4 Top Tips for Maximum Mirror Maintenance

Mirrors are usually pretty hardy items. Sure, when they eventually break, mirrors are a hell of a lot of work, and dropping a heavy mirror on a hard floor is probably only going to end one way. But when it comes to aging, mirrors usually are pretty good and need a relatively minor amount of attention. Rust, fading, and dust are manageable for mirrors and can be dealt with quickly. 

Of course, there are a few fundamental principles to keep in mind. Most of these will be pretty straightforward, so we’ll run through them and explain some of the best tips we can think of. 

This blog will cover the basics of mirror maintenance and go through some of the best tips to make sure your mirror stays faultless for as long as possible!

So, let’s start breaking down some info!

Keep It Alcoholic

ANDY STAR Gold Oval Pivot Mirror  

Rubbing alcohol is a fantastic product for cleaning mirrors. However, when it comes to mirrors with metal or wooden frames, water and moisture are the ultimate enemy and should be avoided at all costs. 

Rubbing or cleaning alcohol circumvents this issue a lot,  with alcohol-based cleaners evaporating quickly and keeping the amount of moisture left behind to an absolute minimum. Even better, alcohol keeps your mirror free from streaks and scratches as a result of its super quick evaporation. 

Just make sure you’re cleaning using a clean cotton pad or cloth and enjoy the results!

Stay Gentle on Dust

ANDY STAR Gold Brass Rectangular Mirror 

Mirrors can suffer a lot from dust if you allow the particles to settle for an extended amount of time. However, removing that dust can be a tricky task, with lousy technique leading to microscopic scratches that can ruin the sheen of your precious mirror. 

Most people make the mistake of choosing an abrasive cleaner, like a brush or towel, leading to some regrettable results. Instead, make sure to select a soft clean cloth, preferably microfiber, to wipe the dust from the surface of your mirror. 

Avoid Vinegar

ANDY STAR 30" Matte Black Circle Mirror

Ok, so we know we said to use alcohol to clean your mirror. But there is one thing that you really should avoid if you can - vinegar. 

First of all,  vinegar is not a  form of alcohol but rather ethynol. Second, while vinegar is famous as a cleaning solution for just about every other surface in the home, such as kitchen counters and even floors, vinegar is also a death sentence for mirrors. 

Vinegar is acidic and can instantly create long-standing damage to the surface of a mirror as it bites into the reflective layer. This manifests as cloudy spots, streaks, and scratches across the surface - so don’t do it!

Don't Get Complicated

ANDY STAR Silver Oval Mirror 

If those above tips seem overwhelming, then just remember this - keep it simple. Cleaning a mirror is pretty straightforward most of the time. Most stains or smudges don’t need more than some warm water and a paper towel to properly clean. So don’t break out the entire basket of cleaning products; most of those do more bad than good anyway. 

If you find a smudge on your mirror, just breathe - and keep things simple. The fewer products you use, the less likely long-term damage can be incurred. 

That’s it for our top tips on maintaining your mirrors at home! However, if you would like some more help choosing or caring for the perfect mirror for your home, then don't be afraid to give our team at West Mirrors a call. Our friendly group of experts would be more than happy to provide some advice and recommendations!