Homeowners exploring custom shower glass options often ask, “Can I get glass that never shows water spots or soap scum?” It’s a fair question—after all, who doesn’t want that just-cleaned sparkle every day without the upkeep? The truth is, no glass is completely maintenance-free, even with a coating. But don’t worry—we’re here to clear up what glass coatings can do, what they can’t, and whether they’re worth considering for your next bathroom upgrade.
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What Are Shower Glass Coatings?
Shower glass coatings are treatments designed to reduce buildup of water spots, soap scum, and grime. They create a barrier between the glass surface and the elements that usually cause your doors to look streaky or cloudy.
At Alluring Glass, we install two main types of coatings:
1. Topical Coatings
- Applied after installation (like waxing a car)
- May be one- or two-part solutions
- Temporary—reapplication is needed every few months
- Budget-friendly but requires consistent maintenance
2. Infused (Baked-In) Coatings
- Applied before the glass is tempered
- Bonded into the glass surface for long-lasting results
- Often come with a manufacturer’s warranty
- Provide better resistance to etching and buildup over time
What Can I Really Expect From a Coated Shower Door?
While coatings do help reduce how quickly your glass shows buildup, they don’t eliminate cleaning. That’s a common myth.
“It’s highly debatable whether any coating—topical or baked-in—truly makes glass easier to clean,” says Jerry Beerman, owner of Alluring Glass, who’s tested every type of coating in real-life home settings.
Here’s what to realistically expect:
- Glass will still need weekly cleaning to prevent buildup.
- Harsh cleaners can still damage coated glass, especially over time.
- The benefit is in added protection, not total cleaning elimination.
Proper Maintenance Trumps All
Many homeowners notice their glass looks “cloudy” years down the line. But often, the culprit isn’t dirt—it’s etching, caused by repeated use of abrasive or chemical-heavy cleaners.
Here’s a cleaning routine that works, with or without coatings:
Monthly Cleaning
- Use a glass-specific cleaner like Sprayway with a microfiber towel.
Deep Clean for Buildup
- Apply Soft Scrub (non-bleach) by hand during a shower.
- Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly to remove residue.
Avoid
- Ammonia- or bleach-based products
- Abrasive scrubbing pads
- Daily overuse of harsh cleaners
Are Glass Coatings Worth It?
It depends on your preferences and expectations:
Consider a coating if you:
- Want peace of mind from a warranty against etching
- Prefer easier long-term upkeep with mild cleaners
- Like the idea of water and soap repelling more easily
Skip it if you:
- Are happy doing weekly cleanings
- Prefer to avoid extra cost
- Want to rely solely on regular maintenance
Remember, coatings are a bonus, not a substitute for care.
Get Expert Glass Advice in Cincinnati
Whether you want a fully customized glass shower enclosure or simply need honest advice about coatings, the experts at Alluring Glass are here to help. With years of experience designing, installing, and maintaining custom shower glass across Greater Cincinnati, we’ve tested what really works—and what’s just marketing.
Call us at 513-216-1987
Visit us on Google Maps
Learn more or request a quote at AlluringGlass.net
Your shower deserves more than cookie-cutter solutions. Let Alluring Glass help you find the perfect balance between beauty and practicality.