How to Clean and Care for Your Mirrors

(ARA) - The use of mirrors in interior design hit its peak in the 1970s, when they could be found on walls, in architectural designs, and even on some ceilings. Over the next 10 years, their use declined, but designers are once again incorporating them into interiors to add substance to style.

With the addition of new shapes, edgings, decorative touches and even tasteful colors, mirrors are experiencing a renaissance. As a result, many homeowners are faced with cleaning their mirrors, yet aren't sure which materials to use. Proper cleaning procedures must be followed to ensure the long-term performance of mirrors.

Although there are many cleaning products labeled as appropriate for mirrors, their maintenance is actually simple and inexpensive. The very best and safest cleaner for a mirror is clean, warm water used with a soft, lint-free cloth. Wring all water from the cloth before wiping the mirror. Dry the mirror immediately with a dry lint-free cloth.

When cleaning, the most important thing to remember is to always avoid getting the edges of the mirror wet with any liquid or substance. This can result in damage to the mirror edges, commonly called "black edge." Should mirror edges become wet, they should be dried off immediately.

The following are recommended "dos and don'ts" from manufacturers of quality mirrors:

* Don't use acid or alkali cleaners on mirrors. Either substance can attack the front surface and edges as well as the backing of the mirror. No abrasive cleaners should ever be used on any mirror surface.

* Don't spray cleaners directly on the mirror. Always apply cleaner directly to a soft, lint-free cloth and then wipe the mirror. This will help prevent the cleaner from contacting the edges of the mirror and damaging them.

* Don't clean across the face of multiple mirrors at the same time. When cleaning several mirrors installed on a wall, wipe the joints in the same direction as the joints themselves. This will keep the cleaner from collecting in the area where the mirrors join.

* Don't use commercial mirror cleaners that contain ammonia or vinegar.

* Do use "0000" oil-free steel wool, not solvents, to remove surface marks or stubborn dirt. Use of solvents can attack and damage the edges and backing of mirrors.

* Do use soft, lint- and grit-free cloths to clean a mirror. This reduces the chances of scratching the mirror surface.

The last step to cleaning a mirror is to make sure all joints and edges are dry so that no liquid or cleaner comes into contact with the edges and backing.

Where to Find Additional Information

Members of the Mirror Division of the Glass Association of North America (GANA) encourage home owners, construction trades, general contractors, building owners and facility maintenance staff to be aware of proper cleaning procedures for mirrors and conditions that can adversely affect long-term performance. Consult the GANA Mirror Division Web site (www.mirrorlink.org) for additional resources on mirror products and links to members providing additional technical resources.

Courtesy of ARAcontent