Polycarbonate Mirror Care

Quick care summary

• Never use cleaners containing ammonia.
• Do not use Windex, 409, or similar household cleaners.
• Do not wipe polycarbonate with a dry cloth or your hand.
• Clean with soap and water, then use a clean, soft, lint-free damp cloth.
• Use Novus #1 as the recommended cleaner.
• Use non-abrasive polish for a clear, bright reflection.
• Avoid abrasives, acids, petrol, lacquer thinners, and other solvents.

Why cleaning technique matters

The care sheet identifies improper cleaners and improper cleaning techniques as the leading cause of unnecessary polycarbonate mirror damage. Dust and dirt can scratch the mirror face when dragged across the surface by a dry cloth. Use damp, soft, lint-free cloths so debris is lifted rather than rubbed into the lens.

General cleaning method

Clean polycarbonate mirror faces with soap and water, then wipe with a clean, soft, lint-free damp cloth. Novus #1 is the recommended cleaner for the mirror face.

For a clearer reflection, use a non-abrasive polish such as Johnson's Pledge or Mr. Sheen. Saturate a clean, soft cloth with polish, spray the mirror face with polish, wipe the wetted cloth over the surface, then buff with a second clean, dry cloth until the mirror is clear of polish.

Cleaners and materials to avoid

Never use ammonia-based cleaners on polycarbonate mirror. The care sheet specifically calls out Windex and 409 as cleaners that can damage polycarbonate. Do not use abrasive cleaners or pads, acids, petrol, lacquer thinners, or other solvents.

Graffiti removal

Remove graffiti from the mirror face as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours. Use only a non-abrasive, approved graffiti-removal product. The care sheet names De-Solv-it Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Australasia and De-Solv-it Graffiti Remover for Europe, while warning that not all graffiti cleaning agents are suitable.

Test cleaning products conservatively and stop if the mirror surface dulls, hazes, softens, or shows new scratches.