How to Get Rid of Watermarks on Mirrors

A mirror can brighten a room and make it feel bigger, and may also serve a utilitarian purpose like the mirrors found on cars. Mirrors that are exposed to moisture, whether it is outdoors or in a bathroom, may have spots, marks and stains caused by water. Unlike more difficult dirt- or debris-based stains, these watermarks typically can't stand up to standard household cleaning supplies.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Black-and-white newsprint
• Microfiber cloth
• Glass and mirror cleaner
• Vinegar or lemon juice

1. Spray warm water onto a crumpled wad of black-and-white newsprint or a lint-free microfiber cloth. Rub onto the mirror using smooth, circular motions. Plain water will remove most light watermarks and stains.

2. Use a commercial glass and mirror cleaner spray, available from most general retailers in the household department. This option is best for heavier stains and marks. Mist lightly onto your microfiber cloth or newsprint and rub on the mirror as you would with plain water.

3. Dab several drops of white vinegar or lemon juice onto the cloth or newspaper and apply to the watermarks if they were caused by hard water. The acidic nature in the vinegar or juice will naturally dissolve the mineral deposits on the mirror's surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the mirror or have it resilvered professionally if the watermarks and stains are on the back of the mirror and showing through the front of the mirror. Such marks are typically caused by flooding or having the mirror in a humid environment such as an enclosed bathroom.
• Avoid breathing in the mirror cleaning spray. It can irritate your respiratory system.

References

• "The Cleaning Bible: Kim and Aggie's Complete Guide to Modern Household Management;" Kim Woodburn; 2008