How to Acid Wash Mirrors

Mirrors get dirty, grimy and greasy. Regular mirror cleaners can streak and fog the glass. They also require scrubbing to get rid of toothpaste and water stains. Acid washing a mirror can leave it shiny and streak free, but acid washed mirrors are not dirt resistant after the wash.

Things You'll Need:

• Acetone (nail polish remover)


• Cotton balls


• Popsicle stick


• Gloves


• Mask


• Goggles


• Nitric acid


• Dish soap


• Cloth

1. Remove the mirror from the wall and frame. If you attempt to clean the mirror while it is still attached to the wall, the nitric acid can drip into the frame and onto the floor. This damages the floor and frame. Take the mirror outside to begin the acid wash.


2. Apply dish soap to the mirror and rinse with warm water. This removes any dust and loose dirt from the surface of the mirror. Dry the mirror with a soft cloth.


3. Put on gloves, goggles and a mask. Nitric acid is toxic and should be handled with care. Breathing in the fumes can cause burns on the lungs.


4. Douse a cotton ball in acetone. Rub the acetone cotton ball over the surface of the mirror to prepare it for the acid. Let the acetone dry before moving to the next step.


5. Attach a cotton ball to the end of a Popsicle stick. Dip the cotton ball into the nitric acid. Swab the cotton ball over the mirror. Let the mirror dry.


6. Swab another acetone soaked cotton ball across the surface of the mirror. Allow this to dry completely.


7. Soak a cotton ball in water. Wipe this over the surface of the mirror to remove the acid.


8. Repeat steps 4 through 7 until water no longer beads on the mirror.