Cleaning your windows regularly not only improves your home’s curb appeal but also impacts your overall indoor air quality. Many homeowners often use commercial glass cleaning products as they are readily available in local stores. However, there are other natural methods to clean your windows such as the use of cornstarch. Although it may seem unusual, cornstarch has unique chemical properties that make it effective for cleaning glass windows. In this article, we will be discussing the science behind using cornstarch as a window cleaner, how to make the solution, and its benefits.
The unique chemical properties of cornstarch
Cornstarch is a white powdery substance also known as cornflour, and is derived from the endosperm of corn. It is made up of very fine granules which makes it a mild abrasive because it can gently remove dirt and grime from glass surfaces without causing damage.
Cornstarch is also absorbent, which means it can easily soak up moisture in the cleaning process, leaving your glass windows streak-free. It has a neutral pH of 7 which means it is neither alkaline nor acidic. As a biodegradable material, cornstarch naturally breaks down over time, making it an environment-friendly alternative to traditional chemical cleaners.
The most effective way to clean windows
How to make a window cleaning solution using cornstarch
The major primary ingredients for making a window cleaning solution using cornstarch are cornstarch and warm water. Fill a bucket with warm water, add cornstarch, and then stir until it is dissolved. Soak a clean microfiber cloth in the cornstarch solution and wipe the windows in a circular motion. It is always advisable to work your way from top to bottom. Rinse the window with clean water and then buff the windows with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any streaks.
Other ingredients that you can add to your cornstarch window cleaning solution include a quarter cup of white vinegar for extra cleaning power and a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. If you will be using a spray bottle, consider shaking it well every time before each use. The reason why we use warm water when creating cornstarch solution is because cold water doesn’t dissolve it well. It is also recommended to work in sections starting from top to bottom to get the best cleaning results.
The benefits of using cornstarch as a window cleaner
- It is effective at getting rid of dirt, grime, and streaks
As a mild abrasive, cornstarch can help loosen dirt and grime from windows making it easier to clean. It also prevents streaks by absorbing oil, grease, or excess moisture, leaving your glass windows clean and sparkling. You can make the cornstarch solution stronger by loosening dirt and grime from glass by adding white vinegar. White vinegar can remove hard water stains and dissolve grease because it is a naturally acidic cleaner.
- It absorbs grease and oil
The absorbent nature of cornstarch makes it effective at soaking up oil, grease, and excess moisture from dirty windows. It is composed of tiny granules that scrub away grease, oil, and dirt from windows without scratching the glass. This makes it easier to wipe it away with a dry microfiber cloth. It can also break down water bonds making it ideal for removing mineral deposits and hard water spots from windows.
- It is non-toxic and biodegradable
Cornstarch is neither acidic nor alkaline, which makes it safe to use on all types of glass. Because it is not toxic or corrosive, you can use it to clean tinted glass, shower doors, or mirrors. The biodegradable nature of cornstarch makes it environment-friendly compared to commercial window cleaners that contain harsh chemicals. It is a good choice for people who have sensitive skin because it is unlikely to cause reactions.
- It is affordable and easy to find
Cornstarch is readily available because it is a common household item that you can find at most grocery stores. It is affordable compared to the commercial glass cleaning products you can find in a local store making it a budget-friendly option for cleaning windows. If you are working on a budget, you can always rely on cornstarch as an affordable and effective window-cleaning solution.
Cornstarch is an effective window cleaner because it is mildly abrasive, absorbent, environment-friendly, and affordable. It is non-toxic, which makes it ideal for people who have sensitive skin conditions. The unique chemical properties of cornstarch make it ideal for use on all types of glass because it removes dirt without leaving streaks or any residue.