How to clean foggy glass to keep it shiny

The cleanliness of glass and windows greatly impacts the atmosphere of a home. Clean glass surfaces create a bright, well-maintained look in a room.  

On the other hand, if the glass becomes foggy, dull, or has stains stuck to it, natural lighting decreases, and the room's aesthetic is disrupted. 

Therefore, it is important to clean the glass regularly to ensure that mirrors and glass surfaces remain clean and shiny.  

This article will discuss the causes of foggy glass, various factors that affect it, and the steps to clean foggy glass for the comfort and aesthetics of your home. 
 

Causes of foggy glass

Foggy glass can often be a hindrance to maintaining a neat and bright home. Several factors cause glass to lose its clarity, from dust, and humidity, to stubborn stains. Below is a detailed explanation: 
 

Various factors that cause the glass to become foggy

Glass becomes foggy when dust, stains, and dirt accumulate on its surface. Additionally, high humidity can lead to mold growth or water spots.  

Stubborn stains from the wrong cleaning products or oxidation processes also worsen the condition of glass. 
 

Common factors that cause foggy glass

Here are some common factors that can cause the glass in your home to become foggy: 
 

1. Dust and dirt accumulation: When dust sticks to the glass surface, over time, the glass appears dull and is difficult to clean. 
2. High humidity conditions: Humid environments often cause mold to grow on glass surfaces, reducing the glass's clarity. 
3. Stains from cleaning liquids or inappropriate products: Using the wrong cleaning liquids can leave residue spread across the dirty glass or mirror surface. 
4. Oxidation or glass material wear: Older glass is prone to oxidation, making stains difficult to remove even after trying various cleaning methods.

 

How foggy glass affects the appearance of the home

Foggy glass not only reduces the aesthetic appeal but also blocks natural light from entering. As a result, the room looks darker and feels less comfortable. Regularly cleaning foggy glass will keep the home looking clean and bright. 
 

How to clean foggy glass

The right tools, materials, and cleaning techniques are necessary to clean foggy glass. Below is a complete guide: 
 

Tools and materials needed

To effectively clean glass, prepare the following materials: 
 

• Microfiber cloth: This soft tool is ideal for drying and cleaning glass without leaving scratches. 
• Glass cleaning tool: In addition to the microfiber cloth, you can also use the practical LILLNAGGEN glass cleaning tool from IKEA, which provides excellent results. 
• White vinegar and water: This natural combination is highly effective at removing stains and dirt stuck on glass. 
• Dish soap: Add a few drops to help clean off oil and stubborn stains. 
• Lemon juice: Provides a fresh scent while also killing germs on the glass surface. 
• Calcium hypochlorite powder: An option for cleaning glass with heavy stains. 

 

Step-by-step instructions for cleaning foggy glass

Here are the steps you need to follow to clean foggy mirrors or glass in your home: 
 

1. Remove dust with a microfiber cloth: Clean the glass from dust and dry dirt using a microfiber cloth or a damp cloth. This is an important step to prevent scratches when you begin scrubbing with the cleaning solution. 
2. Mix white vinegar and water: Mixing vinegar with warm water creates a natural solution that effectively cleans mirrors. 
3. Add dish soap: Pour a few drops of dish soap into the cleaning solution. This soap helps eliminate stubborn stains stuck on the glass surface. 
4. Spray and let the cleaning solution sit: Spray the cleaning solution onto the foggy and dull glass or mirror, and let it sit for a few minutes so that it can loosen the dirt on the surface. 
5. Scrub gently: Use a microfiber cloth to scrub the glass in circular motions. For stubborn stains, apply toothpaste to the area before scrubbing. 
6. Check the results and dry with a cloth: After cleaning, ensure the glass is free of stains. Use a clean and dry cloth to dry the surface and prevent any water spots. 

Read also: 5 Aesthetic Mirrors to Beautify Your Bathroom
 

Tips for keeping the glass clean

Here are some tips to help you maintain clean glass surfaces: 
 

1. Clean glass regularly: Perform regular cleaning at least once a week to prevent dust and dirt buildup. Focus on areas frequently exposed to dust, such as windows or bathroom mirrors. 
2. Use white vinegar and warm water: Mix white vinegar with warm water to remove stubborn stains. This solution not only cleans but also naturally kills germs. 
3. Take advantage of lemon juice: Mix lemon juice with a little water to clean the glass. The acidic properties of lemon help eliminate oil stains and leave a fresh scent. 
4. Avoid harsh chemical products: Choose cleaners specifically designed for glass or use natural ingredients. Avoid products with alcohol or ammonia that can damage the glass surface. 
5. Use toothpaste for stubborn stains: Apply toothpaste to a dry cloth and place it on the hard-to-remove stains. Gently rub using a microfiber cloth, then clean with warm water. 
6. Dry with a microfiber cloth: Use a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots from sticking to the glass surface. Make sure the glass is completely dry to prevent dust from sticking. 
7. Control room humidity: Use ventilation or a dehumidifier to reduce humidity, especially in bathrooms or kitchens. High humidity can trigger mold and water spots on glass. 

 

Alternative cleaning solutions for foggy glass and windows

Some natural materials can be used as safe and effective glass cleaners. Below are simple alternatives for cleaning foggy glass at home: 
 

• Using vinegar and water as a natural solution: White vinegar is a natural material that can clean glass and kill germs. By mixing vinegar with warm water, you can create an effective solution for cleaning glass and maintaining its clarity. 
• Commercial cleaners vs. natural cleaners: Commercial cleaners often provide instant results, but natural materials like white vinegar and lemon juice are better for health and the environment. You can try cleaning foggy glass using a combination of both types of cleaners to achieve the best results. 

Read also: Inspirations for minimalist home interior design and the latest modern styles
 

Bring balance and harmony to your home with clean glass

Cleaning foggy glass is not only about aesthetics but also about creating a comfortable environment that supports your well-being.  

By using natural materials like white vinegar, dish soap, and lemon juice, you can ensure that your glass remains clean, bright, and healthy.  

To complement the atmosphere in your home, find quality mirrors and cleaning tools at IKEA, designed to bring modern aesthetics into your living space.