7 Ways to Stop Bathroom Mirror from Fogging Up

Adam-Paul
Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Bathroom mirror fogging up is a situation where condensation forms on the mirror’s surface during or after showering time. Bathroom mirror fogging up occurs due to condensation of the moisture on the mirror surface due to the cooled mirror surface as tiny droplets. Fogged bathroom mirrors reduce visibility, increase the safety hazard, increase the cleaning frequency and reduce the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom. In order to prevent these problems you should defog it by following below 8 ways. 

8 Ways to stop bathroom mirror form fogging up

  1. Apply rain-x in the bathroom mirror
  2. Apply shaving cream in the bathroom mirror
  3. Rug a soap bar in the bathroom mirror
  4. Apply a mixture of vinegar in the bathroom mirror
  5. Apply glycerin in the bathroom mirror
  6. Install a heated mirror pad in the bathroom mirror
  7. Run the bathroom fan during shower time
  8. Improve the ventilation during shower time

Bathroom mirrors can fog up during shower due to warm moisture, temperature difference between steam and mirror surface, higher humidity in the bathroom and lack of ventilation. You can permanently antifog your bathroom mirror by installing heated mirror pads, applying an antifog coating, installing an exhaust fan in the bathroom and installing a dehumidifier in the bathroom to reduce moisture accumulation. 

Stop Bathroom Mirror Fogging Up

How to Stop Bathroom Mirror from Fogging Up?

You can stop bathroom mirror from fogging up by following these 8 ways

8 Ways to stop bathroom mirror form fogging up

  1. Apply rain-x in the bathroom mirror
  2. Apply shaving cream in the bathroom mirror
  3. Rug a soap bar in the bathroom mirror
  4. Apply a mixture of vinegar in the bathroom mirror
  5. Apply glycerin in the bathroom mirror
  6. Install a heated mirror pad in the bathroom mirror
  7. Run the bathroom fan during shower time
  8. Improve the ventilation during shower time

1. Apply Rain-X in the Bathroom Mirror

You can apply Rain-X on the bathroom mirror to prevent fog on the surface. You can follow these steps for applying defog product on the bathroom mirror.

Steps for applying Rain-X on Bathroom Mirror: First you should start by cleaning the bathroom mirror with a glass cleaner to remove any dirt or streaks. After the bathroom mirror is completely dry, spray a small amount of Rain-X onto a soft cloth or microfiber towel. Using circular motions, gently rub the Rain-X across the entire bathroom mirror surface. You should apply Rain-X all over the bathroom mirror surface including frames and edges of the mirror.

Application time of the Rain-X on the bathroom mirror: To apply Rain-X on the bathroom mirror will take less than 5 minutes. But it depends on the on the size of the mirror. 

Cost for applying Rain-X on the bathroom mirror: You will cost a bottle of Rain-X typically around $5-$10, and a single bottle can be used multiple times on various mirrors. 

Remain time of the Rain-X on the bathroom mirror: Rain-X will remain effective for about 2-3 weeks, depending on the frequency of your showers and the humidity in the bathroom once it is applied on the bathroom mirror. During this period, your mirror will stay fogless, preventing that always foggy, cloudy mirror look. You should apply Rain-X regular in the bathroom mirror to maintain a mist mirror-free bathroom experience.

Rain-X

2. Apply Shaving Cream in the Bathroom Mirror

Shaving cream helps to prevent fogging on the bathroom mirror surface. Follow these steps to apply this antifog solution on your bathroom mirror.

Steps for applying shaving cream on bathroom mirror: First, clean the bathroom mirror with a glass cleaner to ensure it's free of dirt and streaks. Once the mirror is dry, apply a small amount of shaving cream directly onto the mirror surface. Using a soft cloth or paper towel, spread the shaving cream evenly across the entire bathroom mirror, including the edges and any frame materials until it becomes a thin layer.

Application Time of Shaving Cream on the Bathroom Mirror: Applying shaving cream to the bathroom mirror will take around 5 minutes. The time may vary depending on whether you're working with a frameless vanity mirror or a full-length shower mirror.

Advantages of Using Shaving Cream: Applying shaving cream on the bathroom mirror as an antifog solution is a cost-effective, easy to apply and temporary solution with minimum effort and experience.

Cost for applying shaving cream on the bathroom mirror: Shaving cream typically costs between $1-$3 per tube. You can use your regular shaving cream on the bathroom mirror without spending any additional cost.

Remain time of shaving cream on the bathroom mirror: The antifog effect of shaving cream usually lasts for about 1-2 weeks. The defoging time depends on the frequency of showers and the humidity levels in the bathroom. 

Shaving Cream For Bathroom Mirror Fog

3. Rug a Soap Bar in the Bathroom Mirror

You can rub a soap bar in the bathroom mirror to prevent fog from forming on the mirror surface. Follow these steps to apply this simple antifog solution to your bathroom mirror.

Steps for rubbing a soap bar on bathroom mirror: First, clean the bathroom mirror with a glass cleaner to ensure it’s free of any dirt or streaks. After the mirror is completely dry, take a dry bar of soap and gently rub it directly onto the mirror surface. Make sure to cover the entire mirror, including the edges and any frame materials. Once the soap is applied, use a soft cloth or paper towel to buff the mirror in circular motions until the soap is completely clear, leaving a thin, invisible layer.

Application time for rubbing a soap bar on the bathroom mirror: Rubbing a soap bar in the bathroom mirror will take about 5 minutes, depending on the size of the mirror. 

Advantages of rubbing a soap bar: Applying a soap bar on the bathroom mirror as an antifog solution is an efficient, quick time, cost-effective, easy-to-apply, and temporary solution with minimum effort and experience.

Cost for rubbing a soap bar on the bathroom mirror: A bar of soap typically costs between $1-$4, depending on the brand. You can use daily use bar on the bathroom mirror without any extra investment.

Remain time of soap bar on the bathroom mirror: The defog effect of the soap bar usually lasts for about 1 week. It will easily remove if the bathroom is higher humidity and water spreading on the bathroom mirror.

4. Apply a Mixture of Vinegar in the Bathroom Mirror

You can use a mixture of vinegar on the bathroom mirror to prevent fog from forming. Follow these steps to apply this natural antifog solution on your bathroom mirror.

Steps for using a mixture of vinegar on bathroom mirror: Start by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Clean the bathroom mirror first with a glass cleaner to remove any dirt or streaks. Once the mirror is clean and dry, spray the vinegar mixture evenly across the entire bathroom mirror surface, including the edges and any frame materials. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe the mirror in circular motions, ensuring the mixture is spread evenly and leaves a thin, invisible layer that will help prevent fog over the mirror surface

Application time for applying vinegar mixture on the bathroom mirror: Applying the vinegar mixture on the bathroom mirror will take approximately 5 minutes, depending on the size of the mirror.

Advantages of using a mixture of vinegar in the bathroom mirror: Using a mixture of vinegar on the bathroom mirror as an antifog solution is a natural, cost-effective, and easy-to-apply method that doesn’t require any specialized products.

Cost for using a mixture of vinegar on bathroom mirror: You will costs around $2-$4 per bottle of vinegar to apply vinegar in the bathroom mirror.

Remain Time of the vinegar mixture on the bathroom mirror: The antifog effect of the vinegar mixture usually lasts for about 1 week, depending on the frequency of showers and the humidity levels in your bathroom.

Bathroom Mirror Fog

5. Apply Glycerin in the Bathroom Mirror

You can use glycerin in the bathroom mirror to prevent fog from forming on the surface. Follow these steps to apply this effective antifog solution on your bathroom mirror.

Steps for using glycerin on bathroom mirror: First you should clean the bathroom mirror with a glass cleaner to remove any dirt or streaks. Once the mirror is completely dry, apply a few drops of glycerin onto a soft cloth or microfiber towel. Gently rub the glycerin across the entire mirror surface, including the edges and any frame materials using circular motions.

Application time for using glycerin on the bathroom mirror: Applying glycerin to the bathroom mirror will take around 5-10 minutes. This depends on the size of the bathroom mirror.

Advantages of using glycerin on bathroom mirror: Applying glycerin on the bathroom mirror as an antifog solution is a cost-effective, easy-to-apply, and safe method that is gentle on mirror surfaces and requires minimal effort.

Cost for using glycerin on the bathroom mirror: You have to spend $5-$10 for a small bottle of glycerin to use as antifog liquid in the bathroom mirror. You can use glycerin several time for the bathroom mirror once you purchased it.

Remain time of using glycerin on the bathroom mirror: The antifog effect of glycerin can last for up to a month in the bathroom mirror. But this depends on the frequency of showers and the humidity levels in your bathroom. During this period, your mirror will stay fogless, preventing that always foggy, cloudy mirror appearance. Regular reapplication is necessary to maintain a mist mirror-free environment.

6. Install a Heated Mirror Pad in the Bathroom Mirror

You can install a heated mirror pad to keep your bathroom mirror fog free permanently. Follow these steps to install this effective antifog solution on your bathroom mirror.

Steps for installing a heated mirror pad: First you should choose a heated mirror pad that fits your bathroom mirror's size. Turn off the power to the bathroom at the circuit breaker for safety. Carefully remove the mirror from the wall, especially if it’s frameless. Clean the back of the mirror to ensure proper adhesion. Peel off the backing from the heated pad and stick it directly to the center of the mirror’s backside, ensuring it's evenly applied. Next, connect the heated pad’s wiring to the bathroom’s electrical circuit, following the manufacturer's instructions. Once connected, carefully reattach the mirror to the wall. Turn the power back on and test the mirror pad to ensure it’s working correctly.

Installation time of the heated mirror pad: Installing a heated mirror pad on the bathroom mirror typically takes around 30-60 minutes. The installing time of the heated mirror pad depends on your experience level and the complexity of the bathroom mirror setup.

Advantages of installing a heated mirror pad: Installing a heated mirror pad on the bathroom mirror as an antifog solution is a permanent, long-lasting, and efficient solution that requires no reapplication and ensures a clear, fog-free mirror after every shower in the bathroom.

Cost for installing heated mirror pad: The cost of a heated mirror pad varies based on size and brand, typically ranging from $40-$100. While the initial investment is higher compared to temporary solutions, it offers a permanent fog-free experience.

Heated Mirror Pad

7. Run the Bathroom Fan During Shower Time

Running the bathroom exhaust fan during your shower time is a simple and effective way to keep your bathroom mirror fog free. Follow these steps to use your bathroom fan as fog removal solution.

Steps for running the bathroom fan during shower: Before you start your shower, turn on the bathroom fan. The fan helps to circulate air and reduce the humidity in the bathroom, preventing the mirror from becoming foggy. Make sure the fan is running for the entire duration of the shower and leave it on for a few minutes afterwards to allow the excess moisture to dissipate. 

Bathroom fan running time: You should run the bathroom fan the entire showering time. As well as you should run it 1-2 minutes after you close the bathroom shower to remove excess moisture inside the bathroom. 

Advantages of running the bathroom fan: Running the bathroom fan during a shower as an antifog solution is an easy, energy-efficient, and cost-effective method with no additional products required. As well as it prevents other water damage to the walls, fixtures and structure due to removing moisture in the bathroom.

Cost for running the bathroom fan during shower: The cost of running a bathroom fan is a few cents of dollars during shower time.

8. Improve the Ventilation During Shower Time 

You can improve the ventilation in the bathroom during showering time. You can follow the below steps to improve the ventilation in the bathroom to prevent fogging.

Turn on the bathroom fan: Ensure that the bathroom fan is running before you start your shower. This helps to circulate air and reduce humidity which cause for fogging in the mirror.

Open the bathroom window: You can open a window in the bathroom to allow fresh air to flow in and excess moisture to escape. This is especially useful in reducing humidity levels quickly and preventing mirror fogging.

Use a dehumidifier in the bathroom: Consider using a portable dehumidifier in the bathroom to reduce overall moisture levels. Place it near the shower area for optimal performance.

Keep the bathroom door open: If privacy allows, keep the bathroom door slightly open during the shower to facilitate airflow and prevent moisture buildup.

What is Bathroom Mirror from Foggin Up?

Bathroom mirror fogging up is a situation where condensation forms on the mirror’s surface during or after showering time. Bathroom mirror fogging occurs due to condensation of the moisture on the mirror surface due to the cooled mirror surface as tiny droplets. These droplets create a foggy or cloudy appearance on the mirror. 

The fogging up of the bathroom mirror prevents clear reflection from the mirror. Prolonged fogging up causes to water damage the bathroom mirror by growing mold and mildew growth on the surface and frame.

Bathroom Mirror Fog

What Fogs up a Bathroom Mirror During a Shower? 

Bathroom mirror can fog up during shower due to warm moisture, temperature difference between steam and mirror surface, higher humidity in the bathroom and lack of ventilation.

  • Warm moisture in the bathroom: The hot water from the shower generates steam in the bathroom. When this warm, moist air comes into contact with the cooler surface of the bathroom mirror, the water vapor condenses into tiny droplets. 
  • High humidity in the bathroom: The excess moisture in the air in the bathroom can easily condense on the mirror's surface, leading to fogging.
  • Lack of ventilation in the bathroom: Inadequate ventilation can trap the warm, moist air in the bathroom, increasing the likelihood of fog forming on the mirror.
  • Temperature difference: The temperature difference between the hot steam and the cooler mirror surface causes the water vapor to condense in the mirror surface.

Read more: Bathroom Vanity Water Damages and How to Clean Them?

How do you Make Mirror Antifog?

You can antifog bathroom mirror permanently by following the 4 steps

4 Steps to antifog bathroom mirror.

  1. Install a heated mirror pad 
  2. Apply a commercial antifog coating in the mirror
  3. Install a bathroom ventilation fan
  4. Install a dehumidifier in the bathroom
Clean Bathroom Mirror Fog

Are there Fogproof Mirrors?

Yes, there are fogproof mirrors that you can use in your bathroom. Fogproof mirrors are mainly 4 types such as heated mirrors, antifog mirrors, ventilation mirrors and LED mirrors with defogging technology. 

Can Bathroom Waterproofing Stop Mirrors from Fogging Up?

Bathroom waterproofing does not stop mirrors from fogging up. Fogging occurs in the bathroom due to condensation when warm, moist air comes into contact with the cooler surface of the mirror. To prevent mirror fogging, consider using a heated mirror, applying anti-fog spray, or improving ventilation in the bathroom.