How to clean mirrors without streaks: the two-cloth method

Short answer

Use as little liquid as possible, wipe with one cloth, then buff dry straight away with a clean, dry microfibre polishing cloth. Streaks are leftover residue and minerals drying on the glass. Less liquid and a fast, dry buff stop them.

The two-cloth method

1. Dust first. Run a dry cloth over the mirror so you're not turning dust into smears.
2. Mist lightly. Two or three sprays covers a bathroom mirror.
3. Wipe top to bottom in an S pattern. Going round in circles just moves the residue about.
4. Buff dry straight away. Use a second, clean, dry polishing cloth before the liquid evaporates.

Why your mirror still streaks

• Too much product. More liquid on the glass means more left behind when it dries.
• Tap water. Hard water leaves mineral spots as it dries, so mirrors in hard water areas streak faster.
• A dirty or softened cloth. Wash microfibre cloths regularly and never use fabric conditioner on them.
• Cleaning in direct sun or a steamy bathroom. The liquid dries before you can buff it. Wait until the mirror is cool and the steam has cleared.

The kit

• QuickShine Glass & Shiny Stuff. Made with activated water technology, which we call hungry water. 750ml, £5.50. Use it with a microfibre cloth on glass, mirrors and stainless steel.
• Professional Polishing Cloth. Microfibre, used dry for the final polish. £5.
• EverGlass Reusable Glass Spray Bottle. A refillable glass bottle in Pink or Blue.

Cleaning the kitchen too? Read do dishwasher sheets actually work?

Shop QuickShine. Covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee, with free UK delivery over £40.

FAQ

What is the best way to clean a mirror without streaks?

Dust it first, mist lightly, wipe top to bottom in an S pattern, then buff dry straight away with a clean, dry microfibre polishing cloth.

Why does my mirror streak after cleaning?

Usually too much product, minerals from tap water drying on the glass, or a dirty or softened cloth spreading residue around.

Can I use kitchen roll on mirrors?

It can leave lint and tends to push liquid around. A dry microfibre polishing cloth is the better choice for the final buff.

How do I wash microfibre cloths?

Wash them on their own or with other microfibre, skip the fabric conditioner and let them air dry. Conditioner coats the fibres and causes smears.

Should I spray the mirror or the cloth?

For bathroom mirrors either works if you use two or three light sprays. Near frames, sockets or screens, spray the cloth instead.