Why Do You Have to Use Lintless Rags to Wash Windows?

Few tasks are as potentially frustrating as window cleaning. Good tools are essential, as well as proper technique. Washing your windows with a lint-producing rag only defeats the purpose, leaving the windows with unsightly specks and streaks of dirty lint. Using good lint-free cloths is an important step in leaving your windows with a clear shine. Many varieties of lint-free rags are available today for the consumer and professional alike.

Considerations

Cleaning windows is a difficult task compared to most cleaning chores. The object to be cleaned is two-dimensional, the back clearly visible from the front. Any remaining specks will be highlighted when the sun or a bright light shines through, so a more-than-average level of dirt and grime removal is needed. Streaks and spots are common and frustrating to deal with. Adding lint specks to the mix is unsightly and easily avoided.

Features

A good lint-free cloth has a tight weave with no frayed edges, while still retaining good moisture absorbency. To test a rag for lint, try wiping a mirror with it. An excellent choice a microfiber cloth. They blend tough cleaning power with lint-free performance and good ability to hold moisture.

Types

Microfiber cleaning rags are becoming the most common material for almost any cleaning job and are the standard for lint-free window cleaning. These can be obtained easily and cheaply and have a long life. They are virtually lint free, absorb moisture and clean well, and can be found at most large hardware and variety stores. Cloth diapers are another option. If you know of someone who once used these for their infants and still has a supply around, ask for a few for your window cleaning chores. They are lint free and long lasting, though bulky and hard to handle.

Technique

Lint-free rags are used in the final stages of window cleaning to remove any streaks left by the squeegee and to detail edges. Clean the window first with warm water with a squirt of dish soap, using a microfiber window scrubber or sponge. Squeegee off the water, being careful to overlap your strokes. Use the lint-free cloths to remove any streaks, spots or dirty edges. Check the window from different angles to catch any remaining spots. Remove the smudges using the lint-free rag.

Misconceptions

T-shirts, old linen tablecloths, and bedsheets are said to be good lint-free material. These may have less lint than the average bath towel, and are usually too thin and frayed to be an efficient tool in window cleaning but can be used in a pinch.

Expert Insight

Make sure to machine dry your microfiber window cleaning rags with a sheet of fabric softener. This will prevent them from bunching together and keep them easy to use. Be sure you rinse all detergent from the rags before using. A second rinse is advisable on microfiber rags if they have been used or washed with a harsh detergent.

References

• Window Cleaning Supplies

Resources

• How to Clean Windows In Your Home Like An Expert