No matter how often or how thoroughly we clean them, water spots, streaks, and smudges can quickly ruin the clear glass of the mirrors around our homes, especially in the bathroom.
Unfortunately, dirty mirrors can make your otherwise pristinely clean bathroom look filthy, so it’s nearly essential to learn how to clean a mirror properly. Sometimes it can be as easy as a quick wipe with glass cleaner and a cloth, but hard water and stubborn streaks can be a problem.
If you’re looking for a crystal-clear finish every time you clean your mirror, we have a variety of methods and tools for you to discover below!
Why Should You Opt for Microfiber Cloths?
Paper towels and newspapers can be used for cleaning mirrors as paper products leave unsightly streaks, lint, dust, and newsprint residue on glass surfaces very easily. Regardless of what product you use to clean your mirrors, the best way to wipe off a mirror is by using high-quality microfiber cloths.
You don’t have to relearn how to clean a mirror without streaks when using microfiber cloths, either. The process is almost identical to cleaning mirrors with paper towels; it’s easier, more consistent, and less wasteful to boot.
Simply apply glass cleaner directly to a clean microfiber cloth, wipe the entire mirror surface clean using S or Z-shaped motions, and use the same zigzag motions with a clean, dry microfiber to wipe the glass dry.
You Can Always Rely on Glass Cleaner
If you already have a ready-made glass cleaner like Windex on hand or can’t tolerate the odor of vinegar, your journey to a streak-free mirror is already half-complete! Before you get cleaning, take a moment to read the instructions on the glass cleaner’s label, which may differ from product to product.
Generally speaking, begin by spraying glass cleaner directly onto the mirror surface or a microfiber cloth. Wipe the glass either with circular or zigzag motions (according to the product label), taking care not to leave any cleaner that may collect on the trim of a framed mirror. If instructed, wipe the clean glass dry with a new microfiber, and repeat these steps as needed if stubborn residue or streaks remain.
Clean Your Mirror With Vinegar
Vinegar mixtures can be effective cleaning solutions, but remember that there are several things you should never clean with vinegar. Surfaces like stone and deteriorating bathroom grout are too porous for an abrasive cleaner like vinegar, which can damage the finish or seal after prolonged use.
For the best results, a solution of diluted vinegar is a good idea. To create a DIY solution, mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water in a spray bottle and shake well. Using distilled water is also a good idea if your house tends toward providing hard water.
Remember to spray the vinegar mixture or glass cleaner directly on the cloth and not the mirror so that the solution doesn’t seep behind the silver coating and create black tarnish marks or rust. Use your trusty microfiber cloth to wipe the mirror in an S-pattern starting at the top of the mirror and working your way down.
Clean Your Mirror with Rubbing Alcohol
If you continue to struggle with a streaky mirror, you can pretreat problem spots before cleaning the whole surface. Some leading causes of bathroom mirror streaks are the toothpaste, hair products, and fingerprints that glass situated in front of a sink inevitably attracts.
Fortunately, an easy solution hides inside your medicine cabinet: rubbing alcohol. Contrary to popular belief, glass cleaners alone can’t remove everything from a mirror.
Streaks are often left when untreated spots are wiped with a paper towel or cloth, which only spreads oily residues with each swipe. To avoid this, wet a reusable bamboo round (or cotton pad) with rubbing alcohol and dab at visible problem spots to break up and remove gunk beforehand. Then, clean the mirror with a microfiber cloth and your favorite glass cleaner for an all-but-guaranteed streak-free finish.
Steam Cleaning Mirrors
If you have a steam cleaner with a squeegee attachment, you may already have one of the best mirror-cleaning methods available. Steamers are effective without using harsh chemicals or extra products as the hot steam loosens even stubborn dirt effortlessly.
First, evenly steam the glass surface using the hand nozzle and the microfiber cover, and loosen any stubborn dirt and debris by rubbing. You can also use the detail nozzle if you keep the nozzle a few inches from the surface. Then simply remove the steam using a squeegee and carefully rub the edges dry.
How Often Should You Clean Your Mirrors?
The frequency with which you clean mirrors can vary, depending on several factors, such as the mirror’s location, how often it’s used, and the environment in which it’s located. It’s a good idea to clean mirrors at least once a month, but you may need to clean them more frequently if they are used often or are in a high-traffic area.
Some people prefer to clean their mirrors more frequently, especially if they’re located above a sink or in a bathroom, where fog can build up. Ultimately though, the frequency with which you clean your mirrors is up to you. If you notice streaks or smudges on the mirror, it’s a sign that it needs to be cleaned. Otherwise, you can clean your mirrors on a schedule that works for you.
FAQs
What is the best way to clean a mirror?
Use a microfiber cloth to wipe across the mirror in a broad “S” pattern, working from edge to edge, top to bottom. Try to lead with the same edge of the cloth to capture any dirt or debris without spreading it around.
What is the best way to clean mirrors without streaking?
Avoid soaps, scents, and dyes for a streak-free clean, never scrub your glass and spot clean, always use a microfiber cloth for cleaning glass, side-to-side cleaning patterns work better than circular motions, and remember that a repeatable process is a good process.
What is the best thing to clean glass mirrors with?
Using a microfiber cloth will ensure that your glass is clean, dry, and lint-free. The small fibers in a microfiber cloth are designed to absorb or cling to anything they come into contact with. For products that we suggest, we love Windex or Sprayway Glass Cleaner.
What should you not clean mirrors with?
You should avoid soaps, scents, and dyes for a streak-free clean. Using a glass cleaner without soaps, scents, or dyes delivers the best results because those additives actually leave behind the residues that cause streaks.
For more tips and tricks from your favorite Boston Cleaning Service, check out our blog or contact us to book your cleaning services today! We’re here to help you work towards a healthier and happier home.
The post How to Clean Your Mirrors for a Streak-Free Shine appeared first on Cleanzen.
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