How To Prevent Fogging And Water Spots On Bathroom Glass

Glass installations such as shower screens, doors, mirrors, shelves or cabinets, bring a luxurious and elegant finish to your bathroom. However, the clarity of the glass can be tarnished by fogging and water spots. Here’s a look at why these issues occur, and the proactive steps you can take to prevent them.

Why bathroom glass fogs up

Fogging happens when hot steam from a shower meets cooler glass; condensation forms, scattering light and blurring the surface. That fog usually evaporates, but often leaves mineral streaks behind. Fog also spoils the aesthetics of the bathroom and reduces the feeling of light and space. 

Foggy mirrors are also a nuisance when you need to shave or apply makeup on a busy morning. Even if you wipe away the condensation, the glass may not be clear enough to provide you with a crisp reflection for detailed tasks. 

Instant fog remedies

Install mirror defoggers

Mirror demisters are ultra-thin heating pads affixed behind the mirror’s central surface. Once turned on — typically via a switch, timer, or linked bathroom lighting circuit —  they gently warm the glass. This keeps its surface above the dew point, preventing condensation entirely.

The self-adhesive mats can be connected to your mains supply, or retrofitted to LED mirrors for energy-efficient operation. They work instantly to prevent or remove condensation, leaving you with a crystal clear reflection and saving time when you’re in a hurry. They also mean less wiping, streaks and smudges on the glass. 

Shaving foam hack

Apply a thin layer of shaving foam to mirrors or glass, then buff it off. This leaves a temporary layer that helps resist fogging for days.

Anti-fog sprays

Available online and in stores (including some car windscreen formulas), these sprays can last a week or more per application.

Warm the surface

Run hot water over the glass before your shower to reduce the temperature difference and delay fog formation.

Why water spots appear

After condensation evaporates, minerals such as calcium and magnesium remain on the glass, leaving chalky or milky residue, especially in hard water areas where dissolved minerals are abundant, such as south east England. 

Tips for reducing or preventing water spots

Improve ventilation

Run an extractor fan during and after showers, and open a window if possible. Better airflow means less condensation.

Use a water-repellent coating

Specialist products or sealants are available that create invisible barriers to repel water and soap scum, reducing spotting and making cleaning easier.

Keep a squeegee handy

Give the glass a quick swipe after every shower, even sides and edges where drips collect.

Install a water softener

Softening hard water can greatly reduce mineral build-up.

Cleaning water spots

White vinegar spray

Mix equal parts vinegar and warm water. Spray, wait five to ten minutes, then wipe with a microfibre cloth — this dissolves mineral deposits gently.

Baking soda paste

Rub a paste of baking soda and water onto stubborn spots, rinse thoroughly and buff dry.

Lemon juice

Natural and fragrant: rub lemon on the glass, let it sit for ten minutes, rinse, and dry.

Ongoing maintenance

• Daily: Squeegee after each shower.

• Weekly: Wipe glass with microfibre and mild cleaner.

• Monthly: Reapply repellent coatings if needed.

• Seasonally: Clean and check ventilation fans.

So, there you have it: a gleaming bathroom looks beautiful, feels welcoming, and is more pleasant and hygienic to use. By using smart anti-fog hacks and anti-misting pads, combined with good ventilation and a regular cleaning routine, your bathroom will always look sleek and be safe and convenient to use.