About Cleaning Windows

Cleaning windows can be an arduous task. Most housekeepers will tell you that they don't do windows. There's a reason for that. It's hard work and sometimes the result is not pleasing. You clean the window and then the sun comes out and all you see are streaks. You clean the window again, and you still see streaks. There is a way to avoid leftover residue. Cleaning windows requires the right type of day, the right cleaner and the right tools.

Significance

The importance of cleaning windows correctly is twofold. You want to be able to see out of them, and you don't want to build up residue that will make cleaning more difficult each time. Using commercial cleaners may cause residue. Home recipes work better because they are able to cut through the buildup. Home recipes are less expensive, less toxic, and are simple to make.

Identification

One of the best home recipes is: 2 T. of ammonia or ( 3 T. of vinegar or lemon juice), 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol, and 1/4 tsp. of dishwasher detergent. Mix these ingredients in a spray bottle and fill with water. Shake the mixture.

With the home recipe, you will need a clean rubber-blade squeegee, a sponge, a bucket of water, old T-shirts or diapers, and either a rag or a paper towel to wipe the squeegee.

Prevention/Solution

Spray the window cleaner on the glass, starting at the top. Use a clean sponge to loosen the dirt. Rinse the sponge in the bucket of water, as needed. Use the squeegee from top to bottom and then from side to side. After each swipe, dip the squeegee in your bucket of water and wipe clean with the paper towel or rag. Once the window is clean, polish it with the old T-shirt or diaper.

Considerations

Wash windows on cloudy days, so the water residue does not dry in the sun. Always start from the top and work down. If you find scratches on the window, use toothpaste to fill in the marks. On small windows, instead of using a squeegee, use sponges. Have one person wash the inside of the window while one is on the outside. Wash one side horizontally and the other side vertically. This will tell you what side the streaks are on, so you can effectively wash the window again. Try rubbing the window with a new chalkboard eraser for a high polished look.

Benefits

Wash windows at least twice a year to keep residue from building up. The home recipe works well because it will cut through any residue left from commercial cleaners. Rubbing alcohol dries quickly to stop streaking, and ammonia, vinegar or lemon juice help cut through residue; dishwashing detergent loosens film. Windows that are clean inside and outside improve the look of a house more than you think. This is important if you are considering selling your home.

Resources

• How to Clean Windows