Why Clean Windows Matter
Keeping your windows clean is important for several reasons. Clean windows allow more natural sunlight to enter your home, creating a brighter interior environment. Dirt, grime, and debris on windows can also make your home seem dingy and unkempt from the outside. Washing windows regularly helps maintain your home’s curb appeal.
Additionally, clean windows are better for your health. Dust, pollen, pollution particles, and other allergens stick to dirty windows and eventually get circulated indoors. This can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms. Washing windows helps remove these allergens.
Safety Tips for Washing Windows
Washing windows can be a risky chore, especially if you have tall, hard-to-reach windows. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
-
Use a sturdy ladder and place it on level, firm ground. Have someone spot you when using a ladder to prevent falls.
-
Never lean too far out an open window. Standing on the window sill is dangerous.
-
Wear shoes with rubber soles for traction on ladders. Leather soles can be slippery.
-
When washing outdoor windows on upper floors, close the windows behind you as you go to avoid falling through an open window.
-
Draw curtains and blinds to prevent glass breakage indoors.
-
Use care when raising, lowering, or tilting heavy window washing poles. Do not overextend arms.
Supplies for Squeaky Clean Windows
Having the right supplies makes washing windows faster and easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
-
Window washing squeegee – cleans without leaving streaks
-
Microfiber cloths – lint-free and absorbent
-
Extendable window washing poles for hard-to-reach windows
-
Spray bottles filled with cleaning solution
-
Ladder or step stool for safely accessing high windows
-
Bucket to hold cleaning solution
-
Robust paper towels for drying window frames
Homemade Window Cleaning Solutions
You can buy commercial window cleaners, but it’s also easy and inexpensive to make your own effective solutions at home. Here are some recipes to try:
Vinegar-Based Cleaner
- 1 cup water
- 1⁄4 cup white vinegar – cuts through grime
- 1-2 tbsp dish soap – helps lift dirt
Rubbing Alcohol Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1⁄4 cup rubbing alcohol – evaporation prevents streaks
- Few drops dish soap
Natural Cleaner
- 2 cups water
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar
- 1-2 tsp clear ammonia – removes tough stains
- 15 drops essential oils like lemon or eucalyptus for fresh scent
Always use clean microfiber cloths and change washing and drying cloths frequently for best results.
Tips for Washing Windows
Follow these tips for getting windows squeaky clean:
-
Work in the shade – direct sunlight causes cleaning solution to dry too fast and streak.
-
Start at top and work down – this allows gravity to help rinse cleaner off glass.
-
Apply cleaning solution liberally and wipe in “S” motions with microfiber cloth.
-
Use firm pressure and overlap strokes. This lifts dirt effectively.
-
Rinse frequently with spray bottle of water to prevent grit buildup on glass.
-
Dry with horizontal strokes followed by vertical strokes. Overlap drying rows.
-
For window frames, use robust paper towels dampened with cleaning solution.
-
Change washing and drying cloths often – dirty cloths equal dirty windows!
With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve sparkling clear windows and beautiful views outside. What are your best tips for washing windows? Let me know in the comments!
