How Do You Clean Glass Over Doors?

Cleaning glass over doors, like transoms or fanlights, typically involves standard glass cleaning techniques, often requiring reaching higher areas, and can be addressed effectively using common cleaning supplies or specialized methods for tougher stains.

Keeping the glass over your doors clean enhances curb appeal and allows natural light to brighten your space. The method you choose might depend on the amount of dirt or grime present.

Basic Cleaning Method

For general cleaning of glass over doors, you can use a simple solution.

• Supplies:

  • Spray bottle
  • Glass cleaner (commercial or homemade like vinegar and water)
  • Microfiber cloths or lint-free rags
  • Step stool or ladder (if needed for height)
  • Bucket (for homemade solution or rinsing)

• Steps:

  1. Prepare your cleaning solution: Fill a spray bottle with your preferred glass cleaner. A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water is a popular and effective homemade option.
  2. Protect surrounding areas: Place an old towel or drop cloth below the glass area to catch drips.
  3. Apply cleaner: Lightly mist the glass surface with your cleaning solution. Avoid soaking the glass, which can lead to drips and streaks.
  4. Wipe clean: Using a clean microfiber cloth, wipe the glass in a circular motion or up-and-down strokes to remove dirt and grime.
  5. Buff dry: Immediately use a second, dry microfiber cloth to buff the glass until it's completely dry and streak-free. Working quickly helps prevent streaks.
  6. Repeat if necessary: For slightly dirtier glass, you may need to repeat the process.

Using microfiber cloths is key as they are highly absorbent and lint-free, reducing the chances of leaving fibers behind.

Dealing with Thick Buildup or Stubborn Stains

Sometimes, glass over doors, especially if exposed to the elements or specific environmental factors, can accumulate thick grime, mineral deposits, or stubborn stains that a basic spray can't tackle. In such cases, a more robust approach is needed.

According to cleaning methods for tough glass stains:

• Combine baking soda and water in a bowl and stir until it forms a paste.
• If the glass has thick buildup, mix a paste of baking soda and water.
• Spread the paste on the glass using a brush or a spatula and let sit for 20 minutes or longer depending on the stain.

This method allows the mild abrasive quality of baking soda to work on the buildup, loosening it before wiping.

• Supplies for Stubborn Stains:

  • Baking soda
  • Water
  • Small bowl
  • Brush or spatula
  • Scraper (optional, use with caution on glass)
  • Microfiber cloths

• Steps for Thick Buildup:

  1. Prepare the paste: In a small bowl, combine baking soda and water, stirring until it forms a thick paste.
  2. Apply the paste: Use a brush or spatula to spread the baking soda paste directly onto the areas with thick buildup or stubborn stains.
  3. Let it work: Allow the paste to sit on the glass for at least 20 minutes. For very tough stains, you may need to leave it on longer to give it time to break down the grime.
  4. Gently scrub: After the dwell time, gently scrub the area with a soft brush or a damp cloth. If necessary, you can use a scraper held at a low angle to carefully lift stubborn spots, being extremely careful not to scratch the glass.
  5. Rinse/Wipe clean: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the baking soda paste residue. You may need to rinse and wring out the cloth multiple times.
  6. Basic clean & dry: Follow up with the basic glass cleaning method (spray cleaner and buff dry) to ensure the glass is clean and streak-free.

Important Considerations

• Safety First: When cleaning glass above doors, especially if using a stool or ladder, ensure it is stable and someone can spot you if necessary. Do not overreach.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While tackling tough stains, avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the glass or surrounding door frame materials.
• Check Weather: Clean glass on a cloudy day if possible. Direct sunlight can cause cleaners to dry too quickly, leading to streaks.

By combining basic techniques with targeted treatments like the baking soda paste for thick buildup, you can effectively clean the glass over your doors.

Cleaning Task	Recommended Method
General Dirt & Grime	Spray cleaner & microfiber cloth
Thick Buildup/Stains	Baking Soda Paste method
Drying & Streak-free	Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth