How to Clean Windows

Windows form one of the most important aspects of a house. Not only do they provide your house with proper ventilation, but also ensure adequacy of natural lighting. In fact, there must be enough windows in your house to let you get along the day, without turning on any artificial lighting. At the same time, you need to ensure that your windows are clean. In fact, they must be cleaned at least twice a year, both on the inside and outside. This is because if the windows are dirty, it will have adverse effect on the quantity as well as the quality of sunlight entering your house. In the following lines, we have provided information on the best way to clean house windows.

Cleaning House Windows

Things Needed

Soft Bristled Counter Brush
White Vinegar
Large Polyester or Sea Sponges
Squeegees with Extension Poles
Lint-free Cloth
Rubber Gloves
Straight Edged Razor Blade
Sturdy Ladder
Non-ammoniated All-purpose Cleaner

Instructions

The best time for cleaning windows is in the evening, after sunset. This is because if you clean windows that are warm or exposed to the sun, there are chances of streaks or spots coming up.
Using a soft-bristled counter brush, dust the exteriors of windows and frames to remove any cobwebs and loose dirt.
Make a vinegar-water solution by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and hot water. Wet a sponge (do not drench) and rub the dirt away from the windows. Do not use the solution on the window frames.
Start with the squeegee at the upper corner of the pane and draw it down in a straight, confident stroke. Repeat this to clean the entire window.
Use a sponge or lint-free cloth to wipe the squeegee after each stroke.
After completing the bottom of the window, use a sponge or a cloth to dry the sill.
With a cloth, dampened in a solution of non-ammoniated all-purpose cleaner and water, wipe the frames. Rinse them thoroughly, using a clean, damp cloth, to remove the solution and dry them immediately, with a clean, dry cloth.
For cleaning large windows, wash them with a method called ‘the snake’. First, pull the squeegee in a horizontal manner. Then lower it and pull it back in the opposite corner, thus forming the shape of a snake. Finally, touch up the edges with a cloth.
In case of painted windows, do not use detergents, as they are delicate and antique. Simply, dip a sponge in warm water and rub the window very gently. Dry it out with a soft, lint-free cloth. Use cotton swabs to wipe out dirt from small, delicate areas and corners.

Tips

Always clean the insides of the windows first. The outsides of the windows will dirty your tools and water faster.
Lay down an old towel underneath the windows, so as to catch the drops while cleaning the insides of the windows.
In case you are using a ladder to clean the high windows, use it safely and try not to overreach.
Cloths washed or treated with fabric softener should not be used, as they will cause streaks on the glass.
Never use ammonia, ammonia-based cleaners or vinegar and water solutions to clean leaded, stained or painted glass windows, as they can discolor and damage the glass.

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