How to Tell If Water Spots Are Etched or Just on the Surface
Water spots might look the same at a glance—but knowing what kind you’re dealing with is the key to removing them properly.
Why It Matters
Surface-level water spots can often be removed with a good cleaner like Pure Magic Cleaner. But etched water spots—where minerals have bonded into the glass—need polishing to restore clarity.
Using the wrong method wastes time and risks damage. So how do you tell the difference?
Quick Test: Water and Wipe
Spray the affected area with water or glass cleaner and wipe with a microfiber towel. If the spots disappear temporarily, they’re likely on the surface. If they stay visible, even when wet, you’re probably dealing with etching.
Visual Cues
- Surface Spots: Look sharp-edged, round, and uniform. May come off with an acid-based cleaner like Pure Magic.
- Etched Spots: Look cloudy, hazy, or ghost-like. Often have a random shape and pattern. Don’t disappear when wet.
Feel Test
Rub your hand or a plastic bag over the glass. If it feels rough or gritty, there’s likely surface-level contamination. If it feels smooth but still looks stained, that’s usually etching.
When to Clean vs Polish
- Use Pure Magic Cleaner first to test if the spots are removable. Let dwell, agitate, and rinse.
- If spots remain, polish with Picture Perfect Polish and a foam pad to remove etching.
Pro Tip: Always Start with a Safe Test Spot
Never start polishing right away. Clean the glass first. If spots remain, escalate to polish. This prevents overworking or damaging good glass.
Not Sure What You’re Dealing With?
Use the same system we used to test water spots on etched glass in Hawaii. It’s simple, safe, and effective.
Related Posts
- How to Remove Hard Water Spots from Glass
- Fix Etched Glass from Sprinklers or Ocean Air
- What’s the Best Pad for Glass Polishing?
