Cleaning your mirror can be a pain in the you-know-what — especially when it’s covered in fingerprints, makeup, or soap scum. Luckily, with the right cleaner, you can get that mirror sparkling clean in no time. Windex fits the job description perfectly.
Spray Windex on a microfiber cloth and use it to gently wipe the mirror. Don’t spray Windex directly on the mirror to avoid streaking and puddling at the edges. Move the cloth in an S-pattern motion from the top to the bottom until it’s clean. Lastly, wipe the mirror using a dry microfiber cloth.
As you can see, using Windex for a streak-free shine on your mirrors is a breeze. Let’s take a closer look at how to properly use Windex on your mirrors. We’ll also go through some pretty good Windex alternatives, just in case you prefer another option.
Should You Use Windex to Clean Mirrors?
While a mixture of water and vinegar is arguably the best way to clean your mirror, Windex is another excellent option to try. It’s affordable and easy to find, and it cuts through grime perfectly. Plus, the signature blue formula is pretty satisfying to watch as you wipe away all the dirt.
When using Windex, make sure the edges don’t remain wet for too long, as this can cause streaking. Also, avoid using paper towels, which can leave lint behind. Instead, use a clean, soft cloth.
How to Clean Mirrors Using Windex
All you need for this process is Windex (on Amazon) and a microfiber cloth (also on Amazon).
- Begin by spraying Windex on the microfiber cloth — not directly on the mirror. This is important to prevent streaking and puddling at the edges. You also want to avoid the liquid seeping behind its silver coating and creating black tarnish marks.
- Gently wipe the mirror in an S-pattern motion from the top to the bottom until it’s clean.
- Finally, use a dry part of the microfiber cloth to buff away any leftover residue.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Windex?
Don’t have access to Windex? No problem! There are plenty of other cleaning products that can get the job done.
Here are some of the best alternatives:
Soap and Water
A simple mixture of soap and water can be as effective as Windex for cleaning mirrors. Simply add a drop or two of dish soap to a bowl of warm water and use a soft cloth to wipe down the mirror.
Alcohol
Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol is great for cleaning mirrors because it evaporates quickly and doesn’t leave behind any streaks. It also works as a good disinfectant and hand sanitizer. Pour a small amount onto a soft cloth and wipe down the mirror.
Vinegar
White vinegar (on Amazon) is another effective cleaning solution for mirrors. To use it, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl and use a soft cloth to wipe down the mirror. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the mixture to help cut through any lingering grease or grime.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can be used to clean mirrors. Make a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water, then leave it for about 3½ hours.
After the allotted time, use a soft cloth to rub it onto the mirror in a circular motion. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and can be used to clean mirrors. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a bowl and use a soft cloth to wipe down the mirror.
Which Type of Cloth Is Best?
Before cleaning any mirror, it is important to choose the right material for the job. A microfiber cloth is always the best choice for cleaning mirrors and windows. It’s soft, it doesn’t scratch the surface of the mirror, and it absorbs liquid well.
Many people tend to use a paper towel or napkin when cleaning windows and mirrors. Paper towels are excellent for spills since they’re so absorbent, but they’re equally awful for cleaning mirrors. They’re abrasive and can leave behind tiny scratches.
Sponges and squeegees are good for applying soap and water to the surface, especially with large mirrors. But they’re porous and can hold onto dirt and dust, so it’s important to rinse them often.
Tips for Avoiding Streaks
Here are a few tips to avoid streaks and cloudiness when cleaning mirrors:
- Whenever possible, use clean, warm water to clean your windows. Warm water is more efficient in removing dirt than cold water.
- Avoid alkaline or acidic cleaners. These can attack the surface of the mirror, causing it to become dull and streaky.
- If you must use a cleaner, choose one that is designed specifically for cleaning windows. Windex is one such product.
- Don’t forget to rinse and dry your mirror after cleaning it. It allows it to dry naturally after rinsing it.
- Finally, avoid using abrasive materials such as scouring pads or steel wool. These can scratch the surface of the mirror, leaving streaks behind.
The Final Word
With just a few simple steps, you can clean your mirror and have it looking streak-free in no time! Windex is an excellent product to use for this task.
Be sure to avoid cleaners that are too harsh. There are plenty of other natural cleaning products that you can use.
Remember to rinse and dry your mirror thoroughly after cleaning.