There’s something undeniably captivating about the pristine clarity of gleaming glass. Clean glass surfaces elevate any space’s aesthetics, whether the expansive view from a glass floor or the sleek lines of commercial glass balustrades. However, achieving that perfect, streak-free shine requires more than a casual swipe with a cloth.

At Glass by Design, we understand the nuances of caring for architectural glass and are here to share our expertise. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential tools, tried-and-true techniques, and preventative measures to ensure your glass surfaces remain as dazzling as the day they were installed. Let’s dive into the art of how to clean glass and discover what it takes to maintain its timeless allure.

What you’ll need

To achieve professional-quality results, having the right tools and knowing what to use to clean glass is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to clean glass surfaces effectively:

• Microfibre Cloths: The ultra-soft fibres trap dust and dirt without scratching the surface, ensuring a streak-free finish.
• Squeegee: Helps remove excess water and cleaner, preventing streaks and ensuring an even, clear finish.
• Cleaning Solutions: The right cleaning solution is essential for maintaining the clarity and longevity of your glass surfaces.
• Vinegar and Water: A simple yet effective homemade solution. Mix equal parts of distilled vinegar and water in a spray bottle for a natural, streak-free cleaner.
• Commercial Glass Cleaners: Available in various formulations, these cleaners are designed to tackle specific glass-cleaning challenges, such as hard water stains or grease.
• DIY Mixtures: For tougher stains, a mixture of water, dish soap, and a small amount of rubbing alcohol can work wonders.

Cleaning techniques

Achieving a flawless, streak-free shine on glass surfaces requires more than just the right tools; it also involves mastering proper cleaning techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean glass like a pro:

• Dusting: Start by dusting the surface with a dry microfibre cloth to remove loose dirt and debris that could cause scratches during cleaning.
• Applying Cleaner: Spray your chosen cleaning solution onto the glass. For large surfaces, work in sections to prevent the cleaner from drying too quickly.
• Squeegee Use: Start from the top and work your way down using the squeegee. Hold the squeegee at an angle and use smooth, overlapping strokes. Wipe the blade with a clean cloth after each pass to avoid streaks.
• Finishing Touch: After squeegeeing, use a dry microfibre cloth again to wipe down the edges and any remaining streaks or spots.

Pro Tips:

• To easily identify streaks, use vertical strokes on one side of the glass and horizontal strokes on the other.
• Avoid using circular motions with the cloth, which can lead to streaks and uneven cleaning.
• Always avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the glass.
• Clean glass on a cloudy day or in the shade. Direct sunlight can cause the cleaner to dry too quickly, leaving streaks.
• Pay special attention to the edges and corners, as these areas often collect dirt and grime.

With these techniques, you can maintain the clarity and shine of your glass surfaces. But what about the more stubborn stains and minor scratches? Let’s explore how to tackle those.

Stain and scratch removal

Removing stains

Different types of stains require different treatments. Common culprits include hard water stains, mineral deposits, grease, and everyday smudges. Identifying the type of stain is the first step in selecting the right removal method.

Removal Techniques:

• Hard Water Stains: These are often the result of mineral deposits from water. A solution of equal parts vinegar and water can help dissolve these deposits. Apply the solution with a spray bottle, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe away with a microfibre cloth.
• Grease and Fingerprints: A mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap can be effective for greasy smudges. Apply the mixture, gently scrub with a soft cloth, and rinse with clean water.
• Persistent Stains: A baking soda paste (made from baking soda and water) can be gently rubbed onto tougher stains. Use a soft cloth and circular motions, then rinse thoroughly.

Addressing scratches

Before attempting any scratch removal, assess the depth of the scratch. Minor surface scratches can often be addressed with DIY methods, while deeper scratches typically require professional attention.

DIY Solutions:

• Toothpaste: Non-gel toothpaste can act as a mild abrasive for light scratches. Apply a small amount to a damp cloth and gently rub the scratch in a circular motion. Wipe away the residue with a clean, damp cloth and dry with a microfibre cloth.
• Cerium Oxide: This is a more specialised option for glass polishing. It’s a fine powder that, when mixed with water, forms a paste that can polish out minor scratches. Apply the paste with a polishing pad, working in circular motions until the scratch diminishes.

Professional Help:

It’s best to consult a professional glass repair service or your glass installer for deeper scratches or when DIY methods don’t suffice. Professionals, like the team at Glass by Design, have the tools and expertise to polish out the scratches or replace the affected glass section, ensuring a seamless finish.

Preventative maintenance

Regular care and preventative measures can help avoid common issues like scratches, stains, and dullness. Here’s how to maintain the beauty and clarity of your glass features:

Regular dusting & immediate cleaning

Dust and debris can accumulate on glass surfaces, leading to potential scratches. Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to dust glass surfaces gently. Address spills and smudges promptly to prevent staining. Keep a spray bottle of glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth handy for quick touch-ups.

Protective coatings

Consider applying a hydrophobic coating or sealant to your glass surfaces. These coatings repel water, reduce the appearance of fingerprints, and make cleaning easier. They can also provide a protective layer that helps prevent scratches and stains.

Routine checks

Regularly inspect your glass surfaces for signs of wear, such as chips, cracks, or scratches. Promptly addressing these issues can prevent further damage and the need for costly repairs. Professional inspections can ensure architectural glass features like glass floors or commercial balustrades remain safe and aesthetically pleasing.

Seasonal cleaning

Thorough seasonal cleaning can remove accumulated dirt and grime from outdoor glass features or glass in high-traffic areas. Pay special attention to windows, glass doors, and outdoor installations. A mild detergent and warm water can effectively clean these areas, followed by a rinse and a squeegee finish.

Create stunning glass structures with Glass by Design

Glass by Design is your expert in architectural glass. We specialise in creating visually stunning architectural glass features for residential and commercial spaces. Contact us today to bring your glass ideas to life.