How to Clean Windows

Sparkling windows are often the finishing touch to a clean, comfortable and inviting home. Although clean windows can be achieved through the use of many store-bought chemical products, the same results can be achieved using two environmentally friendly and common household products: vinegar and newspapers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• White vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Newspaper
• Chalkboard eraser

1. Wait until nighttime. Cleaning warm windows or windows exposed to the sun may result in unexpected streaks or spots after the cleaning.

2. Find black and white printed newspaper.

3. Fill a spray bottle with 1 part white vinegar and 3 parts clean, cool water.

4. Add several drops of liquid dish detergent into the solution if you've never used a vinegar solution on your windows. The detergent helps remove the residue of chemical products previously used on the glass.

5. Spray the vinegar solution onto the windows.

6. Drench a crumpled newspaper page with the solution.

7. Wipe down the window with the newspaper.

8. Get a dry piece of crumpled newspaper when the solution is almost completely wiped away and finish wiping the glass. Finishing with a new piece of dry newspaper helps prevent streaks.

9. Go over the windows with a new, dry chalkboard eraser after you have cleaned them to get an extra fine shine.

Tips & Warnings

• Repeat the cleaning process regularly. Make the solution without the liquid dish detergent in subsequent cleanings.
• Spray the vinegar solution on car windows and windshields and wipe them down during winter months to prevent ice formation.

[GilinAtlanta]

on 12/22/2008 Newspaper is good for something besides recycling. Watch for my article on another window cleaning tip.