Comet is a popular, bleach-based cleanser that can handle a range of cleaning tasks. It has a reputation for being an effective cleaner thanks to its strong formula and ability to cut through grime. But is it a good idea to use Comet on glass shower doors? And if so, what’s the best way to go about it?
If your glass shower doors are untreated, it’s safe to use Comet to clean them. However, if your doors are tempered or have acid etching, protective film, or any other sort of special coating, it’s better to avoid using Comet. In such cases, use a mixture of white vinegar and water instead.
Let’s look at whether you can use Comet on your glass shower doors and how to clean them effectively. You’ll also learn about the best alternatives to using Comet that may be better for your glass shower door.
Can You Use Comet on a Glass Shower?
The answer is both yes and no. Here’s why:
Comet is a powerful bleach-based cleaner that can dissolve soap scum quickly with minimal scrubbing. However, the abrasives present in the powder formula can damage certain kinds of glass.
For example, if your glass shower door has a special coating, like an anti-scratch finish, you shouldn’t use Comet since the formula could scuff and scratch the finish.
Also, if your glass shower has an acid etching or protective film, Comet may wear away these coatings.
Tempered glass should also never come into contact with Comet, as it may suddenly shatter or weaken when exposed to bleach, and the abrasives can harm its surface.
So, if you have a special coating, acid etching, or tempered glass on your shower door, avoid using Comet. But if your glass is plain and untreated, it’s usually safe to use Comet to clean it.
How to Clean Your Glass Shower
If you decide to use Comet on your glass shower door, you’ll want to create a paste by heavily diluting the solution on a soaking wet soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
Always test the paste in an inconspicuous area first; if you don’t see any damage or discoloration, you can safely proceed.
To clean, follow these steps:
- Wet the glass with warm water, then add a generous amount of Comet directly onto a wet sponge or cloth.
- Work the paste into a rich lather on the cloth or sponge and apply it directly onto the glass by rubbing in circular motions. For tougher stains, you may need to let the Comet sit for several minutes before scrubbing.
- Take your time and work section by section. Pay special attention to areas with heavier soap scum buildup, like around the handles and hinges, and ensure the paste gets into all the nooks and crannies. Add more cleanser and water to your cloth as needed.
- Rinse the glass thoroughly with warm water, dry it off with a squeegee or soft cloth, and buff away any remaining streaks.
What’s the Best Cleaner for Glass Shower Doors?
The best cleaner for glass shower doors depends on the type of glass you have. You can use an all-purpose glass cleaner if your shower doesn’t have a special coating or etching (read our etched glass cleaning guide here).
However, if your shower door has coating or etching, it’s necessary to use a cleaning product specified by the manufacturer or a diluted vinegar solution.
Here are some of the best cleaners for glass shower doors:
- All-purpose glass cleaner: These cleaners effectively remove dirt, soap scum, and other debris from regular glass. Rain-X (on Amazon), Barkeeper’s Friend (on Amazon), and Perfect Glass (on Amazon) are three well-reviewed and effective all-purpose glass cleaners.
- Vinegar solution: This is an excellent option for glass shower doors with etching or a coating. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 5 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the glass and allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean, soft cloth.
- Specialty cleaners: For extra tough jobs, you may need a specialty cleaner like Invisible Glass (on Amazon), which is a glass stripper that will remove stubborn water stains, soap scum, and other buildup. CLR Brilliant Bath (on Amazon), which is formulated to remove soap scum and hard water stains, is another good choice.
No matter which cleaner you use, it’s essential to follow the directions on the label and make sure the area is well-ventilated, as some cleaners contain strong chemicals that can irritate the skin and eyes.