How to Clean Plate Glass

Clean plate glass for aesthetic appeal.

Plate glass provides functionality and aesthetic appeal to architectural structures and automobiles. Windows, windshields, and other structures are composed of this sheet glass. Like other types of glass, plate glass accumulates oily smears, fingerprint smudges, dust and grime, which cause it to appear dull and dingy over time. Since dirty plate glass is unpleasant to look at or see through, properly clean it to restore transparency and gleam. Fortunately, basic cleaning solutions can effectively clean plate glass.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup isopropyl alcohol
• 1 cup water
• 1 tbsp. white vinegar
• Spray bottle
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol, 1 cup of water, and 1 tbsp. of white vinegar into a spray bottle. Mix the solution thoroughly.

2. Spray the solution onto the glass until the surface is covered with a heavy mist. Do not apply so much solution that it drips down the glass.

3. Using horizontal strokes, wipe the glass with paper towels. Start at the top of the glass and work toward the bottom. Use clean paper towels to prevent reapplying dirt to the glass.

4. Clean the other side of the plate glass. Follow the same techniques, except use vertical strokes when wiping the glass to make missed streaks more obvious.

5. Inspect both sides of the glass for remaining streaks. Wipe away the streaks with paper towels.

Tips & Warnings

• You can substitute clear ammonia for the white vinegar.

• You can substitute newspapers or microfiber rags for the paper towels.

• Do not drip the solution onto nearby painted or varnished wood windowsills or frames; they may become damaged.

• Do not wash windows in direct sunlight to prevent the solution from drying too quickly and forming streaks on the glass.

References

• University of Houston: Window Glass
• Michigan State University Extension: Window Glass -- Cleaning
• Good Housekeeping: Quick Window-Cleaning Tips
• Mrs. Clean USA: Make Your Own Glass & Window Cleaner