A writer tested an unusual cleaning hack using a potato to remove fingerprints and dirt from shower glass, but the result was far from satisfactory. Ottilie Blackhall at Homes & Gardens shared her experience, reporting that the shower looked smudged, sticky, and lacklustre.
The Test: Potato on Shower Glass
Blackhall, who had previously tried cleaning with a dishwand, shaving foam, and toothpaste on faucets, decided to try the potato method out of curiosity. She explained that potatoes contain oxalic acid, which can help lift stubborn dirt and grime, and that the natural starch in potatoes is said to lift dirt, grease, and fingerprints from glass.
To try the hack, she cut a potato in half and rubbed the cut side over the glass in circular motions, then left it for a few minutes before spraying with lukewarm water and wiping with a microfibre cloth.
The Verdict: A Disappointing Result
Blackhall was not impressed with the outcome. "I can't say I was particularly surprised to find that my shower did not look sparkling and spotless. Instead, it was smudged, sticky and particularly lacklustre," she said. She added that, like cleaning limescale with a grapefruit, this is a bathroom cleaning hack she won't be trying again.
She recommended shaving foam as a more effective alternative, noting that it is quick, affordable, and truly effective, and can also prevent condensation on mirrors for around a week.
Why Shaving Foam Works
Shaving foam works because it contains surfactants, chemical compounds that help loosen and lift dirt from surfaces. It can break down grime, tackle odours, and remove stubborn stains while being non-toxic and gentle.
To use, apply a small amount of shaving foam directly to the surface, spread it evenly with a damp cloth, leave it for a few minutes, then wipe away with a clean, damp cloth and dry with a microfibre cloth for a streak-free finish.
