You could believe you know what to use and how to clean a mirror. However, you’re making two serious errors if you just Windex it in a circular motion using a paper towel.
The commercial cleaning solution is the first error. Yes, they work, but a homemade alternative that is just as effective may be developed quickly and for a lot less money. Additionally, you will reduce the amount of plastics that wind up in landfills and prevent the introduction of needless chemicals into your household.
The circular motion and paper towel are the second error. Does that mean there are three errors? In any case, continue reading to find out how to clean your mirrors more sustainably and some tips for doing so without leaving lint residue or streaks behind.
Read also: Tips to Make Your Cleaning Easy When You Are Tired
Things to Think About Before You Begin
Clean the Frame First
Spend some time cleaning the frame or stand if your mirror has one. Even though it can seem apparent, your sparkling mirror could nevertheless appear unclean if you neglect to clean the frame. If you clean the frame first, you’ll probably need to clean the mirror again to get rid of any smudges or residue from the frame-cleaning process, and nobody wants to do that.
Which Cleaner to Use?
Although it’s not for everyone, we advise utilizing the more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option of making your own cleaning solution with supplies you most likely already have. If you decide to use a commercial mirror cleaner, pick one made especially for glass.
Making your own vinegar-water solution at home is simple, less harmful, less costly, and environmentally beneficial if you’re up to the task. Additionally, it keeps a bathroom mirror from steaming up for approximately a week following a shower. Apply the mixture directly to the mirror, let it sit for a minute, and then wipe it off to improve its de-fogging properties.
What to Wipe With
Even though you might be accustomed to cleaning a mirror with a paper towel or newspaper, these single-use products aren’t always eco-friendly. Additionally, they frequently leave dust, lint, paper fragments, or ink residue on your otherwise spotless mirror.
Rather, use a microfiber towel or a lint-free cloth, which removes oil and grime without leaving a lint trail. Instead of throwing the cleaning cloth in the garbage after wiping, put it in the washing machine. The older the newspaper, the less inky it will probably be if you insist on using it.
Think About Steam Cleaning
You might already have one of the greatest mirror-cleaning techniques if you have a steam cleaner with a squeegee attachment. Steamers work well without the need for harsh chemicals or other treatments. Simply move your steamer up and down the surface while the squeegee is linked to the nozzle, and observe the steam as it works its magic.
How to Use Vinegar to Clean a Mirror
Combine a Solution
To make your own remedy, fill a spray container with one part vinegar and one part water, then shake thoroughly. If the water in your home has a tendency to be hard, use distilled water. Naturally, if you’re using a commercial cleaner, omit this step.
Spray
Directly mist the cloth with the vinegar mixture or glass cleaner. This prevents the cleaner from leaking beneath the silver covering, which could result in rust or black tarnish markings. However, you can spray the mirror directly if you know you work quickly. (Usually, this produces better outcomes.)
Wipe
Wipe in a tight S-pattern from top to bottom, ensuring that a single swipe covers the whole mirror’s surface. Wipe the mirror in an S-pattern, beginning at the top and working your way down, using a microfiber cloth. If you have already cleaned an area, try not to go back.
Read also: Tips to Make Your Cleaning Easy When You Are Tired