How to Remove Mineral Deposits from a Glass Tile Backsplash

Mineral deposits on a glass tile backsplash can turn a shiny surface into a cloudy, crusty mess. These deposits come from hard water that dries on the glass, leaving behind calcium and magnesium. If you have a glass tile backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom, you might notice white or gray spots that don't wipe away easily. The good news is that you can remove them safely with common household items like white vinegar and baking soda.

Before you start, it's important to know what you're dealing with. Mineral deposits are different from soap scum or grease. They are hard, crusty, and often require an acid to dissolve. White vinegar is a mild acid that works well on glass, but you need to be careful with the grout between the tiles. Grout is porous and can be damaged by acidic cleaners if you're not careful.

Readers may also find How to Remove Dried Red Wine from a Wool Rug: A Surface-Safety Guide, How to Remove Hard Water Spots from a Stainless Steel Sink, and How to Remove Dried Coffee from a Silk Blouse: A Surface-Safety Guide useful. For more stories like this, browse our Surface Safety section.

What You'll Need

• White vinegar (distilled white vinegar)
• Baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Soft cloths or microfiber towels
• Soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush)
• Dish soap (mild, like Dawn)
• Water

First Steps: What to Do Immediately

If you notice fresh mineral deposits from a recent water spill, act quickly. The sooner you address them, the easier they are to remove. For fresh deposits, simply wipe the area with a damp cloth and dry it thoroughly. This prevents the minerals from bonding to the glass.