First of all, you need vinegar, water, and dish soap to make your own window cleaner. Clean, streak-free windows will result from this method. Using a cotton cloth, clean the window frames and glass. Then, dry the glass with a lint-free cloth after washing it. Clear the screens and blinds of dust. It’s best to do it twice a year to get best results.
This tutorial will show you how to clean windows streak-free. Besides, you’ll find everything there, from the best cleaners to the best tools.
So, move on, please!
How to Clean Windows Streak-Free: 9 Easy Steps!
Although it may not be the most attractive task around the house, cleaning windows is crucial to keeping a tidy and welcoming home. A clean window allows more light to enter, enhances the view, and may even extend its life.
So, you can get streak-free, gleaming windows by following these steps.
Step-1: Make a Homemade Window Cleaning Solution First
The best way to guarantee streak-free windows is to make your own window wash solution. Here’s how to make a powerful cleaner from everyday items:
- Gather dish soap, rubbing alcohol, aromatic oils, and distilled white vinegar.
- Put one part of distilled vinegar in a spray container and ten parts of warm water in another.
- Rubbing alcohol should be applied to a cloth and applied to troubled places. You can choose to add rubbing alcohol to the vinegar mixture.
- Add Dish Soap To address tough dirt. You can use dish soap on external windows, particularly on the outside.
- Add a drop or two of essential oils, such as lemon, for a light perfume to cover up the smell of vinegar.
- To avoid streaks and the attraction of dust and moisture, stay away from cleaners that contain a lot of alcohol or ammonia.
WARNING: Clear cleaners that include alcohol or ammonia since they might leave streaks and add extra moisture and dust.
Step 2: Get Your Windows Ready
Preparation is critical to avoiding streaks. Follow these steps to prep your windows:
- Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust and dirt from tracks and frames. As a result, dirt cannot spread during the cleaning process.
- Clean the glass with a microfiber cloth that is dry and clean. For stubborn marks, apply a nonabrasive cleaner with a microfiber cloth.
- Use a solvent like acetone or mineral spirits on particularly stubborn stains, and avoid the window frame to prevent discoloration.
WARNING: Never use a razor blade to remove marks, as it can permanently scratch the glass.
Step 3: Take the Time to Wash the Window Frames
Avoiding methods that could harm their finish when washing window frames is crucial. Use warm, soapy water and a soft rag instead of power washing, which can be too aggressive.
Don’t use abrasive chemicals, which may discolor or damage the frame! If stubborn stains don’t budge with regular cleaning, a solution of mineral spirits or a trusted cleaner, dry cloth, will work effectively.
Step 4: Ensure that the Entire Glass Surface is Clean
It is essential to pay attention to the technique regarding streak-free glass. Follow these steps for Perfect results:
- Opt for a lint-free microfiber cloth instead of paper towels. It can leave lint and fibers behind, dimming the clarity of your windows.
- Spray your chosen cleaner directly onto the microfiber cloth rather than the window.
- Working your way down the window, start at the top and clean it. This ensures that any drips or residue are caught and cleaned as you progress.
- Clean the glass in a zig-zag pattern rather than straight lines. Especially in hard-to-reach areas, this method ensures thorough cleaning.
- If there are any residues left over from the solution, wipe them off with a microfiber cloth. Finish with this step to prevent streaks.
- After the window has dried, inspect it for streaks or spots. Repeat the cleaning process until the glass is streak-free and clear.
WARNING: If you still see streaks, rinse the window with water and dry it again.
Step 5: Air-vacuum Window Screens
Clean screens let in more light and keep bugs out. Use an upholstery brush attachment to vacuum the screens. Clean kitchen window screens with a sponge and hot water.
Before reassembling retractable or hidden screens, ensure they are scorched to prevent mold or mildew.
Step 6: Getting Rid of Dust with Blinds and Shades
Regular dusting of blinds and shades is essential to maintain appearance and functionality.
Use a dry cloth or vacuum with a soft brush attachment for wood blinds to gently remove dust and debris. Water and harsh cleaning solutions can damage wood, so be careful not to use them.
You can clean plastic or metal blinds using mild detergent and warm water. After soaking, rinse the blinds thoroughly and let them air dry completely before reinstallation.
Fabric blinds or shades require a different approach. Use a damp cloth with a drapery brush attachment to spot-clean any smudges or stains after vacuuming. If you wet the fabric excessively, you may cause damage to it.
If you have standard blinds or shades installed over the glass, regular dusting will help prolong their lifespan.
Step 7: Make your Finish Look Professional with a Squeegee
Mix a slightly dilute solution in a bucket for use with a squeegee. Then, use a sponge and solution to wash the windows.
Once the bottom of the window has been cleaned, wipe the squeegee’s edge to prevent drips.
Step 8: Dust and Wipe Down Sills and Floors
After cleaning the windows, excess water is often present on the sills and floors. Dry window sills and floors with a towel. Microfiber cloths get wet and dirty quickly, making a towel more efficient.
If any marks remain on the windows, rub them with a clean microfiber cloth or repeat the cleaning process.
Step 9: Keep the Exterior Windows Clean.
Exterior windows often require extra attention due to exposure to the elements. Ensure safety when cleaning hard-to-reach outdoor windows. Apply the same cleaning methods used for interior windows.
Professional window cleaning services can be a safe and efficient option for large or high windows.
So, these are the easiest steps to try to clean your window streak-free!
7 Essential Tips for Clean Windows Streak-free
Here are some essential tips for easily dusting blinds and shades:
- Be sure to dust regularly as part of your cleaning schedule.
- Use appropriate methods for your blinds or shades to avoid damage.
- Be cautious with water on fabric blinds to prevent damage.
- Ensure blinds or shades are fully dry before reinstalling to avoid mold.
- Use soft cloths, vacuums with brush attachments, or damp cloths as needed.
- Consider professional services for delicate or intricate blinds.
- Use coatings to repel dust and simplify future cleaning.
Frequently Asked Question
After cleaning my windows, why are they streaky?
On warm, bright days, streaks might emerge from the cleaning solution evaporating quickly or from insufficient removal, which leaves a residue behind.
How do you make crystal clear windows?
Mix vinegar and water in equal parts for tough dirt, or use store-bought cleaners mixed with ammonia. Add dish soap to warm water to make a light cleaner.
How do you stop window streaks?
Mix vinegar and warm water. Instead of soap and paper towels, use a small amount of soap mixed with a microfiber cloth or newspaper to remove spots and lint.
Sum Up
Regular window cleaning, at least twice a year, ensures your home remains bright and welcoming.
Following our detailed steps and tips about how to clean windows streak-free, you can achieve streak-free windows that increase your home’s look.
So, Enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your surroundings through clear, sparkling glass!