Your glass tabletops provide an elegant addition to home décor, but they often get clouded from frequent use. Glass tabletops often get a film from incorrect cleaning, mineral deposits, residue from commercial cleaners, and hard water. Sometimes, soap and water can remove the film, but it may not be enough. It is still possible to clean the film from glass tabletops following these tips.

Prepare to Remove the Film

To clean the table, gather:

• plastic work gloves
• microfiber cloths 
• paper towels
• white vinegar
• lemon juice
• baking soda
• rubbing alcohol 
• petroleum jelly
• denture cleaner (optional) 
• ammonia (optional)
• spray bottle
• sponge
• crumpled newspaper

Remove items from the table, and rub the surface with a cloth to remove dust. To clean sticky substances, dampen the cloth with hot water, and wipe the table. A microfiber cloth collects more dirt than standard cloths, since it is made from tiny fibers. Use a glass-cleaning razor to gently scrape stubborn gunk or caked debris.

Clean with Natural Cleaners

To avoid streaking, purchase undiluted vinegar. Make a solution from a tablespoon of white vinegar, a cup of warm water, and a cup of rubbing alcohol. Spray some mixture on the surface, then gently wipe the surface. Don't forget to clean the underside of the glass. 

Alternately, combine one part lemon juice or vinegar in baking soda, and spread it on the table with the cloth. Leave it for ten minutes, then use a sponge to wipe the mixture into the glass. Rinse with a damp cloth. 

Follow directions to dissolve a denture tablet in water, and fill a spray bottle with the mixture. Mist the surface, let it stand two to five minutes, then use a paper towel or cloth to wipe the surface.

If there is a thin layer of calcium buildup, spread some petroleum jelly on it. It will need to sit for one to five days. Squirt some glass cleaner over the petroleum jelly, and wipe with a clean cloth or a paper towel. To add extra shine, crumple up newspaper, and run it over the tabletop.

Use Ammonia

If natural cleaners won't remove the film, try ammonia. Ventilate the area by opening a window or running an exhaust fan. 

Combine a cup of tap water and a tablespoon of ammonia in a spray bottle, then mist the tabletop. Let the mixture sit five minutes, then remove it with a clean microfiber cloth or paper towel; working in small, even vertical strokes beginning at one end. For more help, contact a home cleaning service.