Cleaning windows is not as easy as it may seem. It’s a somewhat tedious task that requires a lot of hard work and patience, which is why most homeowners don’t look forward to it. However, you also can’t deny the fact that dirty and grimy windows can have a significant impact on the overall appearance of your home. Since you are only supposed to clean your windows a couple of times a year, it’s better to do it properly without cutting any corners. Also, unlike what you may think, you can clean windows like a pro only using household cleaning supplies.
Wondering how to clean windows like a professional? Let’s find out.
Step-By-Step Guide on How to Clean Windows Like a Pro
Want to know the best way to clean windows without streaking? All you need to do is follow these steps to get perfectly spotless streak-free windows.
Step 1: Get rid of the dirt and dust
Step 2: Wash the window screen
Step 3: Make Your Own Window Cleaner
Step 4: Spray the Windows with Homemade Cleaner
Step 5: Replace Squeegee with a Microfiber Cloth
Let’s further discuss these steps to clean windows like a pro.
Step 1: Get rid of the dirt and dust
When it comes to cleaning windows, the first step is to get rid of the dirt and dust that has accumulated on the surface.
You can start by cleaning the windows with a vacuum cleaner using its dusting attachment. If a vacuum cleaner is not available, using a soft microfiber cloth will also do the trick.
Moreover, you can remove the curtains and either get them dry-cleaned or pop them into the dryer for a few minutes to get rid of dust particles. Similarly, if you have blinds covering your windows, you can use a dry microfiber cloth to clean each side before going over it again with a damp cloth.
Step 2: Wash the Window Screens
Window screens can get dirty really quick. The easiest way to clean them is by mixing a few drops of dishwashing liquid into warm water and putting the solution into a spray bottle. Spray this mixture on the window screens until they are completely soaked before taking a soft-bristled brush and scrubbing all the grime away.
However, before you begin, cover the floor and wall beneath the window with newspapers, old towels or plastic tarp to avoid the dirty water from damaging the surface.
In case your window screens can be easily removed and reinstalled, you can simply wash and scrub them in your bathroom before keeping them out in the sun to dry completely. This trick
Step 3: Make Your Own Window Cleaner
While there are plenty of professional window cleaning solutions available in the market, you can always make one for yourself at home using household supplies.
The main purpose of these store-bought solutions is to dissolve and suspend the dirt so it is easier to remove. However, since these products can be a little expensive and may go to waste since you won’t have much use for them afterwards, you can instead clean windows with vinegar.
These are the things you’ll need to make homemade glass cleaner:
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup white or cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup isopropyl alcohol with at least 70% concentration
If your windows are particularly grimy or haven’t been cleaned in a while, you can also add a few drops of any dishwashing detergent to the mix.
Simply mix these ingredients and transfer the solution into a spray bottle. It is one of the best things to clean windows with.
Step 4: Spray the Windows with Homemade Cleaner
Once the solution is ready, spritz it generously all over the glass panes to clean windows like a pro. If you have mixed some detergent or dishwashing liquid into your cleaning solution, you may have to repeat this step twice. However, the second time around, do not mix detergent into the solution.
Also, spray this homemade glass cleaner on both sides of your window panes, if possible.
Step 5: Replace Squeegee with a Microfiber Cloth
Most professional cleaners rely on squeegees for streak-free windows. While they can certainly help you clean windows like a pro, you can’t get a satisfactory result unless you know how to use them the right way.
Therefore, if you don’t have a squeegee at home, there’s no need to worry. Instead, you can use a microfiber cloth to make your windows look clean, shiny and completely streak-free.
On a side note, using newspapers to clean the window panes can actually scratch the glass whereas paper towels can leave lint behind on the surface.
If you can still see streaks on your windows after cleaning them, it could be because of the product buildup. That means you need to spray your homemade glass cleaner again.
Bonus Tips:
You should ideally clean the windows when it’s not too sunny. Otherwise, your cleaning solution would evaporate as soon as you spray it on the surface. Moreover, it is better to divide the job and clean windows one room at a time.
If you are cleaning both inside and outside of the window, experts recommend wiping one side of the glass pane vertically and other horizontally. This way, if any streaks appear, you’ll be able to tell if they are on the outside of the window or the inside.
That’s a wrap for our guide on how to clean windows like a pro. If you have any questions or comments about the best way to clean windows without streaking or how to make a homemade glass cleaner, feel free to send us an email on blog@zameen.com.
Meanwhile, here is a comprehensive guide on types and rates of windows in Pakistan that all homeowners will find helpful. In addition to that, don’t forget to take a look at our tips on window placement in homes.
To learn more about window maintenance, head over to Zameen Blog – the best lifestyle and property blog in Pakistan. You can also subscribe to our newsletter on the right to stay updated about the latest developments in construction and real estate industries.
