If you’re like most of us, your spring cleaning routine probably involves giving your mirrors a good wipe-down. But is it possible that you’re actually making your mirrors dirtier and duller? To find out, we spoke to professional cleaners to learn more about the common mistakes people make when it comes to cleaning their mirrors. From microfiber cloths to cleaning solutions, here’s what they had to say about getting a perfect shine in your home.
What are the most common mirror cleaning mistakes people make?
When it comes to cleaning our mirrors, many of us make mistakes that could be ruining their shine. Professional cleaners have seen it all and can tell you the most common mistakes people make when it comes to cleaning their mirrors.
First, many people use chemical-based cleaning products on their mirrors, which can leave streaks and smudges. Chemical-based products can also cause the silver coating on the mirror to deteriorate over time. Instead, opt for non-toxic cleaning solutions like diluted vinegar or rubbing alcohol, which won’t damage the silver coating and will leave the mirror streak free.
Second, many people use a harsh scrubbing motion when cleaning their mirrors. This can cause the glass to scratch, leaving your mirror looking dull and discolored. The best way to clean a mirror is by using a soft cloth and gentle circular motions to remove dirt and dust without scratching the surface.
Finally, many people use paper towels or newspaper to clean their mirrors, which can transfer lint and ink onto the surface. To avoid this, use only microfiber cloths designed for glass cleaning. They are effective at removing dirt without leaving lint and streaks behind.
Avoiding these common mistakes can help keep your mirrors looking shiny and new for years to come.
What are some tips for cleaning mirrors properly?
- Choose the right cleaning solution – Glass cleaners are usually best, but if your mirrors have a special coating, make sure to use a cleaning product specifically designed for that.
- Use a soft cloth – To avoid scratches on your mirror, use a soft microfiber cloth to clean it. This will ensure you don’t damage the surface of the mirror as you clean.
- Start from the top – Begin by cleaning the top part of the mirror and work your way down. This will help ensure you don’t miss any spots.
- Wipe in circles – When wiping, move the cloth in circular motions to remove dirt and smudges more easily.
- Use distilled water – If you’re using water to clean your mirror, make sure it’s distilled. Tap water can contain minerals which can leave residue on the mirror after cleaning.
- Dry with a dry cloth – After cleaning, dry the mirror with a separate dry cloth to prevent streaks or watermarks.
- Don’t forget the frame – Don’t forget to clean the frame of the mirror, too. Make sure to use a different cloth when cleaning the frame so you don’t spread dirt from the glass onto the frame.
How often should you clean your mirrors?
The frequency with which you should clean your mirrors depends on where they are located in the home. If you have mirrors in high-traffic areas like a bathroom or living room, you should aim to clean them at least once every two weeks. In more low-traffic areas, such as hallways or bedrooms, you can stretch this out to once a month.
The most important factor in determining how often you should clean your mirrors is their location. Mirrors in bathrooms and other moisture-rich areas should be cleaned more often than those in drier environments. This is because they are more prone to developing soap scum, hard water stains, and other residue from humid air.
When cleaning mirrors, it’s important to use a soft cloth and mild cleaner that won’t scratch the glass or leave streaks. A homemade solution of equal parts vinegar and water works well for this. Make sure to wring the cloth out until it’s almost dry before wiping the mirror to avoid leaving behind too much moisture.
No matter where your mirrors are located, it’s always a good idea to do a quick check-in every couple of weeks and wipe them down if necessary. This will help keep your mirrors sparkling and streak-free for years to come.