When it comes to the view outside your house you don’t want anything to get in the way, especially dirty windows. There are many reasons why windows end up dirty over time; fingerprints, airborne dust, and even pollen can sully windows. Here’s how to achieve a streak-free clean.
DON’T CLEAN IN THE SUN
If you’ve ever heard the adage about never cleaning your windows when the sun is shining, it’s not just an old wives’ tale. The reason actually makes sense. When you try to clean in the sun, the window cleaner can dry on the glass faster than you have time to rub it on the windows. This results in those telltale steaks that mar the window. Instead, do all your window cleaning before the sun shines on the window or after it’s gone down in the sky.
SKIP THE PAPER TOWELS
Paper towels aren’t the best material to use on your windows. They absorb too much of the window cleaner, and they can leave behind tiny bits of paper. Paper towels also make for a streaky window. Instead, invest in a set of lint-free cloths that you only use on your windows. These will make it fairly easy to achieve a streak-free window every time you clean. When you launder lint-free cloths, don’t use fabric softener. Fabric softener inhibits the effectiveness of the cloth. Finally, store your lint-free cloths separate from other clothes so they don’t pick up lint from another source.
USE A SQUEEGEE
One big secret that hotel maids use is a squeegee. Squeegees leave a streak-free window and mirror. Simply spray the window cleaner on the window. Using smooth strokes, move the squeegee down the surface of the glass all the way to the edge. Repeat all the way across the glass. Use your lint-free cloth to buff away any leftover droplets.
FINISH WITH A POLISH
Another maid secret is to polish windows with furniture polish. Any brand will work. This removes any streaks that may be “hiding.” Use a clean lint-free cloth and buff in a circular motion. Now your windows are spot-free and streak-free!
Window Danny 