5 effective ways to stop condensation gathering on your bathroom mirror

Condensation appearing on bathroom mirrors is a common occurrence, especially during colder weather when we have hot showers and baths, and we're less likely to have any windows open.

Unless you're content with bathing in ice cold water for the foreseeable future, the condensation on your bathroom mirror is going to stay. But there are many different ways to tackle this common problem, say our experts.

Our HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) pros share five different methods you can use to banish the condensation on your bathroom mirror. These preventative measures and ways to reduce humidity will keep your mirror crystal clear and water-free.

Ways to stop condensation on bathroom mirrors

As noted by Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician at Air Conditioner Lab, 'When you shower, hot water raises the humidity level in the bathroom. Warm air comes into contact with the cooler surface of the mirror, causing the water vapor to accumulate.'

Since condensation appearing on bathroom mirrors after a shower or bath is such a normal thing, you may believe it doesn't really have any impact. However, if condensation is left to repeatedly collect on your mirror, your fixtures and furniture can become damaged over time and even impact your health.

Francis Kaspar of The Chill Brothers, an award-winning HVAC service in Texas, says, 'You might not think mirror condensation is a big deal but it can be, especially if it's happened over a long period of time.

'Firstly, the constant moisture creates the perfect spot for mold and mildew to thrive, which nobody wants to be breathing in. Over time the edges of your mirror might develop black spots from this too. This is called desilvering, and it's not a good look. The streaks, water spots and fog on your bathroom mirror make using the mirror more difficult in general as well.'

So now you know the risks of leaving condensation to cultivate on your bathroom mirror, it's time to delve into the vapor barriers and other methods to prevent the problem at its source.

1. Improve bathroom ventilation in combination with adding a dehumidifier

The easiest thing to do to help prevent condensation from gathering on your bathroom mirror is to improve the ventilation in your bathroom. Doing this will allow the warm, stuffy air a way out of the room, and fresher air in to regulate the room's overall temperature.

'Proper ventilation removes excess moisture from the air, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming on mirrors and other surfaces,' says Josh.

There are many ways to do this, from opening windows to reduce condensation to running your bathroom's exhaust fan, so use what you have to improve the ventilation of your bathroom, and if it still doesn't seem like enough consider purchasing some additional items.

'I recommend turning on your exhaust fan while you shower and letting it run for 10-15 minutes afterwards,' says Francis. 'No fan? Crack a window or keep the door slightly open.'

I tested out how quickly condensation left my bathroom mirror after opening a window and it dissipated really well in around 20 minutes. Since it's cold outside though, I'd recommend putting some heating on if you do this as otherwise you'll be freezing.

Adding a dehumidifier into the mix will make this all the more effective, but to avoid any safety risk, pop it next to the open bathroom door after your bathing has finished, rather than running it inside the bathroom. Technically, the bathroom is a 'wet room' and dehumidifiers are an electrical risk. Learn more about where you should place your dehumidifier.

If you're still really struggling with moisture, adding in a moisture absorber or two like the DAMPRID fragrance free hi-capacity moisture absorbing buckets from Amazon should do the trick.

Amazon's Choice dehumidifier is the TABYIK 35 oz small dehumidifier which is perfectly portable to bring onto the landing after you bathe.

Francis also recommends the Eva-Dry Dehumidifier, also available on Amazon. 'It’s reusable, compact, and doesn’t need electricity.'

2. Apply an anti-fog spray

Anti-fog sprays, available at Walmart, are designed to specifically aid with the issue of bathroom mirrors fogging up in a warm room. This makes it an ideal accomplice in the battle of beating your bathroom mirror's condensation.

'Anti-fog sprays create a protective coating on the mirror's surface that repels water,' says Josh. 'To use it, all you need to do is spray a small amount onto the mirror, wipe it evenly with a microfiber cloth, and let it dry. For the best results, reapply a new layer every few weeks.'

Francis adds, 'Don't forget to clean your mirror and avoid mirror cleaning mistakes first to help the product adhere and last as long as possible.'

Josh recommends using the invisible glass anti-fog windshield treatmentfor the job. 'This spray is simple to use and lasts longer than many competitors.'

3. Install a heated mirror pad

I didn't know heated mirrors and mirror pads existed before talking to Bob at New Panes Creations. But after hearing how convinced he was that they were the most effective solution to bathroom mirror condensation I was keen to learn more.

'Many methods to remove condensation from bathroom mirrors are a pain and only fix the issue temporarily,' says Bob. 'If you're looking for something easy and permanent, the best way to stop a mirror from gathering condensation is to get a heated one.'

To turn your bathroom mirror into a heated mirror, all you need to do is attach a heated pad designed for mirrors behind it.

Josh recommends opting for the ClearlyYou™ Mirror Defoggers as they are affordable, easy to install, and work well for most bathroom mirrors.

'A heated pad warms the back of the mirror, preventing it from getting cold enough for condensation to form,' says Josh. 'Install the pad behind the mirror and connect it to the bathroom's light switch so it turns on when you use the bathroom.'

4. Install a mirror with built-in anti-fog technology

If you've got the budget to invest in a new mirror or your current one is in dire need of replacement, it's worth considering looking into mirrors with anti-fog technology. These models won't fog up in the bathroom, so you won't have the problem at all in your home to begin with.

'These mirrors feature built-in heating elements or special coatings that help prevent condensation,' says Josh.

Josh recommends looking into the mirrors sold at Hauschen Home, such as the LED medicine cabinet lighted bathroom mirror with defogger. 'The anti-fog capabilities and energy-efficient LED lighting of these mirrors make them a practical upgrade for your home while also making your bathroom look more luxurious.'

Francis adds, ' A mirrored cabinet door is usually less exposed to steam too, so it fogs up less.'

5. Use one of these DIY solutions

There are a few DIY home remedies that can help prevent the accumulation of condensation on a bathroom mirror in the shorter term, and you will likely have the ingredients in your home already. I tried them all out.

• Soap: Josh says, 'A thin layer of soap reduces water's surface tension, preventing it from forming droplets on the mirror. Apply a drop of liquid soap or shampoo to a cloth, spread it evenly over the mirror, and buff it with a dry cloth. Repeat as needed.' When I tried this out it felt strange smearing soap on my mirror, and I was worried about creating smudges. It did work and prevented condensation but some smears of soap were visible and you have to be careful to get every piece of the glass without sticking too much soap near where the frame attaches. This works better if your mirror has no frame.
• Vinegar mix: Francis says, 'Combine equal parts water and vinegar, spritz it on, and wipe it off. Easy-peasy.' I was worried it would stain or cause my mirror to smell but when vinegar evaporates, the smell goes. I wouldn't recommend doing this on old mirrors or ones with porous frames, as the vinegar may cause damage.
• Shaving cream: Francis says, 'Rub a little shaving cream on your mirror and wipe it off. It leaves behind a thin, invisible layer that prevents fogging for a few days.' This hack worked like a charm for me. However, you would have to be willing to replenish the shaving cream at least twice a week, so upping your bathroom's ventilation and investing in a decent dehumidifier is, in my opinion, a better long-standing method.

FAQs

What if the condensation on my bathroom mirror keeps coming back?

According to Josh Mitchell, HVAC technician at Air Conditioner Lab, 'If you're dealing with recurring mirror condensation, it's a sign your bathroom might have high humidity levels overall. Consider using a hygrometer [digital two pack of hygrometers available at Amazon] to monitor moisture levels, aiming for a 30-50% range. Installing a dehumidifier can also help control humidity and prevent issues like mold or mildew.'

Surplus moisture in your home can cause all kinds of problems, so keeping your rooms well-ventilated and checked on is a must. If your AC vents are dripping water, that's definitely something you should look into – and fortunately there are many fixes for it.

Next, learn the four methods our writer tried to stop condensation on windows and which came out on top.