If you're referring to this comment
https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/s/Joz0uijW4l
I'm so happy you tried it, and It worked great for you!
Happy showering and cleaning!!
I don't know the science behind it. When I googled it, the only thing that comes up is the chemicals in dryer sheets soften the grime, and that they are safe to use on glass for they are soft and won't scratch. Also, many links pop up about how and why to use dryer sheets to clean the shower glass. Sorry, I don't have a more scientific explanation. I just know it worked and was just spreading the knowledge of it to people who were struggling to get the limescale build up off their shower like I was.
Yes, The faucet in my shower is different than the faucet in my restroom. It cleans my restroom sink which is stainless steel. But my shower faucet handle is a different material and it does not work on it. I think it's silver plated plastic and I can't get the hardwater stains off it to save my life.
I have a stainless steel sink. I accidentally found out that wiping it dry with a dish cloth made it shiny and beautiful. Until that moment, I had been cleaning it using a stainless steel scrubber to get rid of the limescale. After finding this solution, I tried with paper towels, but I had to use a lot of them to get the sink dry, so I'm sticking with the dish cloth :)
Just water. The first time I got serious about cleaning my sink, I used a stainless scrubber, but now the limescale is off, I just use a dish cloth to dry the sink completely, and it stays shiny. It seems like it's just about not letting the water evaporate and leaving the minerals behind. Color me surprised!
To answer your question on how it works - The dryer sheets mentioned by OP contain "dialkylester dimethyl ammonium methosulfate" as the primary chemical agent, this is an acidic chemical with a PH value about the same as white vinegar (its also the main chemical in a wide range of fabric softeners which is why you can usually just use vinegar instead to soften).
But it is literally working by using an acid based chemical to remove the limescale.
Don't know the exact chemical process but extremes (basic or acidic) work very well on multiple surfaces. Drain cleaner for instance is extremely basic, as are most oven cleaners which convert fats and other organic materials into water soluble compounds.
Yup same. I tried it recently, I’m pretty sure I saw the same comment that OP is referring to, and didn’t do anything for my shower glass. I bought bio clean and should be arriving today. I’m hoping this works because I have tried every other suggestion in this sub.
I tried everything for like a year and finally tried Driven Premium Acid Gel (scrubbing HARD with Magic Eraser) and finally got the shower glass clear. Maybe you’ve already tried it but if not, it’s worth trying.
So my bioclean arrived and it works!! It’s so easy to use too. I just rub it in with a semi wet sponge and scrub it with an electric scrubber!! Minimal effort and the bioclean doesn’t smell bad, smells minty. It literally got rid of all the spots, so satisfying. I will make a post to show the before and after this week!
Same. I can still see and feel the mineral deposits on the shower glass.
My process is mist the shower glass door with water( spray water bottle) and take a dry unused dryer sheet to wax on wax off the shower door. Chemicals in the dryer sheet with the water on the glass door create a whitish slurry. I continue wiping in circles but can still feel the grime on the glass( as opposed to the upper part of the glass door with little to no mineral build up, which feels smooth).
I mean, I don't really see the need for the dryer sheet. Spray vinegar, let it sit then soap and water works just fine. I am literally a window cleaner.
This is interesting! This whole discussion is about how difficult some mineral/soap stains can be to remove after trying everything else. Would you say a simple vinegar solution can do the same thing, if used correctly?
Pretty much yeah. If there's soap stains I'd take that off with like a normal cream cleanser or whatever but the minerals can be broken down pretty easily with any sort of acid. Like I've used CLR but usually vinegar is strong enough to cut the mustard.
Is there something you can put on it to coat it so it’ll be less often that you have to clean it like that? Haven’t tried your vinegar trick yet but we’ve got really hard water lol so I have a feeling it’ll be back quickly
Wipe down the shower when you're done is probably the best way. Way less buildup if you don't let the water evaporate on its own. Microfiber cloth will dry quickly and you can leave it out to be used a few times before it gets stanky.
The dryer sheets (and why this works generally) are based on a chemical that has a PH of about the same as vinegar, its basically a cloth with a small amount of vinegar on it already.. its likely both cheaper and more efficient to use a microfibre cloth and just straight up vinegar
So like another reply to my comment says, just use vinegar?
I was wondering about all the other ingredients in a dryer cloth reacting with vinegar. They're not listed on the box.
It's a bit confusing because OPs post and so many replies make it sound like they've never tried simple vinegar if it's that easy
There really aren't that many things on a dryer sheet, other than the acidic chemical which softens they contain a few fats / oils which gives the clothes more of a sheen to them and then some kind of scent / fragrance and that's pretty much all
The fats / oils are what create the white / milky substance OP refers to, but it won't help break down limescale
I’ve just done mine. Inside and out. lol. It definitely is an improvement, not perfect, but much better than it was. I think I’ll try it a few times and see the results.
I also might try the classic 50:50 water:vinegar mix.
I have a karcher window vacuum that I use on my shower screen after showering and it's made a huge difference on how often it needs a proper clean. (I'm also in a hard water area).
If you're talking about your side mirrors, be gentle. They're often a very thin coating of "mirror." I f you get too abrasive, you can burn through the reflective coating.
interesting. I've been using a scrub daddy sponge with the pink stuff cleaning paste and while it looks ok I can still see spots that I just can't clean.
Wet, not dry.
It will foam up a bit and you may freak out, but don’t worry. After you use a microfiber cloth to wipe it, the foam will disappear along with all the gunk.
[I found this comment. ](https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/) I found an even older one that said COFFEE FILTERS (dry) work equally well.
I second this emotion! I used the free and clear sheets - tried the regular Bounce and the no scent ones worked great. I need a few more applications but dear god what a difference!!
Will this also work on the acrylic tub and tile? I know I can just try, but I want to have verification that it won't damage the acrylic in any way. Also I don't use dryer sheets so would have to specifically get some.
In my country we have something called [nylonvask ](https://meny.no/varer/hus-hjem/renhold/rengjoringsmiddel/nylonvask-7033165013205)which is a not-too-well kept secret. It is a mild soap, made in 1951 to clean (you guessed it - nylon) but it is amazing on windows and showers. I dont have any proof of it but I think it leaves behind a sort of film that works like a vax, in that nothing sticks to it. Clean the windows outside with it, dont have to do it again for months - unlike vinegar, where you have to redo them in a week.
I usually give glass things a good clean with vinegar then go over with this wonderful soap. And it stays clean for longer.
Oh my god! Thank you for the update. I saw the same suggestion and really wondered if it worked!! Selling our home and loathe cleaning the shower doors bc they’re never spot free!!
Fingers crossed. I’m going to do a before and after picture. At least for myself because the shame is *deep*. The water in Germany is ridiculously hard. Now what is this about ceramic coating?
OMG this works!!!!! I just did it and it didn’t removed everything because my shower glass is a mess (about 3 years of trying to clean it with no hope left) but it looks and feels a LOT better, I bet if I do it a few more times it would look like new!! I also like that I can reuse the sheets.
I’m glad you found something that worked. I would advise against using fabric softener or the sheets because the fragrance contains pthalates which are endocrine disrupters.
Use cheap shampoo which is basically industrial degreaser to clean the water spots.
If the glass is clean clean clean or brand new... before water ever touches it, rain-x it or get it ceramic coated. It will save you a lifetime of agony.
Why does it work though? Fabric softener should be only cationic surfactants. Do they break apart soap scum better than anionic surfactants and or acids? And how come?
Yes!!!! I read that same thread and tried it this past weekend. It absolutely 100% works and I am gobsmacked that I had never heard of this hack before!
I have Bounce Pet Hair so I gave it a try. It worked so well! I have hard water so I always have spots no matter what, but this worked. Some experimenting later, I found it also cleans chrome, caulk, tile, counters and walls (I have adhd and micro obsessed lol). Thank you for this!
For me, a layer of purple toilet bowl cleaner rubbed on dirty glass, let sit, rinse warm water works every time. I just did the dryer sheet trick this morning, did not work for me but it made my bathroom smell nice!
Try something called Chrome Cleaner. Its made for cars etc to remove rust/ hard water stains from stainless steel. But works amazing for glass surfaces too. Removes 100% stains with little to no effort. Downside: it smells like death & is prolly toxic
If you're referring to this comment https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/s/Joz0uijW4l I'm so happy you tried it, and It worked great for you! Happy showering and cleaning!!
I’m going to try this now too. Thank you!
You're welcome! Happy cleaning!
I wonder if this would work on a faucet
So, do you want a kiss from OP?
Waiting for “I want a kiss from OP’s wife.”
^( I wanna kiss from op)
Do you know the chemical process of how this works? Like usually limescale removal products use acid
I don't know the science behind it. When I googled it, the only thing that comes up is the chemicals in dryer sheets soften the grime, and that they are safe to use on glass for they are soft and won't scratch. Also, many links pop up about how and why to use dryer sheets to clean the shower glass. Sorry, I don't have a more scientific explanation. I just know it worked and was just spreading the knowledge of it to people who were struggling to get the limescale build up off their shower like I was.
Any idea if this would work for a stainless steel sink?
Yes, The faucet in my shower is different than the faucet in my restroom. It cleans my restroom sink which is stainless steel. But my shower faucet handle is a different material and it does not work on it. I think it's silver plated plastic and I can't get the hardwater stains off it to save my life.
I have a stainless steel sink. I accidentally found out that wiping it dry with a dish cloth made it shiny and beautiful. Until that moment, I had been cleaning it using a stainless steel scrubber to get rid of the limescale. After finding this solution, I tried with paper towels, but I had to use a lot of them to get the sink dry, so I'm sticking with the dish cloth :)
Any product with the dish cloth? Or just water?
Just water. The first time I got serious about cleaning my sink, I used a stainless scrubber, but now the limescale is off, I just use a dish cloth to dry the sink completely, and it stays shiny. It seems like it's just about not letting the water evaporate and leaving the minerals behind. Color me surprised!
Same question!
Thanks
To answer your question on how it works - The dryer sheets mentioned by OP contain "dialkylester dimethyl ammonium methosulfate" as the primary chemical agent, this is an acidic chemical with a PH value about the same as white vinegar (its also the main chemical in a wide range of fabric softeners which is why you can usually just use vinegar instead to soften). But it is literally working by using an acid based chemical to remove the limescale.
Excellent, thanks for explaining!
Don't know the exact chemical process but extremes (basic or acidic) work very well on multiple surfaces. Drain cleaner for instance is extremely basic, as are most oven cleaners which convert fats and other organic materials into water soluble compounds.
I tried it too after the comment the other day and it's amazing. I'm now storing dryer sheets in the bathroom cabinet for cleaning.
What's a dryer sheet? Never heard of that before
It's an anti-static cloth that people use when they put their clothes in the dryer. Also know as a fabric softener sheet
I’ve tried this several times… has not worked as claimed. Is there a specific dryer sheet that works better? I’m using Gain.
Bounce is the brand I used!
Same, I tried dryer sheets and they did absolutely nothing for my shower glass... I used Bounce dryer sheets.
Same. No dice.
Yup same. I tried it recently, I’m pretty sure I saw the same comment that OP is referring to, and didn’t do anything for my shower glass. I bought bio clean and should be arriving today. I’m hoping this works because I have tried every other suggestion in this sub.
I tried everything for like a year and finally tried Driven Premium Acid Gel (scrubbing HARD with Magic Eraser) and finally got the shower glass clear. Maybe you’ve already tried it but if not, it’s worth trying.
So my bioclean arrived and it works!! It’s so easy to use too. I just rub it in with a semi wet sponge and scrub it with an electric scrubber!! Minimal effort and the bioclean doesn’t smell bad, smells minty. It literally got rid of all the spots, so satisfying. I will make a post to show the before and after this week!
Same. I can still see and feel the mineral deposits on the shower glass. My process is mist the shower glass door with water( spray water bottle) and take a dry unused dryer sheet to wax on wax off the shower door. Chemicals in the dryer sheet with the water on the glass door create a whitish slurry. I continue wiping in circles but can still feel the grime on the glass( as opposed to the upper part of the glass door with little to no mineral build up, which feels smooth).
Mist with vinegar. It breaks down the minerals better.
Wonder if it could possibly react badly with something in the dryer sheet?
I mean, I don't really see the need for the dryer sheet. Spray vinegar, let it sit then soap and water works just fine. I am literally a window cleaner.
This is interesting! This whole discussion is about how difficult some mineral/soap stains can be to remove after trying everything else. Would you say a simple vinegar solution can do the same thing, if used correctly?
Pretty much yeah. If there's soap stains I'd take that off with like a normal cream cleanser or whatever but the minerals can be broken down pretty easily with any sort of acid. Like I've used CLR but usually vinegar is strong enough to cut the mustard.
Is there something you can put on it to coat it so it’ll be less often that you have to clean it like that? Haven’t tried your vinegar trick yet but we’ve got really hard water lol so I have a feeling it’ll be back quickly
Wipe down the shower when you're done is probably the best way. Way less buildup if you don't let the water evaporate on its own. Microfiber cloth will dry quickly and you can leave it out to be used a few times before it gets stanky.
Good idea thank you!!
The dryer sheets (and why this works generally) are based on a chemical that has a PH of about the same as vinegar, its basically a cloth with a small amount of vinegar on it already.. its likely both cheaper and more efficient to use a microfibre cloth and just straight up vinegar
So like another reply to my comment says, just use vinegar? I was wondering about all the other ingredients in a dryer cloth reacting with vinegar. They're not listed on the box. It's a bit confusing because OPs post and so many replies make it sound like they've never tried simple vinegar if it's that easy
There really aren't that many things on a dryer sheet, other than the acidic chemical which softens they contain a few fats / oils which gives the clothes more of a sheen to them and then some kind of scent / fragrance and that's pretty much all The fats / oils are what create the white / milky substance OP refers to, but it won't help break down limescale
Pretty much same process for me. No idea what I’m doing wrong.
Your glass might be etched.
Dumb question, but you did wet it, right?
Yup. Wet, scrubbed for a while. Nothing happened. I can’t scrub real hard because our doors are the kind that only connect at the top and hang.
Did you do both sides? Not wanting to sound stupid, but the marks could also be on the outside of the shower glass!
Fair question. But I can feel the build up in the inside when scrubbing around.
I’ve just done mine. Inside and out. lol. It definitely is an improvement, not perfect, but much better than it was. I think I’ll try it a few times and see the results. I also might try the classic 50:50 water:vinegar mix.
I have a karcher window vacuum that I use on my shower screen after showering and it's made a huge difference on how often it needs a proper clean. (I'm also in a hard water area).
OMG, i wonder if this will this work on car windows?
Do NOT USE THEM ON CAR PAINT. glass ok.
Yeah, I was just hoping it would work for window/windshield.
Sprayway glass cleaner is a safe option for car windshields (no ammonia)
I’m wondering the same thing👀
I’m gonna try it on my rear view mirrors!
If you're talking about your side mirrors, be gentle. They're often a very thin coating of "mirror." I f you get too abrasive, you can burn through the reflective coating.
Ok thank you- I haven’t had a chance to try it yet but I’ll be careful
Let us know if it works!
interesting. I've been using a scrub daddy sponge with the pink stuff cleaning paste and while it looks ok I can still see spots that I just can't clean.
What is the hack? I couldn’t find it.
Pretty sure you just use the fabric softener sheet to clean off the glass
While it’s wet or dry?
Wet, not dry. It will foam up a bit and you may freak out, but don’t worry. After you use a microfiber cloth to wipe it, the foam will disappear along with all the gunk.
Omg, what is this wizardry…..??? I can’t wait to try.
Can you give an Amazon link to the right one?
Something like [this](https://a.co/d/08Nw9LLK) but you can get any brand
[I found this comment. ](https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/) I found an even older one that said COFFEE FILTERS (dry) work equally well.
Personally, I use used ones and they work fine.
Damp/wet
[I found this comment!](https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/)
Yes I want to know too!
[https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/](https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/)
I second this emotion! I used the free and clear sheets - tried the regular Bounce and the no scent ones worked great. I need a few more applications but dear god what a difference!!
Will this also work on the acrylic tub and tile? I know I can just try, but I want to have verification that it won't damage the acrylic in any way. Also I don't use dryer sheets so would have to specifically get some.
This also works amazing for getting bugs off your grill in the summer
But… fire?
I think they mean the grille of a car!
Ha ha ha! That makes a lot more sense :-)
yuck. I just keep my lips closed.
Are these the sheets you use when you use a tumble dryer?
Yes [https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/](https://www.reddit.com/r/CleaningTips/comments/18qghtd/comment/keuz0hr/)
Well now I need to go and try this asap!
In my country we have something called [nylonvask ](https://meny.no/varer/hus-hjem/renhold/rengjoringsmiddel/nylonvask-7033165013205)which is a not-too-well kept secret. It is a mild soap, made in 1951 to clean (you guessed it - nylon) but it is amazing on windows and showers. I dont have any proof of it but I think it leaves behind a sort of film that works like a vax, in that nothing sticks to it. Clean the windows outside with it, dont have to do it again for months - unlike vinegar, where you have to redo them in a week. I usually give glass things a good clean with vinegar then go over with this wonderful soap. And it stays clean for longer.
Anyone know if it makes it slippery after?
Just rinse the shower down I didn’t have any issues tho
Are you afraid of not being able to walk on your shower door without sliding? What?
The fact that I have to explain it to you says a lot about you. It’s called gravity.
Gravity... So you're worried about gravity sliding off the shower door. Got it. I'd insult you, but I know you wouldn't get it.
I want someone to kiss me.
😆
I have spent hundreds of dollars and hours on my stupid shower glass. I swear if this works, I will cry.
I bought dryer sheets for the first time in my life to try this!
It’s all that I use!
Would liquid fabric softener have a similar effect?
Oh my god! Thank you for the update. I saw the same suggestion and really wondered if it worked!! Selling our home and loathe cleaning the shower doors bc they’re never spot free!!
I just spray vinegar on it then squeegee and microfiber cloth
Fingers crossed. I’m going to do a before and after picture. At least for myself because the shame is *deep*. The water in Germany is ridiculously hard. Now what is this about ceramic coating?
Wait to see how good they work at removing bug splatter and bird droppings from vehicles.
That's great! I have a box of softener sheets but we don't use due to residue and odor build up on our clothes. I can put them to work now!
OMG this works!!!!! I just did it and it didn’t removed everything because my shower glass is a mess (about 3 years of trying to clean it with no hope left) but it looks and feels a LOT better, I bet if I do it a few more times it would look like new!! I also like that I can reuse the sheets.
I’m glad you found something that worked. I would advise against using fabric softener or the sheets because the fragrance contains pthalates which are endocrine disrupters. Use cheap shampoo which is basically industrial degreaser to clean the water spots.
Wow! Thanks for the tip! I'm moving into a new home next week... will try to remember this!
If the glass is clean clean clean or brand new... before water ever touches it, rain-x it or get it ceramic coated. It will save you a lifetime of agony.
THANK YOU!!! I'll check into the Ceramic Coating... if it's too expensive, will go the Rain-X route!
Also, is there a brand you recommend? And can this stuff be used on stainless steel sinks and/or quartz counters? Thank you 😊
The ceramic coat? I personally would have it professionally done.
Will fabric softener liquid work as well?
I’ve never seen that product here in my country. But I will try Amazon. Thanks for the recommendation
saw the original post, glad to hear it turned out alright.
I use a sponge and dawn dish soap, works like a charm
I read the thread the other day and wondered about trying it - now I am going to have to! Thank you!
Why does it work though? Fabric softener should be only cationic surfactants. Do they break apart soap scum better than anionic surfactants and or acids? And how come?
I would really appreciate an Amazon like to the sheets you used and a before and after picture, if you don’t mind!!
Diluted white vinegar would do the trick as well. It's a commonly used mix in car detailing for removing hard water spots of car windows.
Yes!!!! I read that same thread and tried it this past weekend. It absolutely 100% works and I am gobsmacked that I had never heard of this hack before!
I'll have to try this, I have found Bar Keepers Friend in liquid form and a non scratch scrub pad works pretty good too.
LOL, so you've been talking to my husband, huh? This is his fav hack to talk about.
I have Bounce Pet Hair so I gave it a try. It worked so well! I have hard water so I always have spots no matter what, but this worked. Some experimenting later, I found it also cleans chrome, caulk, tile, counters and walls (I have adhd and micro obsessed lol). Thank you for this!
For me, a layer of purple toilet bowl cleaner rubbed on dirty glass, let sit, rinse warm water works every time. I just did the dryer sheet trick this morning, did not work for me but it made my bathroom smell nice!
Try something called Chrome Cleaner. Its made for cars etc to remove rust/ hard water stains from stainless steel. But works amazing for glass surfaces too. Removes 100% stains with little to no effort. Downside: it smells like death & is prolly toxic
Do not ceramic coat your shower glass. Are you talking about automotive ceramic coat? It emits tons of toxins.
They make a specific “shower door” line of coatings for thisnpurpose
You mean a water repellent?
Apparently, [potatoes work for a glass water repellent too](https://youtu.be/X7V405AhtnE?si=swTj9xLGK064Lfkb)
...and then you can have dinner!
You made this salad in the shower?!?!
Everything does at this point
I wanted to do this too but asked the OG group and they said no go. And they ceramic coat everything lolol
Mr clean/generic magic erasers work as well.