To clean a brass mirror, wipe the frame with a soft, dry cloth and clean the glass with glass cleaner sprayed onto the cloth, never straight onto the mirror. That one habit keeps liquid away from the brass and is the easiest way to keep a handmade mirror looking its best for years.
What you need
- Two soft, lint-free cloths (microfiber works well): one for the frame, one for the glass
- A gentle glass cleaner
- Optional: a brass cleaner, only if you want to polish away patina
How do I clean the brass frame?
Dust the frame with a soft, dry cloth, following the length of the frame rather than scrubbing in circles. On reeded or grooved frames, like our arched brass wall mirror with reeded frame, run the cloth along the grooves so dust doesn't collect in the lines. Avoid abrasive pads, scouring powders and harsh household cleaners, which can scratch or dull the metal.
How do I clean the mirror glass?
Spray a little glass cleaner onto your second cloth, then wipe the glass from top to bottom. Spraying the cloth instead of the mirror stops drips from running into the frame and onto the brass. Finish with a dry part of the cloth for a streak-free reflection.
Why is my brass mirror getting darker?
Our mirror frames are made from solid unlacquered brass, which reacts naturally with air and moisture. Over time it darkens into a warm, softer tone called patina. This is normal and is one of the reasons people love living with real brass: each piece slowly develops its own character.
Should I keep the patina or polish it?
That is entirely up to you. If you love an aged, antique look, simply keep dusting and let the patina deepen. If you prefer a brighter shine, polish the frame with a brass cleaner, following the product's instructions and testing a small hidden area first. Keep polish off the mirror glass.
Can I hang a brass mirror in a bathroom?
Yes, a well-ventilated bathroom is a beautiful place for a brass mirror. Expect unlacquered brass to develop its patina a little faster in a humid room. Wiping the frame dry after steamy showers helps if you want to slow that down.
Quick care checklist
- Dust the frame weekly with a soft, dry cloth
- Spray glass cleaner onto the cloth, never onto the mirror
- Skip abrasive pads and harsh cleaners
- Enjoy the patina, or polish it back with a brass cleaner
Looking for a mirror that ages beautifully? Explore our modern brass mirrors, or contact us with any care questions.
