glass for a couple of minutes, rinse the surface with warm water.

Clear Fingernail Polish

Clear nail polish can also help to hide light scratches on your frameless shower door. To use, apply a thin layer of the polish, covering the entire scratch. Allow the tempered glass to dry for an hour. After an hour, use nail polish remover applied to a damp cloth and carefully remove any excess nail polish around the treated area.

Pumice Soap for Buffing

Pumice stones are a great alternative to sandpaper and are a good choice for light scratches on glass. To use, wet the pumice stone and rub the glass, using small circular motions for 3-5 minutes. Once completed, dry the surface of the glass using warm water.

Commercial Glass Polisher

Certain types of commercial glass polishers can also get the job done, reducing the appearance of shallow scratches on the surface of shower glass. Search for a glass polisher that contains cerium oxide. Use a microfiber cloth and apply the polish using circular motions to avoid leaving streaks behind. 

Baking Soda

Use one part warm water and one part baking soda, mixing well. With a soft cloth, apply the paste-like mixture to the scratched area, applying using circular motions. Any excess baking soda paste can be removed with warm water.

When It's Time to Call a Pro

You should contact a glass contractor if your frameless glass shower door has:

• Deep scratches
• Chips
• Cracks
• Pitting 

These are signs that the shower door should be replaced. This type of damage can worsen over time. While the damage may seem minor, it can have a major impact on the structural integrity of the glass. 

If the DIY solutions mentioned here did not help to mask the appearance of scratches, or there are signs of serious damage, it’s time to contact the glass experts at GCS Glass & Mirror. We can meet with you to discuss shower door replacement options and help you choose a new frameless shower door that will work with your style and budget.

Contact a Leading Glass Shower Door Provider Today for Help!

Some types of scratches on shower glass can easily be fixed with the right cleaning tools and products, while others can be a sign of serious damage that will require shower door replacement. If your shower glass is showing signs of damage, it may be time for an upgrade. If you’re ready to invest in a new frameless glass shower door, contact the pros at GCS Glass & Mirror today to learn more.