Windows delight us with their sunny vistas we can enjoy from our air-conditioned interior in the heat of the summer. But when they cloud up with grime, pollution, or streaks from improper cleaning, it can hinder our enjoyment of them, whether the windows are new or old.
Read on to learn how to keep your home’s windows clean, clear, and streak free so you can appreciate them to their fullest.
Window Cleaning 101
Pick a cloudy day to clean your windows
If the only day you have available to clean windows is a sunny one, then start on the shady side of your house. If you clean windows in the sun, your cleaner can dry on your glass and create streaks.
Deal with the dirt before applying your cleaner
If dirt is caked onto your windows, use a handheld vacuum to remove as much grime as possible before applying your window cleaner.
Soap up window screens for a clearer view
Wash your window screens with hot sudsy water and a soft bristle brush. Rinse them well and dry them before returning them to your window frame.
Use window cleaner generously
Get streak-free window glass by using the right window cleaner—and lots of it! Particularly if your windows are super dirty, let the cleaner do the grunt work so you can wipe them clear with ease. Here are some top picks: Invisible Glass Cleaner, Windex, or homemade window cleaner.
Make your own non-toxic window cleaner
Vinegar’s acidic composition helps break down the streaky film that can accumulate on windows. To make your own cleaner, combine two cups of distilled water with ½ cup of white vinegar, and ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol. Some people exchange rubbing alcohol for a little dish soap. Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Use straight vinegar to spot-wash any stubborn stains. Avoid getting cleaning solutions on wood, fiberglass, or vinyl frames as it could discolor your finish.
Use a microfiber cloth to wipe your windows clean
Absorbent and washable microfiber cloths create streak-free glass you will love! If you do not have a microfiber cloth, use a sturdy paper towel.
Use a second clean cloth to dry your windows
Promptly after cleaning each window, wipe it dry with a fresh cloth before beginning the next window.
Create a pattern when you wipe your windows
You will know where streaks are if you clean all your windows inside by wiping them vertically and clean your windows outside by wiping them horizontally. If streaks show up, you will instantly know which side of the glass they are on, and you can tackle them promptly.
If you have removable storm windows, take them off
Pop storm windows out and clean them separately before repositioning them where they go.
Realize you do not have to clean every window in one day
There are a lot of windows in your house, so break up the task and do a set number of them each day for a few days.
Skip the temptation to use a razor blade on stubborn stains
Do not use any kind of sharp object to “clean” your windows. Blades can cause permanent scratches and make your glass panes more prone to breaking in the future.
Do not underestimate the power of pure water
If you finish cleaning your windows and they are not yet streak free, try using some clean water and a microfiber cloth to remove any cleaning solution that may be lingering.
For large picture windows, use a bucket of cleaning solution
If you have floor-to-ceiling windows and need a quicker way to clean them, simply create your own cleaning solution in a bucket. Use one part vinegar and ten parts water. Dip a sponge in your bucket and wipe your windows with it. Dry with a squeegee (from top to bottom) or a microfiber cloth.
Stunning New Windows for Your Twin Cities Home
When windows age, they become damaged, deteriorate, cloud up, and can be hard to open and close. If there is no hope for your current windows, replacement windows are a great option.
At Beissel Window & Siding, we are a Marvin Windows Authorized Replacement Contractor. You will love our detailed installations and the high performance stunning new windows deliver.
Considering window replacements? Take a look at a video gallery of our recent renovation projects.
