Having spotless windows is a goal of many people, and it doesn’t matter how old or new your windows are. Clean windows go a long way in ensuring that natural light can efficiently get into your home. Everyone seems to have a different method of how they clean windows and the best way to clean windows can be different depending on who you ask.
What Steps Are Involved In Cleaning Your Windows While Preventing Streaks?
You’ll typically want to stay away from cleaners that include alcohol and ammonia in the product. It might appear that they’ll be able to clean your windows more effectively, but they tend to cause streaks all over your windows, and those streaks will cause dust to get stuck on the streaks.
If there is a more difficult area of your window that requires cleaning, you can try using a product such as rubbing alcohol or acetone to help you with it. After you’ve applied the solvent, give it a good wipe and then dry it out.
Sometimes people get impatient with their windows when certain things get stuck on them. You’ll never want to use a razor on your windows. This can lead to scratches that are extremely difficult to get out. You’ll want to just use a delicate, lint-free wiper as you’re using rubbing alcohol or acetone. To prevent any streaking, rub from a couple of different directions. If you still see streaking all over your windows after you’re finished cleaning them, get some water and rinse them out.
What Cleaning Solutions Should I Use?
It’s best to use a cleaner that you can fully trust on your windows. Before using any cleaner, it’s best to do some research into it. Take a look at the reviews and see what other people have to say about it.
Cleaning Windows With Vinegar
Many people like to use a homemade window washing solution when cleaning windows, and you can even make your own right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
All you need to make your own cleaning solution is distilled vinegar. You’ll be able to find this product no matter where you go. It’s an acid-based product that is efficient at breaking down the film that collects on windows. There are a couple of steps you’ll want to follow to clean your windows with a homemade vinegar solution:
- Combine one part vinegar to 10 parts of lukewarm water into a spray bottle
- Get a lint-free cloth and start to wipe down your windows gently, getting rid of any dust and debris
- Spray the solution on your windows
- Get your lint-free cloth again and start to rub the mixture on the windows, focusing on the spots that have residue on them
- If you still notice more spots after washing the window, spray some more on it and beginning rubbing the window with the cloth again
- Try to refrain from getting the vinegar/water solution on the window frames because it could potentially result in discoloration
- Get a dry cloth and start to dry your windows as good as you can
- Dry the windows right after you’re done cleaning them so no streaking occurs
- Do your windows one at a time for the best results
- If you still notice streaks, rinse the windows with water
Cleaning Big Windows With Vinegar
- Sometimes big windows are a little trickier to clean using a small spray bottle. If this is the case, you’ll want to get a spray bottle that has a vinegar solution in it that is a little more diluted
- Get a sponge, dip it into the solution, and start cleaning your window
- If you have a squeegee, you can use that to wipe the windows from top to bottom. To prevent drippage from occurring, clean the edge of the squeegee after you’re done each wipe
Everyone wants to have windows that are crystal-clear to look through. After you’re done cleaning one window, you can move onto the next one. Taking care of your windows routinely is a great way in ensuring they’ll be functional and spotless for the foreseeable future. The next time you wash your windows, keep these window cleaning tips in mind for better results.