What to Clean a Mirror With
Old habits die hard, and if you grew up being taught to use newspaper or paper towels to clean the mirror, you may still reach for those products today. But not only are these single-use items, making them less environmentally friendly, they can also leave behind lint, dust, paper debris, or ink residue. So, we recommend using a trusty lint-free cloth instead. Lint-free cloths will pull up dirt and grease without leaving a trail of lint behind. Better yet, you can throw them in the wash and use them again. Below, find two methods for cleaning a mirror—one with a store-bought solution and one using a DIY solution using ingredients you probably already have on hand. If you opt for store-bought, avoid multi-purpose cleaners or any solutions that aren’t specifically tailored for glass, as these can leave behind a film.
How to Clean a Mirror
It worked as a karate move, but Mr. Miyagi’s “wax on, wax off” method isn’t ideal for cleaning mirrors. That’s because the circular motion actually re-deposits dust and debris from your cloth back onto the surface, leaving streaks. Here’s what to do instead:
Windex Method
What You’ll Need
Microfiber clothGlass cleaner like Windex
Instructions
Vinegar Solution Method
What You’ll Need
Microfiber clothVinegarWater
Instructions NOTE: If you opt to use the vinegar and water mixture, the vinegar will prevent the mirror from steaming up for about a week. To increase the de-fogging ability, spray the mixture directly on the mirror and let it sit for a minute before cleaning it off. Be careful not to let the solution seep into the sides and underneath the surface. Keep in mind that while it is an effective cleaning solution, there are several things you should never clean with vinegar. Surfaces like stone countertops and deteriorating bathroom grout are too porous, and an abrasive cleaner like vinegar could damage the finish or seal after prolonged use. READ NEXT: How to Make Your Glass Shower Doors Sparkle
