How To Properly Clean Your Mirrors (Even Without Glass Cleaner!)

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Mirror cleaning seems to be a straightforward chore. You point, spray, and wipe. However, after cleaning the glass surface, you might get surprised when looking at the mirror from a different angle.

Weeks—if not months—of natural residue, makeup, and toothpaste splatters might be gone, but the mirror still doesn’t look great. What happened? You need to change your mirror cleaning technique!

If you always get a streaky mirror, don’t worry! Here is how to clean a mirror properly, even without Windex.

Why not just clean using any glass cleaner?

There’s nothing wrong with using Windex or any other glass cleaner. However, some homeowners would prefer to save some cash and trips to the store, on top of using the least amount of unpronounceable chemicals. 

Fortunately, you can easily substitute commercial glass cleaner with products you have at home. The best alternative to commercial cleaners is white vinegar because it’s cheap and easy to use. 

How does vinegar work for cleaning? This agent dissolves layers of gunk, grime, and dirt from many surfaces at home. Besides, you don’t have to rinse your mirrors after using vinegar; it evaporates quickly. The strong smell will also fade away after cleaning.

How to clean a mirror with vinegar

To have a streak-free mirror without a commercial cleaner, you have to make your solution and go through a few easy steps. First, this is all you need to clean your mirrors:

• Cotton swabs or pads.
• Rubbing alcohol.
• An empty spray bottle.
• Microfiber cloth.
• Distilled water.
• White vinegar.

How to apply the proper technique

Most homeowners have to deal with annoying streaks, but not because of the glass cleaner they choose or the cloth they use; the problem is technique. If you want to enjoy a clean glass surface and a clearer view, follow these steps:

1. Start by dipping the cotton swabs into the alcohol and working the smudges and hardened stains on the mirror.
2. Make a solution of water with vinegar. Mix it in a 50/50 ratio and throw it in the bottle.
3. Spray over the surface in a gentle mist.
4. Wipe in a narrow “S” pattern from top to bottom with the microfiber cloth.
5. Look at the mirror from different angles. If you still see streaks, use a little vinegar straight on the spots and buff with paper towels.

Extra: If you need a little abrasive power on your glass surface, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the DIY solution. Cornstarch will act as a scrubbing agent. Remember to shake the spray bottle before spraying.

How to keep your mirror clean for longer

Mirrors look dingy in no time due to natural buildup, so remember to clean them once a week. Also, if your bathroom gets steamy, keep the room well ventilated.

Do you want to learn more? Read our blog!

The cleaning professionals at Hervey Bay have plenty of tips and tricks you can use for a tidier, healthy home. Don’t miss our blog! While at it, check our services if you need top-quality cleaning and some time off from your chores.

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