Now, look at your glasses and silverware. Pull one out of the dishwasher after it dries. Do you see white, crusty spots or a rainbow film? That’s calcium and magnesium laughing at you. A working softener removes these minerals, so your glasses should look crystal clear—like they belong in a fancy hotel.
If you’re scrubbing spots off your wine glasses with vinegar, your softener is failing. Also, check your shower doors. Hard water leaves a white haze that’s nearly impossible to scrub off. Clear glass? You’re golden. Hazy glass? Time to investigate.
The "Dry Skin" Clue
Let’s get personal. How’s your skin and hair? Hard water dries everything out—it strips natural oils and leaves your hair feeling like straw. Soft water, on the other hand, makes your skin feel moisturized and your hair silky.
If you’ve been slathering on lotion like it’s your job, and your shampoo doesn’t lather well, blame your softener. If you step out of the shower and your skin feels nice and your hair is manageable, give your softener a high-five. It’s earning its keep.
