Hard Water Stain Removal Methods For The Everyday Homeowner

Before and after comparison of hard water stain removal

Hard water stain removal can be a daunting task. You’ve just gone through with your favorite window cleaning solution and towel just to realize your job isn’t finished yet. You peer through your sliding glass door or window where the rain or sprinklers have been hitting your glass and see it…hard water stains.

What are hard water stains and how are they formed? Hard water stains are minerals left behind after water has evaporated from the surface of glass. Left on glass, these minerals can actually bond to the glass and can become difficult or even impossible to remove.

What can you, the average homeowner do to remove and prevent future stains?

1. Vinegar – A mild acid that is safe to handle, can be used to dissolve the calcium build-up. Apply some white vinegar to a sponge and gently scrub the affected area until the pane is clear. Follow with a rinse of distilled water and buff dry with a lint-less cloth.
2. Baking Soda – Use as an abrasive for the more stubborn stains. Mix into a paste and apply with a sponge (Be sure not to use the back-side of a sponge as it was intended for dishes, not windows and can scratch the panes of your windows) and gently agitate the stain until the glass is clear again. Follow with a rinse of distilled water and buff dry with a lint-less cloth.
3. Muriatic Acid – A medium strength acid, available at most home supply and pool stores. For this application you will need to implement a few safety measures; you will need to wear eye protection, a respirator, and chemical resistant gloves. Apply the acid carefully to a sponge,being mindful where any drips might land. Scrub the stains with the dampened sponge until all staining dissolves, rinse with distilled water (do not let the acid dry on the glass) and buff dry with a lint-less cloth.

Call a professional Window Cleaner – If all these methods fail, or you just don’t want to deal with the hassle, don’t fret. Window cleaning isn’t usually high on the list of activities that people enjoy. A professional window cleaner has the knowledge and tools to complete the job in safe and timely manner.

Brandon Scott, owner of ShinePro Window Cleaning