Ideally, windows should be cleaned at least twice a year, however, it’s a job that most people dread doing. Part of the problem is that most “do it yourselfers” have been taught to tackle the job with a newspaper or wads of paper towels, spray cleaner, and a lot of elbow grease. What they don’t realize is that these window cleaning strategies aren’t very effective because you basically end up just spreading dirt around, even creating a static charge on the window glass, attracting more dirt and dust. Sadly, shortly after you’ve completed the job, the windows look dirty again.
Following are some of the best tips for cleaning your windows from the professionals at Window Cleaning Fairfield.
Removing Stains
After a while, outside elements like rain running through the metal window screens and hard water runoff end up leaving stubborn mineral stains on window glass that typical washing won’t wipe off. In order to remove stains, wet the glass and gently rub at the stubborn spots using a super fine steel wool (000 would be a good choice), or use a cleansing powder like Barkeeper’s Friend (contains oxalic acid). You could also use a paste of baking soda and water for minor stains. Apply the paste to a wet towel, rub away the stain (s), rinse and squeegee clean.
Cleaning Your Windows
The best way to clean any piece of glass is to use a microfiber cloth as they work fast, deliver great results, along with a cleanser. There are also uniquely designed window clothes on the market that are designed with microfiber on one side and synthetic chamois on the other. This means that you’ll be able to use one cloth to both clean and dry the windows.
Here’s a good window cleaner recipe:
1/4 cup of vinegar
1/2 teaspoon of liquid dish detergent
2 cups of water
Put all three in a spray bottle and shake to blend. This also makes a great all-purpose cleaner.
Multipane Windows
To clean multipane windows, you need to purchase a squeegee that fits inside the panes. You’ll also need a good handheld sponge, with a natural version being the best choice because they absorb more than regular sponges. Using the recipe mentioned above, squirt a pane and rub side to side from top to bottom, making sure to get the corners. Next, wipe clean with the squeegee in a downward motion within each pane, in a single stroke. Between strokes, clean the squeegee blade using a rag to avoid streaking. If you see streaks, remove them using a chamois, drying the window sill with a clean rag.
Picture Windows
Picture windows require large tools, including a strip applicator that has a long cloth head which knocks any dirt loose and soaks up soapy water without marring the glass. Next, wipe clean with a squeegee (with an extension pole of applicable), starting at the top left, pulling the squeegee in reversion “S” pattern over the soapy pane. Wipe the blade of the squeegee clean after each movement, using a lint free rag. Remove any remaining water left on the edges of the glass with a damp chamois, soaking up any residual moisture without streaking. Dry the windowsill with a rag.
High Windows
To clean high windows you’ll need special window cleaning tools with extension poles, a ladder and safety gear – it’s not a job to take lightly. Most people hire professional Window Cleaners to clean high windows and if that includes you, you might as well have them do all your windows and save yourself the trouble.