Washing windows is a task most people dread and often avoid altogether. However, ideally, you should wash your windows twice a year. Part of what makes DIY window cleaning such a chore is that most people do it with a wad of paper towels, spray cleaner, and a lot of elbow grease.
Not only is this time-consuming, but it’s not the best method. Have you ever noticed that the window looks dirty again soon after you cleaned them? All that rubbing moves dirt around and creates a static charge on the glass, which attracts dust and dirt. Use these two 3-step methods for getting streak-free windows at home. Or, better yet, let the professionals do it while you relax.
Picture Window Cleaning
STEP 1: Wash the window with a strip applicator.
Cleaning picture windows call for large tools. You’ll need to purchase a strip applicator with a long cloth head. The strip applicator soaks up a lot of soapy water and knocks the dirt loose without scratching the glass. Squirt a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid into a gallon bucket of warm water, dip the strip applicator in the solution, and apply it to the window. The fewer suds, the better.
STEP 2: Wipe it clean with a squeegee.
Begin at the top left. Pull the squeegee over the soapy pane in a reverse S-pattern. You’ll want to start at the top right if you’re left-handed. Wipe the squeegee’s blade after the end of each stroke with a lint-free rag such as a cloth diaper or old linen napkin.
STEP 3: Dry the edges of the glass.
Lastly, you’ll need to dry off any remaining drips on the edges of the glass with a damp, wring-dry chamois. Chamois are excellent because they soak up excess water well without leaving streaks. Also, dry the windowsill with a rag.
Multipaned Window Cleaning
STEP 1: Customize the squeegee.
You’ll need a squeegee that fits the panes for cleaning your multipaned window. Using a hacksaw, cut a window squeegee down to size to fit your window panes. Trim the metal channel ¼ inch narrower than the window pane and file the edges smoothly. Cut the rubber blade with a utility knife to match the pane’s FULL width. You should end up with ⅛ ich at each end.
STEP 2: Scrub the panes.
Use the same soapy solution you use we mentioned above. Rub each pane from left to right and top to bottom using a natural handheld sponge or hog-bristle brush. Work the sponge edges or brush bristles into the corners to loosen the dirt.
STEP 3: Wipe clean with a squeegee.
Clean each pane by pulling the squeegee down in a single stroke from top to bottom. Clean the blade with a rag after each stroke to avoid leaving streaks. Use the chamois to remove any streaks on the glass and a rag to dry the muntins and sill.
NOTE: Add more soap to the water if the squeegee squeaks a lot.
Leave the DIY Window Cleaning to Us
Do you want that beautiful, clear view you get from clean windows? Does it sound like a lot of work to do yourself? Let our team help. Nichols Reliable Lawn Care & More can help you enjoy your view without lifting a finger other than to call us.