Cleaning and washing your windows may seem an easy enough chore for you to do and true to it, it’s easy. But once you get down to it, especially when dealing with stubborn window stains, you discover it’s monotonous and boring.
And if you can get past that, you’ll have to use some cleverness to remove stubborn window stains and dirt from the glass surfaces. Accomplishing this task without leaving smudges or worse scratches on the glass requires delicate hands. You may find that this is best left to the professional window washers to handle. But we’re going to show you some secret techniques you can apply to do it yourself, like a pro.
Tools You Need
The tools you use to achieve a task is just as important as the outcome itself. In order for you to succeed with the technique of cleaning your windows, leaving no streaks and smudges, you’ll need the following:
Microfiber Cloth
A cloth of this material won’t leave lint. This makes it capable of removing lint left by other materials.
Squeegee
Wherever and whenever window cleaning is involved, a squeegee is there. It’s used to wash and wipe the windows.
Newspapers
The black and white prints to be precise. You don’t want to smear colors all over the glass.
Coffee Filters
Its work is similar to the a microfiber cloth. It’s used to remove lint.
The Techniques
Dip a sponge or cloth into a solution of warm water and window cleaning agent. Use the sponge/cloth to wipe the entire window, focusing on any window stains to help break them down. With the squeegee, wipe the solution from the glass with vertical strokes. Try not to cross over each stroke as this could get messy. Wipe areas you can reach with a towel.
After each stroke with the squeegee, be sure to wipe the squeegee with a clean damp cloth before moving on with the next stroke. This helps prevent spreading window stains across the glass.
If you prefer to use a coffee filter or newspaper, first put the solution in a spray bottle and apply it to the glass. As you apply, wipe away the solution from up to down or left to right. But remember, whichever motion you are using, try to be consistent with it to effectively remove any window stains.
For better results, try cleaning your windows on an overcast day when the sun doesn’t shine directly on your windows. A less breezy day is also a good time. Why? Well, it won’t be nice for the solution to dry off on your window so quickly while you’re still working on the glass. That only makes the cleaning that much harder.
Never at any point should you be tempted to use abrasives on your windows, especially where glass is involved. This will only harm and ruin the appearance of your glass.
The best way to tackle tough stains on windows is with patience and gentleness, not for the benefit of the stains of course, but for the sake of your glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best methods to remove stubborn window stains?
To remove stubborn window stains effectively, use warm water and a window cleaning solution with a microfiber cloth or sponge. Focus on the stained areas, then wipe with a squeegee in consistent strokes to avoid smudges.
Can I clean window stains without leaving scratches on the glass?
Yes, to avoid scratches while cleaning window stains, always use gentle tools like microfiber cloths, coffee filters, or newspapers. Avoid abrasive materials that can damage the glass surface.
Why do window stains sometimes leave smudges after cleaning?
Smudges often happen when the cleaning solution dries too quickly or when the squeegee blade is dirty. Wiping the squeegee blade after every stroke and cleaning on an overcast, less breezy day can help prevent smudges on window stains.
Is it better to clean window stains on sunny or cloudy days?
Cleaning window stains is best done on overcast days because direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry too fast, leading to streaks and making it harder to remove the stains.
What tools are recommended for tackling tough window stains?
For tough window stains, use a microfiber cloth, squeegee, newspapers, and coffee filters. These tools help clean without leaving lint or scratches, ensuring a spotless finish.
