Cleaning windows is such a chore that a common saying about busy people who work hard is that they will do everything except windows. However, there are tricks to cleaning windows that do not leave streaks or dirty corners. Here are four tips for crystal clear, spot-free windows at your home.
Finish Each Side with a Different Buffing Stroke
It is annoying to spot a streak on a window. It is even more annoying to try and figure out what side of the glass it is on. Whether you are cleaning door windows or tilt-in windows, let your finish buffing be different for the inside and the outside of the glass. The tip comes from professional automotive detailer Scott Race. Buff vertically on one side and horizontally on the other. Maintain that pattern on all windows, and you will be able to tell what side the streaks are on by whether they are vertical or horizontal streaks.
Pro Window Cleaning
This service is worth the money for many homeowners and most businesses. You will likely be surprised at the affordability. Professional window cleaners work every day cleaning the windows of many clients. They show up, get the job done in a very short period of time, keep out of the way to not interrupt routines, and leave your windows streak-free with the corners cleaned too. The results that professional window cleaners attain are by using the proper tools and having the experience of cleaning thousands of windows every week. You can choose to have just the outside glass done or both sides.
White Vinegar and Distilled Water
White vinegar is acidic and cuts through greasy films that form on windows, both inside and out. Using distilled water for a 50/50 dilution means that no minerals from the water will be left behind. Some companies, like A-Plus Window Cleaning, know that regular drinking water contains minerals that leave behind those dreaded hard water spots. Distilled water is regular water that has been boiled with the demineralized steam evaporated back into water. The demineralization is why it is also used in steam irons and vaporizers. It prevents mineral buildup on the heating elements. If you are seeing white spots after cleaning windows, it is likely minerals in the cleaner.
The Soapy Bath
If the exterior sides of your windows have not been cleaned for some time, you likely need to wash down the entire window, including the frame and sill. If not, the next rain will just wash dirt down over the glass. The same goes for exterior wall surfaces. Perhaps the entire structure could use a thorough exterior wash-down before cleaning the windows. When it comes time to clean the glass, use a bucket of water with a tiny amount of premium degreasing dishwashing liquid with no hand softeners or extra ingredients along with a window scrubber and squeegee. It is simple, but after lots of practice, it will be your go-to method for cleaning your windows at home.
Additionally, your window cleaning tools may be part of the problem. Avoid paper towels as they often can leave behind lint or an oily residue that is likely a glue or chemical used in making them. Use newspaper instead. The ink will get on your hands, but newspapers can really shine glass. Avoid using any towels washed or dried with fabric softeners. Instead, buy new microfiber cloths for window cleaning that you wash separately.
