Mirror Care and Maintenance Tips

A mirror can do so much in a room. Not only can it create the illusion of more space, one with intricate and unique designs can be a great conversation piece or even a piece of art. That is why it is important to keep them clean so they can do what they are supposed to do more effectively. Here are some tips to take good care of your mirrors so they can maintain their beauty in the years to come:

The simplest and safest way to clean your mirrors, especially new ones, is with the use of clean, warm water and paper towel or soft rag.

Even old newspapers will work. Do not use dirty or gritty rags, which can likely scratch the mirror’s surface. Other cleaning materials that can damage your mirrors include emery cloth and scraper so make sure not to use them. Also, frequent dusting will help keep the luster and shine of stained and painted finishes.

Make sure that the areas where the mirrors are installed are well-ventilated. 

This is to keep your mirrors from “sweating” or creating moisture, which can eventually lead to damage.

Keep mirrors dry.

For mirrors which are installed in areas with high humidity such as the bathroom, make sure to always keep the mirrors dry to prevent moisture from eventually damaging the edges, paint, etc.

Avoid using heavy-duty cleaning solutions that may contain abrasives and/or alkali.

Also, stay away from cleaners that contain ammonia, chlorine bleach, or any strong chemical.

If you want to use a cleaner, do not spray or apply it directly to the mirror.

Most cleaners will run down the glass and go through the seams and edges – damaging the mirror backing. Either spray the cleaning agent to a clean cloth or dilute it first with some water before applying it to the mirror’s surface.

For mirrored furniture, use a soft and lint-free cloth or microfiber towel to remove dust. 

This will likewise remove smudges, fingerprints, and other marks. Also, wipe water or spilled liquid right away. This can affect the mirror finish if left for a long time.

Inspect the mirrored furniture once a month to check if there are chipped parts and scratches. Have them repaired before it gets worse

Be extra careful when moving mirrors and mirrored furniture from one area of your home to another.

This will avoid any breakage, scratches, and/or chipped edges. In some cases, you may want to use gloves so the face or backing of the mirror will not be damaged. For heavy/large/delicate items, it may be better to hire a professional to do it for you.

Install mirrors away from doors.

Otherwise, you can accidentally hit them when you open a door or closet.

Unpack new mirrors.

For new mirrors, fresh from the store, unpack them as soon as possible to allow moisture during shipment to dissipate.

These are just some of the tips to keep your mirrors clean and of good quality. With proper care and maintenance, you can make them smudge- and scratch-free for a long time, extending their life as great additions to your home.