The Best Way To Remove Hard Water Stains From Glass Is Already In Your Kitchen

If you've ever cringed at the sight of hard water stains on glass surfaces, you're not alone. Hard water is a common occurrence, and a frustrating one at that. This "hardness" is caused by high levels of minerals, namely calcium and magnesium, which can accumulate on surfaces over time. To make things even more irritating, the calcium in hard water also interacts with soap, leaving behind an unpleasant film of soap scum. So much so that you might find yourself using even more soap to get rid of stains — but this wouldn't be the right approach if you really want to say goodbye to hard water marks forever.

First, it's worth looking into water softener systems if your budget and living situation allow for one. Otherwise, your best bet is to take the DIY route and learn how to remove hard water stains from drinking glasses, windows, shower doors, and more. You don't even need fancy supplies or cleaning products, either. Hard water stains don't stand a chance against one little-known cleaning hack, and it's all thanks to white vinegar.

Before exploring how to use this cleaning hack, it's worth learning why it works. As mentioned, hard water contains high amounts of minerals. When these minerals come into contact with glass, they create bonds, resulting in those unsightly cloudy stains. These stains are alkaline, while vinegar is acidic. This means the vinegar can dissolve the mineral bonds in the stains, allowing you to remove them with ease.

To use vinegar to get rid of hard water stains, combine equal parts white table vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle. Additionally, it's extremely important to avoid tap water and use the distilled kind, as it doesn't contain minerals. (Remember, you're trying to remove minerals from the glass!) Spray the vinegar mixture on your glass surface, whether it be a drinking glass or a shower door. Let it sit for at least 30 seconds, then wipe it with a microfiber cloth. While you're at it, consider folding the cloth into quarters before you clean. When one part is dirty, move on to the next section and continue wiping the glass. This will help you get the most out of the hack and easily clean and remove hard water stains.