Summer window cleaning, the one chore most homeowners dread. Little wonder most windows go several months with little or no cleaning. The road to clean, streak free windows is sometimes paved with stress, our impatience, and frayed nerves. This is because when cleaning windows, we make mistakes that produce annoying results. These streaks and smudges would have been avoided if we were better informed of the window techniques that really work. But that should change after you read this. I’ll bring to light these mistakes you make whenever you motivate yourself enough to start the chore. In order to get the best results when you clean your windows, avoid the following.
Using the wrong tools
In an earlier post, I said the tools you use for window cleaning are just as important as the technique you use. Use tools that are made specifically for window cleaning—squeegee, window cleaners, lint-free towels. Sometimes, in the absence of a squeegee, you can make do with a sponge. Don’t use a sponge that’s hard; you’ll risk scratching the glass. Use a soft sponge that is mild on the glass. You want to get the dirt off, not leave scratches on the glass, to ensure streak free windows every time.
Using the wrong cleaner
Every cleaner was made for a different surface. Using a cleaner made for cleaning marble, or a cleaner made for carpets or glass will definitely ruin your glass. Try not to compromise on this because if you don’t have a cleaner made for the window, especially one that helps achieve streak free windows, you won’t get the desired results. Take the time to read the labels on the cleaner you want to buy and confirm that it’s made for the surface you want it for before purchase.
Using too much cleaner
Too much cleaning can leave you struggling with a lot of leather on your windows. Using too much cleaner can be hard to remove from towels, squeegees, and spines you use in cleaning. It can even leave a build-up on the glass surface, making it difficult to achieve streak free windows.
Washing on a warm sunny day
Even washing on an airy day is a bad idea. As you wash, the heat of the sun and the breeze from the surroundings will dry the cleaning solution mixed with dirt on your windows. The result is always a very discouraging sight — streaks and dirt that mask the whole surface of the glass, preventing you from achieving streak free windows. The sight is enough to kill all the motivation you started with. Instead, wash windows on an overcast or less breezy day.
Using Paper Towels
It’s no secret that paper towels are great for absorbing water. Paper towels were never made for use on windows. Paper towels will leave behind particles that are immediately noticed on the glass, ruining your chances of achieving streak free windows. Use microfiber, lint-free towels or a squeegee instead. These have to be clean before use to dry the windows you just cleaned.
No matter how hard you try to clean your windows, if you keep making these mistakes, your windows may never be as clean, spotless, and streak-free as you’d expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common mistakes that prevent streak free windows?
Some common mistakes include using the wrong tools, applying too much cleaner, washing windows on sunny or windy days, using improper cleaning solutions, and relying on paper towels instead of microfiber cloths or squeegees. Avoiding these errors will help you get streak free windows every time.
Why is using the right tools important for streak free windows?
Using tools designed specifically for window cleaning, like squeegees and lint-free microfiber towels, ensures you don’t scratch or leave residue on the glass. The right tools make it easier to achieve streak free windows without frustration.
Can I use any cleaning solution to get streak free windows?
No, not all cleaners are suitable. It’s important to use a cleaner specifically made for glass or windows. Using cleaners meant for other surfaces, like marble or carpet,s can damage the glass and make it difficult to achieve streak free windows.
How does using too much cleaner affect streak free windows?
Using too much cleaner can leave residue on your windows, making it harder to remove and resulting in streaks. For streak free windows, use just the right amount of cleaner to avoid build-up.
Is the timing of window cleaning important for streak free windows?
Yes! Cleaning windows on a warm sunny or breezy day can cause the cleaner to dry too fast, leaving streaks and smudges. The best time for streak free windows is on an overcast, cool, and less windy day.
