We've all experienced it. You get out of the shower under time pressure and notice that your bathroom mirror is completely foggy. Frustrated, you rub the mirror making a squeaking noise. You can see something for a few seconds before a layer of invisible water droplets settle on the mirror. More frustration is followed by more rubbing. You're starting to wonder if there are tricks to getting rid of fogged up bathroom mirrors. But sure, there are several.
The science of steam – why does the bathroom mirror fog up?
Keeping the bathroom door completely closed during a hot shower, especially if you don't have an exhaust fan, creates clouds of steam in the air. Steam is water in a gaseous state and eventually cools down again in the form of tiny water droplets. Light traveling through water is bent. So when lots of tiny water droplets stick to a reflective surface like a mirror, vision becomes distorted and creates a white, foggy appearance. This phenomenon of light bending can also be seen in a body of water such as a pool, when an object is partly above and partly below the surface of the water, making it appear curved or misshapen underwater.
Practical tricks to prevent fogged up mirrors in the bathroom
We can all agree that taking a hot shower on a cold morning is very pleasant. But the fogged up bathroom mirror when you get out of the shower can be quite annoying. Especially if you use it for shaving or applying makeup. However, you can easily get rid of the steam with these simple tricks to prevent fogged up mirrors in the bathroom.
Run a cold shower
Would you like to alternate hot and cold showers to improve your tone and metabolism? If so, take a cold shower for at least thirty seconds. Then switch to warm water. Aside from the physical benefits, this trick also ensures that steam doesn't build up as quickly in your bathroom.
Tipp: This trick against fogged up mirrors in the bathroom works even in the smallest rooms.
Open doors and windows
Another way to cool the room without using anything is to open your doors and windows. This prevents water vapor from forming and fogging up your mirror. Ventilating your bathroom with this trick works best in the warm months. It is definitely not recommended in winter.
Tricks to prevent fogged up mirrors in the bathroom – rub soap
Take a bar of bath soap (any brand will work) and gently rub it across the surface of the mirror. Then rub the soap off the mirror surface with a towel or microfiber cloth. You can moisten the cloth if the soap does not come off easily. Wipe the mirror until the surface is clean.
Use shaving cream & shaving foam
Take a little shaving cream on your finger and spread it on the surface of your bathroom mirror. (You can also spray shaving cream directly onto the surface of the mirror). Wipe it with a soft towel or microfiber cloth. This simple trick acts as an effective barrier against steam settling on the mirror surface. Your glassware will not fog up for a few weeks.
Tricks against fogged up mirrors in the bathroom – spray Rain-X
This is a special fitting solution usually used forCar windows usedbecomes. This slightly more expensive option will keep your bathroom mirror from fogging up for a month. Spray Rain-X directly onto the surface of the mirror and wipe thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
Use glycerin
You can buy this special product at any pharmacy. Dilute glycerin with water and wipe the surface of the mirror dry with a soft towel. Since glycerin is non-toxic, it is also safe for children and pets. It's not as long-lasting as Rain-X, but it will still prevent your mirror from fogging up when you shower.
Tricks to prevent fogged up mirrors in the bathroom – mix vinegar and water
Vinegar can quickly tame fogged up mirrors. Mix vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Apply this solution to the mirror surface using a clean cloth. Wipe them away with another clean cloth. Make sure the surface is free of streaks. This inexpensive option is effective for about a week.
Extractor hood is a permanent solution
Unlike the stopgap solutions discussed so far, a range hood is a permanent option to prevent your bathroom mirror from fogging up. This is especially true if there is no window in your bathroom. The fan ensures that moisture is removed from the area after bathing or showering.
Buy bathroom mirror with demister pad
A heated demister bathroom mirror eliminates the problem of condensation and prevents the mirror surface from fogging up. A demister pad gently heats the mirror surface and keeps it free of fog and steam. These mirrors also have other features such as infrared sensors, LED lights, and built-in shaving sockets.
Tipp: Depending on how acute the problem is in your bathroom, you can decide on the best solution. If you love long, hot and relaxing showers/baths, then go for a permanent solution.
How do you choose the right mirror?Here you will findpractical tips and ideas!
