A Quick Guide To Cleaning Windows Effectively
Oh, is it that time to clean windows?
Over time your windows collect dust and grime. Dirty windows obstruct your view and block sunlight. The worst part? You can see the streaks left behind by the improper cleaning.
Windows are often the forgotten part when it comes to cleaning. Not only is it tedious to clean but sometimes you get exhausted after cleaning for a couple of hours.
But a window that’s clean results in a brighter facility or home and we can all benefit from vitamin D. You don’t have to wash your windows every day, but if you’re already in the zone, you might as well clean the windows too (and to get it out of the way).
Not sure where to start? We’ll give you a quick guide to cleaning windows effectively.
Step 1: Clean on A Cloudy Day
If it’s too bright outside then the soap and water dries quickly, which will leave smears on the dry window. The point of cleaning a window is to leave it streakless and smudge-free. If the weather’s not cooperating with you, then start on the shady side of the house.
Step 2: Remove Dirt and Dust First
Before getting into the nitty gritty, sweep the dirt from the window frame or vacuum (use the dusting attachment). You can also use a microfiber duster if you have one. Removing the dirt first prevents it from turning into a muddy mess when it gets mixed with a cleaner.
If your window screen looks very grimy, pop the window out, wash with hot, sudsy water and a soft brush. After, rinse it out and let it dry before attaching it back.
Don’t forget to dust your shades and blinds! They also collect dust and debris. Use a microfiber duster, open the slats and go over each of them with a damp cloth and then a dried one.
Step 3: Pick the Right Cleaner and Spray Generously
If you have a glass cleaner, spray and don’t hold back, especially if your windows look extremely dirty. You need an ample amount of cleaner to dissolve and suspend the dirt. This is so you can completely wipe the dust and if you skimp on it, you’re going to start seeing streaks.
If you don’t have a glass cleaner, you can always make your own and here’s how:
- 2 cups of water
- ½ cup of white or cider vinegar
- ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol or concentrate
Combine these ingredients and pour them into a spray bottle. Label the bottle if you have children or pets for their safety.
Step 4: Use a Microfiber Cloth
If you like to use newspaper to dry the window panes, switch to a microfiber cloth. They’re absorbent, washable and leave the glass shiny and streak-free. Not to mention, they’re reusable.
The microfiber cloth will grab all the water spots, smudges and dirt from the glass without scratching it. If you’d rather not use microfiber cloths, you can opt for a paper towel. Choose a brand that’s up to the task when wet. A weak paper towel can shred and leave lint behind.
Step 5: You Can Skip the Squeegee
Professional window cleaners use squeegees, but they’re trained to know how to use them the right way. Additionally, where does all the water from the squeegee go? On the floor.
Because of the potential mess and drip factor, avoid using squeegees, especially if you have smaller windows. If you have a bigger window, a squeegee may help, but don’t forget about the water that the squeegee collects.
If you do decide to use the squeegee, periodically wipe your squeegee. After every few swipes, wipe your squeegee blade with a dry and clean towel. This simple move reduces the chances of anything dripping and leaving unattractive streaks once your windows dry.
Step 6: Break It Down
You only have to clean your window once or twice a year. That doesn’t mean you have to clean every window in your facility or home in one day. Divide the job and clean room by room.
When you’re cleaning, wipe one side of the window horizontally and the other vertically. If you see any streaks forming you’ll know whether it’s on the inside or outside.
How to remove hard water stains
If your windows have hard water stains, they can look unattractive. Additionally, hard water stains are extremely difficult to remove by hand. Grab a dish soap, vinegar, lemon juice and a spray bottle.
Add one part dish soap and one part lemon juice to the bottle. Then fill half of your spray bottle with vinegar. Mix it up, spray the stains and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes. Grab a brush and scrub at the stains to lift them.
Cleaning in general is a tedious process and job. It can take up to a few hours to get your facility looking spotless and dustless. The same applies to windows. It’s a big process to take on, but the end result of a clean window will leave the interior and exterior of your facility spotless and create a brighter space.
Just follow these quick steps and you’re on your way to getting a streak-free, smudge-fee and grime-free window.
