Ok, this is quite a specific fear but with more and more of us staying in private accommodation sourced over the internet, holidaymakers are being urged to familiarise themselves with the tell-tale signs of two-way mirrors in hotels and B&Bs, creepy right?
Those heading away during the Spring and staying in B&Bs are being encouraged to check for two-way mirrors upon arriving.
Glass and mirror experts are encouraging holidaymakers to use the fingernail test to see if a mirror is two-way or not.
Other methods include tapping the glass for a hollow noise and shining a flashlight onto the surface.
The experts at MeandMyGlass.co.uk have shared five tests that will reveal if a mirror is two-way. John Cutts, founder said: “The thought of someone using a mirror to spy on guests is disturbing, to say the least. The good news is there are multiple ways you can check for a two-way mirror when staying in a hotel, motel or B&B.
“The most common method is the fingernail test but you should also try shining a flashlight onto the mirror. On a normal mirror, the light should bounce back in the reflection, if the mirror is two-way you’ll be able to see straight through.”
Here are five ways to identify two-way mirrors:
- The fingernail test
Place your fingernail onto the mirror, if there is no gap in between your finger and its reflection, it could indicate a two-way mirror. On a regular mirror, there will be a gap between your fingernail and its reflection.
- The tap test
Noise is a huge factor in identifying whether a mirror is two-way. Give the glass a tap around all four corners and in the centre. If it makes a hollow sound, there’s a high possibility there’s something on the other side.
- Use a phone flashlight
When you stand and face a mirror, shine a flashlight on the glass and see if the light reflects back at you. If it doesn’t bounce back, then the light will shine through on a two-way mirror to reveal what’s behind the glass.
- Look at the installation
If the mirror is hanging then it is very unlikely it is a two-way mirror. Two-way mirrors tend to be part of and set into the wall as opposed to just hanging on it.
- Closely check the reflection
Place your face against the mirror with your hands beside your head, blocking out any light. If the mirror is two-way, you may be able to see straight through.
