How to clean a bathroom mirror like a pro and completely avoid streaks

Nothing is worse than streaks on a bathroom mirror. Not only is it frustrating for you, what about visitors to your home? Will they think, “Not a very clean mirror, what else is dirty in here?” Instead of worrying about how to clean a bathroom mirror and totally avoid streaks, follow the steps here for a streak-free mirror every time.

What Not to Do

First things first; there are ways to clean a bathroom mirror that just don’t make the cut:

• Newspaper – Maybe newspaper has always been your grandfather’s go-to method, but newspaper just doesn’t work. It can leave ink and debris behind and you’ll end up cleaning and re-cleaning to no avail.
• All-Purpose Cleaner – All-purpose cleaners may be great for countertops and floors but not so much for mirrors. They can contain oils that will leave the mirror with unwanted streaks.
• Paper Towels – Although a go-to for many, paper towels leave lint and that lint can be hard to remove, even if you apply a new paper towel. Skip these as well.

Use the Right Tools for the Job

If you want a shiny mirror void of streaks, soap scum, and water splashes, you’ll need a few things first:

• Buy some flat-weave microfiber cloths. You can find them at hardware stores and any Big Box store. Make sure the package says it is “flat-weave.” A flat-weave cloth will ensure no debris or lint when cleaning your mirror. Once you have these on hand, fold them in quarters before storing.
• Rubbing Alcohol – You probably have some of this already. If not, it’s very inexpensive to purchase.
• Cotton Balls – Keep some of these handy in your bathroom. They are great for make-up globs and other built-up debris.
• Glass Cleaner – Buy a good glass cleaner. There are major brands on the market but if you compare ingredients you can also choose an off-brand. Hint: You can also skip the glass cleaner and use a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water and put in a spray bottle.

Start Cleaning!

Now that you have the right tools for the job, it’s time to get that bathroom mirror to sparkle. All you need are four easy steps:

1. Dip cotton balls in rubbing alcohol and remove makeup, water splashes from the sink, toothpaste, etc. Think of this as spot-cleaning your mirror before you get to the actual cleaning. Scan the mirror well to ensure all spots are off.
2. Spray the mirror with your glass cleaner (or white vinegar and water solution). There is no need to drench the mirror. An even spray is all you need.
3. Take your folded microfiber cloth and begin wiping the glass cleaner. Because you have pre-folded them, you’ll have four surfaces to use. Begin at the top left corner and then drag the microfiber cloth across to the right corner. Next, go to the right side of the top of the mirror and sweep left. Using this zigzag pattern will ensure a great clean. Then use an allover “S” pattern to cover the other areas of the mirror.
4. Once the mirror is dry, look at it from different angles to see if there are any streaks left you may have missed. Spray these areas and dry quickly.

Keep Your Mirror Kit Ready

Everyone has a set cleaning schedule but your bathroom mirrors may need to be cleaned more often. Keep all your tools in a small bucket or other container and then find a place you can store them. Under the bathroom sink or in a linen closet are perfect places. That way you’ll be ready in a snap when it’s time to give your bathroom mirror a sparkling look.