The ABC of window cleaning: follow these tips to thoroughly clean windows and fixtures

by Mark Bennett

April 05, 2022

The ABC of window cleaning: follow these tips to thoroughly clean windows and fixtures
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Every time we enter a clean and tidy room, but with the windows dirty due to spots and stains left by the drops of rain (and other things), it ruins our full appreciation of the general cleanliness of the room. On the other hand, when the window's glass is perfectly crystal clear and they are also well polished, then the sunlight enters easier and the external landscape is seen as clear and colorful, and everything generally seems much cleaner.

When it comes to cleaning glass and windows, then, how do we do it in a way that ensures the best results. Here are some tips to achieve crystal-clear and clean windows:

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What products to use for cleaning windows?

  • Water is better when it is lukewarm: if it is too hot it evaporates too quickly, but if it is lukewarm it will have a temperature that is still able to dissolve away the dirt better without evaporating too rapidly.
  • Alcohol: it is the preferred substance that leave practically no stains or streaks
  • White vinegar: use it if you need to clean off more than dirt or dust - for example you may need to remove limescale stains. Just add the vinegar to the water - a glass in a bucket is fine but you can also increase the dose.
  • Dishwashing detergent: a few drops added to the water if there are heavier deposits of dirt. For the fixtures and fittings in and around a window, water with a little dish detergent or Marseille soap is generally used.

The most popular DIY tips:

  • A newspaper: it's better to use the squeegees these days. Newspapers worked great on alcohol, but the type of ink used for modern newspapers can leave streaks.
  • Do not wash glass on which the sun is shining directly (wait until later): This tip is true. It will dry out the products immediately, and will therefore leave visible streaks, especially if used on window frames.
  • Add a few drops of glycerin: this can help keep the windows cleaner for longer!
  • Nylon tights: they can be used, but are only really useful after washing, to make residual marks, streaks or dust disappear.
  • Black tea: this is excellent for degreasing dirt due to its tannins, but be careful not to stain the windows!

How to wash windows:

  • Protect the floor with old rags, especially if you have carpet or parquet on the floor.
  • Start with the fixtures and handles first, dusting and removing any cobwebs and then washing them with soapy water.
  • Use fresh soap and water (or other remedies you prefer - like those above) with a clean sponge on the glass, moving from top to bottom systematically.
  • If you have to deal with tough corners and stains, have suede or microfiber cloths ready for this job.
  • Remove everything from the glass with the squeegee, from top to bottom, wiping it off every now and then with a clean rag.
  • Again, suede or microfiber cloths can help finish the job.

What's your favorite window washing tip?

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