Unclean windows curbs the appearance of your house. However, cleaning windows is not a simple task. Ideally, hiring professional window cleaners is the right solution, with every one living a fast-paced life. But if you want to try it once, giving your windows that clear finish is something you might battle initially.
Sometimes that filmy residue will bother you, while a few other times it would be chalky streaks that will disrupt your peace. To help you avoid such situations, here are some of the popular DIY cleaning recipes that would leave your windows with a streak-free shine.
Image by ErikaWittlieb
A Mildly Acidic White Vinegar Can be a Great Help
It is one of the most popular window cleaning solutions that one can easily find. It helps clean the windows by dissolving the bonds between glass and city grime or bird droppings or dead bugs.
You can find the solution at any store nearby. Try not to use Apple cider vinegar, though, as it contains pectin, which causes streaks. So, use the version of white vinegar that has 5% acidity only. You can make the solution by adding 50% white vinegar and the other 50% with tap water in a spray bottle, and you are good to go.
A Little Soap Can do The Trick
Living in a city is not an easy task. And adding to that, the city grime makes it even more challenging to keep your home clean for long periods. So, if I ask, “can you clean windows with just water?,” the answer would be a big “No.” Why? It’s because using water alone will make the mess cling even more.
It will be even harder to clean these spots from your window. So, cleaning experts advise using soap that attracts dirt particles and holds them tightly. That way, you can quickly get rid of the city grime. Keep in mind that using excess soap water can also result in streak marks. So, use the solution cautiously.
Take Help From The Surgical Spirits
Wait!! What are you saying? I am sure many of you must be thinking something like this now. But, I am talking about rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) popularly known as “surgical spirits” in the UK. However, in the USA, you can find this in the grocery or drug stores in the first-aid section.
The best part of using this solution is that it evaporates quickly without leaving any streaks behind. You can use anything between a 70% to 90% solution.
Experts suggest using 70% rubbing alcohol in your recipe as the higher percentage of alcohol means faster evaporation rates. With a 90% option, you will have to work on a lightning speed to avoid streaks on your windows.
Factors to Consider While Cleaning Windows
- Ideally, it’s better to clean windows on a non-windy day with an overcast.
- Move your hand in one direction per side while cleaning windows.
- After applying the cleaning recipe, use a squeegee to dry quickly.
- Skip any paper products on wet windows.
To Sum it Up
If you are a homeowner who wants to keep up on window cleaning by yourself, you must understand that you must have all the right tools by your side to get the job done. For instance, you require a bucket, cleaning solution, washer, squeegee, and towel to get things done correctly.
Also, it might get mundane after some time. So, you might skip cleaning windows after a while. Therefore, to avoid settling dust on your windows, it would be better to hire someone who can deep clean your windows once in a while for long-lasting effects.
