How to Get Streak-Free Windows

It is very frustrating to clean a window, take a step back and see lots of streaks that were previously invisible. This method for cleaning windows uses inexpensive, basic household products and should result in clean, streak-free windows. The secret is to not spray too much cleaning solution and to work on one area at a time, rather than wiping the whole window all at once.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bucket
• Dishwashing liquid
• Sponge
• Spray bottle
• White vinegar
• Water
• Rubber gloves
• Newspaper

1. Fill the bucket with warm water and a squirt of dishwashing liquid. Soak the sponge in the soapy water, and wash the windows on both sides to remove all the visible dirt and debris. Rinse the sponge often in the water as you work. It doesn't matter if the windows are streaky at this point.

2. Make a cleaning solution of 50 percent white vinegar and 50 percent cold water in the spray bottle.

3. Put on the rubber gloves, and scrunch up a sheet of old newspaper.

4. When the windows are dry, clean them with the scrunched up newspaper and vinegar-water solution. Only spray the solution on a small area at a time, and wipe it away as you work, rather than spraying and wiping the whole window.

5. Replace the sheets of newspaper often as they soak up the liquid. It is better to work with dry sheets of paper as they are much more absorbent than damp paper. Repeat on the other side of the window.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the windows in the early morning when it is cooler. When the windows have been warmed by the sun, the cleaning solution will dry more quickly and leave more streaks.

References

• Cleaning Uses for Vinegar