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How to Clean Glass Floors, Counters, and Vanities

Tips for Maintaining Your Architectural Glass Feature



If you’re thinking about incorporating glass into your flooring, counters, or vanities, you might be wondering how to clean and to maintain it. Whether you’re a private homeowner or you operate a commercial space, here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about architectural glass and maintenance:


1. A Feather Duster Is Your Friend


For day-to-day cleaning, a feather duster works great on glass. It quickly, safely, and effectively removes any thin layer of dust that’s accumulated on the surface.


2. Avoid Anything Abrasive

Someone using a sponge to clean a porcelain bowl sink.

If you need to go above and beyond light daily cleaning, remember to avoid anything abrasive. This applies to both materials and solutions used on the glass. Opt for soft, lint-free cloths when wiping, and avoid things like coarse paper towels. Any glass cleaner should be nonabrasive and free of ammonia. (Be aware some brand-name products, such as Windex, do contain ammonia. )


3. Use Proper Cleaning Techniques

Latex cleaning gloves under a bottle of vinegar and water.

When cleaning, spray any solution directly onto the cloth. Then dab that cloth onto the glass surface. For more stubborn or heavily soiled areas, use a gentle circular motion. This should take care of any dirt, grime, or spills.


4. Don’t Rush or Panic

A spilled glass of red wine.

With glass, you’re not “on the clock” in the same way as with other surfaces. Glass is a nonporous material, so you don’t have to worry about stains, even from notorious offenders, such as red wine. (This is just one advantage of designing with glass.)


Just make sure spills don’t reach areas or materials that can stain. Think drips off the counter edge onto the carpet!


5. Get Streak-Free Beauty

A man cleaning a wall of glass widows so it doesn't show a single streak.

Nothing mars the clean, sleek, timeless look of glass-like streaking. (This will be especially apparent if your glass surface is exposed to lots of natural light.) To avoid streaks after cleaning, use distilled water or a vinegar solution. These will not only eliminate those unsightly streaks, but it also offers a chemical-free cleaning alternative.


6. Cleaning Is Only One Part of Maintenance

A raised blue glass countertop.

General maintenance of your glass floor, countertops, or vanity will include regular cleaning, but it should also involve inspecting all components of the glass feature. This includes the following:


  • Grout
  • Adhesives
  • Fasteners
  • Hardware


Perform this inspection of overall function at least once a year.


7. Opt for an Anti-Scratch Surface

An outdoor glass countertop with thick glass.

One of the best ways to keep your glass pristine year after year is to ensure it’s treated with an anti-scratch surface. This will protect it from everyday wear and tear, which can be extended for items like countertops and floors. This feature is especially important for commercial areas, which will experience much more use than a private residence.


If you choose to work with TCG Glass, an architectural glass manufacturer, all glass countertops come standard with a proprietary scratch-resistant coating. (It’s also available for glass flooring.)


Need advice or guidance about best practices for glass cleaning and maintenance? Contact us today. We’re always happy to help!

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