Metro Detroit’s water is moderately hard on average, which is why shower glass in homes across Sterling Heights, Troy, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, Macomb Township, Warren, and Clinton Township so often shows white spots and haze after drying. This guide explains what’s happening—and exactly how to keep your doors crystal clear year‑round.
Why water spots happen here
- Local hardness: Detroit’s tap water averaged ~100 mg/L (ppm) total hardness in 2024 (min 74, max 114). That’s roughly 5.9 grains per gallon (gpg)—comfortably within the “moderately hard” range that tends to leave visible residue when water evaporates.
- What “moderately hard” means: USGS classifies 61–120 mg/L as moderately hard; dissolved calcium and magnesium are the culprits behind spots and scale.
The 60‑second, after‑shower routine (prevents most spotting)
- Rinse quickly with the hand shower (if available) to knock down soap residue.
- Squeegee from top to bottom (edges last). Dry the metal frame/hinges with a microfiber cloth. Industry glass‑care bulletins emphasize non‑abrasive tools and prompt removal of water/cleaner residue.
- Crack the door and run the fan for at least 20 minutes to speed drying (see ventilation section below).
Works for homes in Sterling Heights, Utica, Madison Heights, Royal Oak, and beyond.
Weekly clean: two safe methods
Method A — Standard glass (no special stone nearby)
- Mix 1:1 white vinegar + water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray glass, wait 3–5 minutes, wipe with microfiber, then rinse and dry.
- Avoid abrasives and metal pads; they can scratch glass and damage seals.
Important stone caution
If your shower has marble, travertine, or other calcareous stone, keep vinegar off those surfaces—the acid can etch stone. Use a pH‑neutral stone cleaner on stone areas and a damp towel “dam” at the base of the glass to catch drips.
Method B — Stone‑safe workflow
- Clean glass with a non‑abrasive commercial glass cleaner (alcohol or ammonia‑based per manufacturer guidance) and a soft cloth; keep chemicals away from stone.
Monthly protection & hardware care
- Hydrophobic protection: If your glass has a factory or aftermarket water‑repellent coating, follow the maker’s care instructions (avoid abrasives; use mild cleaners). These coatings make daily squeegeeing and weekly wipes faster. (Haworth)
- Check sweeps & seals: Worn bottom sweeps and gaps at vertical seals let water sit and dry on the wrong surfaces. Replace as needed—an inexpensive fix that reduces spotting on thresholds and tile.
- Hardware finish tips: Polished finishes show dried droplets more readily; many homeowners in Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills prefer brushed or satin finishes to help hide day‑to‑day spotting.
Ventilation: the quiet hero of clear glass
Moisture that lingers equals more spots and mildew. For Michigan homes, code‑minimum bathroom ventilation is 50 CFM (intermittent) or 20 CFM (continuous), exhausted to the outdoors. Use the fan during showers and for ~20 minutes after.
For broader home moisture control, EPA guidance is simple: vent bathrooms to the outside and reduce humidity to prevent mold growth.
When deposits are stubborn
- Try a longer dwell time with your chosen (non‑abrasive) cleaner, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Avoid steel wool, razor blades, or powdered abrasives on the glass—they can scratch.
- Severe etching or scale that doesn’t respond to cleaning may require professional restoration or glass replacement.
Longer‑term solution: address water hardness (optional)
A properly sized water softener reduces calcium and magnesium before they hit the shower, which can meaningfully cut spotting on glass and metal. Look for efficient, demand‑initiated models.
What not to mix (safety first)
Never mix bleach with vinegar (or ammonia). These combinations can release toxic gases; always use cleaners as directed and with ventilation. (CDC)
Quick checklist (print or save)
- Daily: Squeegee + fan (20 min).
- Weekly: Non‑abrasive clean (stone‑safe method if marble/travertine present).
- Monthly: Inspect sweeps/seals, refresh protectant if applicable.
- Optional: Consider a softener if spots persist.
See glass options in person
If you’re in Sterling Heights, Troy, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, or Macomb Township, stop by the showroom to compare glass, coatings, and hardware—and get tailored care tips for your home’s water and finishes.
Visit our showroom: 42624 Van Dyke Ave, Sterling Heights, MI 48314
