How to clean glassware from buildup: 2 home methods for stubborn stains

How to remove hard water stains from glassware

There are several methods to restore crystal-clear transparency to glassware, but the choice of the right method depends on how old the stain is.

However, both methods require only common household items - vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, and distilled water.

The acids in distilled white vinegar or fresh lemon juice help dissolve minerals that have adhered to the glass and left white stains.

Moreover, vinegar has a disinfecting effect. Meanwhile, baking soda thickens the consistency of the homemade solution, making it more effective on stubborn stains.

Using vinegar to remove deposits from glasses

Start by creating a glass cleaning solution by mixing food-grade distilled white vinegar or lemon juice with distilled water in a spray bottle in a 1:1 ratio.

Turn on fans or ensure good ventilation in the area if you dislike the smell of vinegar.

For a straightforward method, fill the kitchen sink with vinegar and water solution and immerse the glasses. Leave them in the solution for 30 minutes, then rinse and immediately dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth.

However, if you only have enough vinegar to make a small amount of solution, use a spray bottle. Choose a moderately warm day for this method to prevent the vinegar solution from drying too quickly.

To remove hard water stains from glassware, spray the glass, ensuring the entire surface is evenly covered.

Leave the solution on the glass for at least 30 minutes. Then rinse the solution off with water and wipe the glassware dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth to collect droplets.

How to remove water stains from dishware with baking soda

If water stains are stubborn, it's effective to make a paste with baking soda to enhance the cleaning power of vinegar.

Firstly, spray the dishware with a vinegar solution - mix equal parts distilled water and food-grade vinegar. After spraying the glassware, wait for 30 minutes.

During this time, prepare a baking soda paste by mixing distilled water with baking soda in a 1:3 ratio.

Apply the paste to the glassware using circular motions with a soft-bristled brush or sponge. For intricate details and smaller glass items, an old clean toothbrush can also be used.

Allow the paste to dry, then reapply it. Wait approximately 10 minutes for the paste to dry, then spray it with undiluted vinegar.

Gently scrub the glassware with a sponge to remove the stains. Afterwards, rinse the glasses with clean water and dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.

These methods can also be used not only for cleaning glasses but also for other glass items such as bathroom cabinet doors or windows.

Read also about how often you should change your dish sponge.