If you live in a home with a view, you’ll no doubt appreciate having beautiful wide windows to bring the outdoors, indoors. However this brings it’s own problems in that no windows stay clean on their own. From children’s fingerprints and paint splatters to rain spots and bird droppings, dirty windows hinder natural light and can even reduce air quality and energy efficiency in the home.
With this in mind, company founder Allan Reid shares some unique (and unexpected) window-cleaning techniques on behalf of Art Windows and Doors.
Removing marks from windows can be tricky. Some marks require specific techniques for removal and incorrect cleaning techniques may lead to stubborn streaks, which are particularly noticeable when sunlight hits the glass. Glass is also a fairly delicate material, and using the wrong cleaning agents or abrasive tools may scratch or damage it.
Understanding how to balance effective cleaning techniques while preserving the integrity of the glass is key. These hacks will help you keep your view looking clearer for longer and won’t break the bank!
Vinegar vapour blitz: Harnessing the power of vinegar steam
“This technique taps into the combined power of steam and acidity to dissolve grime and dirt. Heat up white vinegar on a low-medium setting in a heat-resistant container, but do not bring it to the boil. When the vinegar begins to produce steam, pour it into a spray bottle. When spraying, focus on the areas with visible stains, streaks and grime. Leave the solution for a few moments, before wiping with a clean cloth or paper towel.
“For something with a more attractive scent, add lemon zest to vinegar and leave for a week. Strain, and dilute with water.”
Tea for a transcendent shine
“Tea contains tannic acid, which has natural astringent properties, cuts through grime and adds a shine to glass surfaces. Brew a pot of black tea. Both tea bags and loose tea can be used. Allow the tea to steep for several minutes to ensure that a strong infusion develops. Cool the tea to room temperature. Once cool, dampen a clean cloth or paper towel with the tea. Gently wipe the window. After wiping, use a clean cloth to remove excess moisture from the glass.”
Try rubber gloves for pet hair
“Pet hair sticks to rubber gloves due to a combination of static electricity, friction and the texture of rubber. Rubber can develop a static charge when it comes into contact with other materials. When rubbed against per hair, the friction generates static electricity. Crevices and microstructures in the glove’s surface catch and trap hair effectively.
“Put on a pair of gloves and dampen them slightly. Swipe your hand across the window, applying gentle pressure. Follow up with a normal cleaning method.”
Use a toothbrush for hard-to-reach corners
“For hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, we recommend using a toothbrush, which is fantastic for precision cleaning. The bristles are mildly abrasive, without being harsh enough to damage glass. Combine water and salt in a bowl, and dip your toothbrush. Gentle scrub, paying close attention to the corners of the window.”
Dual-sided cleaning
“Blinds can be particularly difficult to clean. Slats are often a breeding ground for dust and grime. Try wrapping a microfiber cloth around a pair of kitchen tongs and securing it tightly with a rubber band. Glide the microfibre-covered pad between the blind’s slats.”
Microfibre magic
“Microfibre cloths typically work better than paper towels when cleaning windows, as they have a finer texture. This finer texture is designed to capture stubborn particles of dirt, leaving fewer streaks behind.”