How to Remove Hard Water Stains from Glass Windows

Hard water stains come off glass windows with white vinegar, lemon juice, or commercial lime scale remover applied with a soft cloth and thorough rinsing.

1. Pick Your Acid Attack. Pick white vinegar for light stains, lemon juice for moderate buildup, or a commercial lime scale remover for heavy deposits. Vinegar works best because its acidity dissolves mineral buildup without scratching glass.
2. Soak and Let Sit. Spray or wipe your chosen cleaner directly onto the stained glass. For vinegar, use it full strength or mix equal parts with warm water. Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the mineral deposits.
3. Work the Mineral Buildup. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or plastic scraper to work the stains. For stubborn spots, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, then scrub gently in circular motions. Never use steel wool or abrasive pads on glass.
4. Flush Every Last Drop. Wash away all cleaning residue with clean water. Use a garden hose for exterior windows or a spray bottle for interior glass. Any leftover cleaning solution will create new spots when it dries.
5. Streak-Free Shine Guaranteed. Wipe the glass completely dry with a lint-free cloth, paper towels, or a squeegee. Work from top to bottom in overlapping strokes to prevent streaking. Buff any remaining spots with a dry microfiber cloth.