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Mirrors have become an essential part of our daily lives, from getting ready in the morning to touching up our appearance throughout the day. However, nothing can distract from the reflection in the mirror-like streaks and smudges. The good news is, a dirty mirror can be easily fixed. In this article, we’ll cover top tips for keeping your mirrors sparkling clean and streak-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before we dive into the best practices for cleaning mirrors, here are some of the worst. One of the biggest mistakes people make is using paper towels. Paper towels often leave behind lint and streaks, which can make your mirrors look worse than when you started. Opt for a microfiber cloth instead; these cloths are soft and won’t leave behind any residue.
Another mistake people make is using too much cleaning solution. When it comes to solutions, less is more. Using too much will increase your likelihood of leaving streaks. Use only a small amount of cleaning solution and apply it evenly across the surface of the mirror.
The last common mistake you should avoid if at all possible is cleaning mirrors in direct sunlight. The sun’s heat can cause the cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, leaving behind unwanted streaks. To prevent this, it is best to clean mirrors in a shaded area or on a cloudy day.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
It’s important to start your cleaning journey off with the right tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Microfiber cloth: As mentioned earlier, a microfiber cloth is essential. It’s gentle on the surface of the mirror and won’t leave behind any residue.
- Cleaning solution: There are many cleaning solutions available, but not all are created equal. Look for a cleaning solution specifically designed for the glass, as these will be less likely to leave behind streaks.
- Spray bottle: A spray bottle is useful for applying the cleaning solution evenly, which also helps prevent streaks.
- Squeegee: A squeegee can be helpful for removing any excess water and cleaning solution before it completely dries.
A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you are prepared with the right tools and materials, it’s time to start cleaning! Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Spray the cleaning solution onto the microfiber cloth, not directly onto the mirror.
- Step 2: Wipe the mirror with the damp cloth, starting at the top and working your way down.
- Step 3: Use a squeegee to remove any excess water and cleaning solution.
- Step 4: Repeat steps 1-3 as necessary.
- Dry and buff with a microfiber cloth: After using the squeegee, once you are happy with the cleanliness of the mirror, dry and buff the surface of the mirror with a clean microfiber cloth. This will help prevent any streaks from appearing as a result of evaporation and leave a shiny finish.
Recommended Cleaning Products
There are many cleaning products on the market, and it can be hard to decide which is worth the investment. Here are some we recommend:
- Windex Glass Cleaner: Windex is a classic glass cleaner that is effective at removing streaks and smudges from mirrors.
- Method Glass + Surface Cleaner: This all-purpose cleaner is safe for use on mirrors and other surfaces. It’s also environmentally friendly and free of harsh chemicals.
- Seventh Generation Glass Cleaner: This glass cleaner is made with plant-based ingredients and is free from ammonia and other harsh chemicals.
Alternative Cleaning Solutions
If you prefer to avoid the chemicals in many popular cleaning solutions, there are alternative methods available you can create at home. One popular method is to use a mixture of vinegar and water. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Another option is to use a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water. Just the same as the above homemade solution, mix one part rubbing alcohol with one part water in a spray bottle.
Maintenance
Mirrors are prone to collecting dust and other grime over time, but there are things you can do to help prevent buildup. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Wipe down your mirrors regularly: Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down your mirrors regularly. This will help prevent dust and dirt from building up.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage your mirrors and make them more prone to streaks. Stick to gentle cleaning solutions and avoid using abrasive materials.
- Keep the areas they are in well-ventilated: Moisture can cause streaks and smudges on mirrors. Make sure your house, particularly areas like the bathroom, are well-ventilated to prevent excess moisture from building up.
- Use a protective coating: Using a glass protective coating can help make your mirror stain and build-up resistant, making maintenance that much easier.
Conclusion
Achieving sparkly clean mirrors is easy with the right tools, materials, and techniques. By following the steps and tips discussed above, your mirror will shine bright like a diamond.
