Q&A for How to Clean Mirrors

If it is a latex-based paint, gently scrape the paint off with a razor blade. If it is spray paint, use acetone on a rag to dissolve the paint.

Try using whatever glass cleaner you usually use and crumpled up newspaper.

Not necessarily. There are special products you can spray that are specifically made to be used on mirrors or glass.

If you're using a paper towel, that's most likely the cause of the lint. Try using a soft cloth instead.

Yes, you could do that.

Yes, but you will have to work quickly and in small areas because alcohol evaporates quickly. Rather than applying the alcohol to the mirror directly, apply it to a rag first, then use the rag to wipe the mirror down.

Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar, then spray the mirror with it. Wipe the mirror down with a crumpled piece of newspaper. Continue rubbing the mirror until it shines and the cloudy streaks disappear.

Spread shaving cream onto the stain with a paper towel, then wipe it off with a damp paper towel. For more stubborn stains, such as paint, wipe the stain off with a cotton ball dipped in nail polish remover.

If it seems that lint and some dust particles remain after you have cleaned the mirrors, you could use a clean dust collector/feather duster to wipe it off. Also, try wiping the mirror with an essential oil, such as eucalyptus or tea tree oil, then wiping clear.

Use a long-handled squeegee or cleaning tool to safely reach higher areas of the mirror. For cleaning, soapy water applied with a sponge followed by wiping with crumpled newspaper can effectively remove smears and enhance shine.

Using soapy water and newspaper is effective. First, use a sponge with soapy water to clean the mirror, then use newspaper to remove the soap, leaving a streak-free finish.

The intense heat may cause the mirror to expand slightly, leading to stress on the glass. Over time, this stress might cause the mirror to crack or the reflective backing to degrade, leading to spots or "mirror rot". It's a good idea to ensure some space between the mirror and the light fixtures for heat dissipation. If the lights are non-negotiable, consider using LED bulbs, which emit much less heat, to reduce the risk of damage to your mirror.

Removing an internal stain from a mirror can be tricky since it's often between the glass and the reflective coating. Here's a gentle method to try: Mix a bit of mild detergent with warm water. Dip a soft cloth in this solution, wring it out well, and gently rub the stained area. Dry the area immediately with a dry, soft cloth to prevent water damage. If the stain is internal (like desilvering or "mirror rot"), unfortunately, it's not possible to clean it from the outside.

Most mirrors can be removed from a wooden almirah, but the method depends on how the mirror is attached. Here are some general steps: Identify the attachment method—glued, nailed, or screwed. Wear gloves and eye protection, and get help if the mirror is large. For glued mirrors, heat the edges with a blow dryer to soften the glue, then use a thin wire or dental floss to cut through the adhesive. For nailed or screwed mirrors, carefully remove the nails or screws, and pry off the frame if necessary.

Warm the adhesive with a hair dryer set on low heat; the warmth will soften the Fevicol, making it easier to remove without scratching the mirror.