Have you ever sat down in front of a clear window with a hot cup of coffee and surprise yourself with how dirty it is?
You hesitate and think: “Should I clean this right away?” Then you wonder if there’s cleaning spray in the cabinet under the sink. And, “Is it any good?”
By that time your coffee is already cold, and the windows are still dirty. O.K, so we know you don’t necessarily like to clean windows, but who doesn’t like the final touches of a truly washed window glass?
We’re sure you do. Keep reading below to learn about those forgotten but impressive window cleaning tips you didn’t know you needed.
Let It Shine!
Did you know that windows should be washed twice a year? It may sound unnecessary. Two times isn’t a lot of time, in cleaning years if you know what I mean. But, once you get to it the method may not be the best for your windows.
Most people use wadded-up paper towels and spray cleaner. And what you’re essentially doing is moving dirt from one spot to another, on top of putting a static charge on the glass.
This attracts dust and dirt so when you finish the window looks dirty again. So to get clear results, you have to substitute those paper towels. In fact, you may even want to get rid of your spray cleaner and use distilled vinegar instead.
Window Cleaning Tips
The basics of window-washing are easy to follow through.
- We previously discussed the need to through away the paper towels and invest in a sponge and a squeegee. The latter gets your glass clear and streak free in less time than paper towels.
- It’s important to keep your squeegee fitted with a sharp rubber blade and change them every day you use them. If the edge of the blade becomes nicked, sliced or rounded you won’t be able to do a good job. Don’t hesitate to replace the blade if it isn’t performing well. For a cleaning solution, a squirt of dishwashing liquid in a bucket of warm water will do the trick.
- If you don’t find the need to buy a squeegee because your windows aren’t too big, go ahead and use a sponge. But instead of using dishwashing liquid use distilled vinegar instead. All you have to do it mix one part water to one part vinegar in a small bucket. Moisten the window and then clean.
- Here’s another trick that isn’t too obvious. Don’t wash your windows on sunny days. Whatever cleaning solution you’re using will dry too quickly due to the warmth in the windowpanes. This will result in visible streaks. So pick a gloomy day to tackle the task-overcast days are good choices.
- Now, before you go back and reach that handy roll of paper towels to dry your window glass, stop. Paper towels can leave behind lint. A more gentle option that can leave your windows sparkling is microfiber cloths. Coffee filters and a reused often-washed t-shirt can also dry window glass, giving it a streak-free finish.
Leave It Squeaky Clean
Think about all the window cleaning tips you picked up on reading this article. If you follow through with them you’ll save yourself the stress of window cleaning.
And sitting down with that cup of coffee in the morning looking through the window will be as pleasurable as getting the final spot off the glass.
Are you looking to keep other parts of your house clean too? Check out our blog posts for more useful tips!