How to Window Wash With Cornstarch

Clean glass windows allow more natural light into rooms.

Dirty windows detract from even the most beautiful homes' aesthetic appeal. Glass windows inevitably accumulate dust, pollen and insect droppings, which are undoubtedly unsightly. Residue in rain also becomes attached to windows, covering glass with dirty splotches and streaks. Washing windows with a homemade cornstarch solution removes grime from glass, making it clear and shiny. Unlike most store-bought window cleaners, cornstarch is organic and therefore contains no toxic chemicals. Regularly wash windows with cornstarch using certain techniques.

Things You'll Need

• Plush towels
• 2 1-gallon buckets
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Spoon
• Clean sponge or lint-free cloth
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Cover the window's ledge with plush towels to protect it from moisture damage.

2. Fill a 1-gallon bucket with 1 qt. of water. Thoroughly dissolve 1/4 cup of cornstarch in the water. Mix the cornstarch solution with a spoon.

3. Prepare another 1-gallon bucket with 1 qt. of plain water.

4. Immerse a clean sponge or lint-free cloth in the cornstarch solution. Wring out the sponge or cloth thoroughly.

5. Wipe the damp sponge or cloth across the window from left to right. Start at the top of the window and work toward the bottom. Frequently rinse the sponge or cloth in the plain water, and stir the cornstarch solution regularly.

6. Dry the glass thoroughly with clean paper towels. Wipe the paper towels across the damp window from left to right, working toward the bottom. Replace the paper towels as soon as they become wet to prevent streaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Substitute newspaper for paper towels.

• Washing windows in bright, sunny weather may cause streaks on glass.

References

• Hodgson Mill: Corn Starch Tricks
• Professor's House: Washing Windows
• Eco Living Experts: Best Organic Cleaning Products: Buy Green or Make Your Own Cleaners