Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, has many uses around the home from disinfecting cuts, to removing stubborn stickers off of glassware. Rubbing alcohol also makes a very effective mirror cleaner that leaves a sparkling, streak-free finish.
Yes, you can clean mirrors with rubbing alcohol. Simply dampen a clean, dry cloth with some rubbing alcohol and wipe the surface of your mirror, paying extra attention to the corners and edges. Because rubbing alcohol evaporates so quickly, there is no need to follow it with another damp cloth. It will dry on its own, leaving a streak-free shine.
Many people have rubbing alcohol readily available in their medicine cabinets making it an accessible and easy mirror cleaner.
Will Rubbing Alcohol Keep My Mirrors from Fogging Up?
Rubbing alcohol is very effective at cleaning mirrors and removing any stubborn residue such as toothpaste splatters and hairspray. It will leave your mirror with a streak-free shine however because it evaporates quickly and completely, it does not prevent your mirrors from getting fogged up by the steam of a hot shower.
To prevent your mirrors from fogging up, you should use something with a surfactant quality like soap or toothpaste to create a barrier between the shower steam and the surface of the mirror.
Does Cleaning a Mirror with Rubbing Alcohol Leave Streaks?
Cleaning a mirror with rubbing alcohol does not leave streaks. If there are streaks leftover, it is indicative of other residues such as hairspray and other splatters that may still be on the mirror. Rubbing alcohol is very effective at lifting away stubborn residues and because it evaporates quickly and completely, it does not leave behind any streaks.
How to Clean a Mirror Using Rubbing Alcohol?
To clean your mirror with rubbing alcohol, simply pour some onto a dry, clean cloth and wipe your mirror with it, paying extra attention to any corners or edges (especially on framed mirrors). Because rubbing alcohol evaporates so quickly, there is no need to follow it with another damp cloth. It should dry quickly leaving behind a streak-free finish.
Is Cleaning a Mirror with Rubbing Alcohol Dangerous?
Using rubbing alcohol to clean your mirror is not any more dangerous than using rubbing alcohol to clean any other surface. It will not damage your mirror however be mindful not to use rubbing alcohol on other glass surfaces like eyewear as it can damage the lens coating.
On its own, isopropyl alcohol is a hazardous substance and you should exercise caution when using and storing it. It should be stored away from any sources of open flames or sparks as this substance is highly flammable. Once it evaporates on the surface of your mirror, it is no longer flammable.
Rubbing alcohol is also an irritant to the eyes, skin, and nose. Long-lasting inhalation or ingestion can result in nausea, dizziness, and an upset stomach. If you inhale too much of it or ingest it, you should reach out to your local poison control center immediately. This is also the case if you get some in your eyes. Immediately flush the impacted eye with water and seek medical attention.
What are some Alternative Ways to Clean a Mirror?
If you do not wish to clean your mirror with rubbing alcohol, you can use conventional chemical spray mirror cleaners, plain water, microfiber cloths, vinegar, lemon juice, or even used newspapers. The method by which you clean your mirror comes down to personal preference and what you have available to use in your household.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your mirror can be done effectively and easily with rubbing alcohol. It makes light work of cleaning away any stuck-on residues like toothpaste and hair spray. Because it evaporates so quickly and completely, it leaves your mirror with a streak-free shine.
Read related articles about cleaning mirrors:
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Mineral Spirits?
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Bleach?
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Disinfecting Wipes?
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Just Water?
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Vinegar?
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Toothpaste?
- Can You Clean a Mirror with Soda?
Jamie is the Founder of My Home Dwelling. He is a homeowner and enjoys sharing his homeowner tips with others. He has real estate experience working as a new home construction Realtor. Jamie has worked on numerous residential construction sites helping with interior and exterior renovations. He loves refinishing furniture, DIY home projects, and sharing his knowledge online.