Window cleaning can be a tedious and lengthy task depending on your home’s layout. While hiring professional cleaning services can take this burden off your chest, it is not always an option for homeowners who like doing everything by themselves. If you have decided to take on the job by yourself, then you had better do it right if you want it to pay off in future. Keep in mind that window cleaning can be a dangerous task especially when you have to balance on a ladder to clean hard-to-reach areas. You are likely to cause damage to your property in the process if you do not take caution in advance. This article looks at some of the dos and don’ts of window cleaning.
The Dos of Window Cleaning
- Do Use the Right Cleaner
As a homeowner, you have the option to use natural cleaning solutions or professional cleaning products. The decision to choose between the two all comes down to individual preferences and what works best for you. Some of the best cleaning products include a professionally recommended glass cleaner, a mixture of vinegar and water, or dishwashing liquid and water. The most important thing to remember when cleaning your windows is to avoid leaving streaks by wiping off the cleaning solution completely.
- Do Clean All Window Parts
Regular cleaning is an essential part of window maintenance since windows are constantly exposed to elements such as wind, snow, rain, and sun. Failure to clean your windows can lead to a buildup of dirt and debris around the window track making it difficult to open and close your windows. The accumulated dirt not only damages window parts but can also leave a permanent stain on your window glass. It is important to clean all parts of your windows including the windowsill, window glass, track, and screen. The glass needs to be cleaned both from the inside and outside to achieve the best results.
Do Use the Right Cleaning Tools
Consider a pair of microfiber cloths for a serious clean. Use one microfiber cloth for cleaning and the other for drying to avoid leaving fuzz on your windows. The reason why professional cleaners recommend microfiber cloth is that it is more eco-friendly compared to paper towels. However, if you want to give your windows a professional-looking clean, then you should consider using a squeegee instead. It helps to avoid any smudges or annoying streaks on windows. Make sure the rubber on your squeegee is in good shape to avoid scratching the glass.
The Don’ts of Window Cleaning
- Don’t Clean Your Windows on Hot Sunny Days
It is not advisable to clean your windows on a sunny day because the heat from the sun makes them dry quickly. This can leave smears and streaks behind making it difficult to keep the glass clean with every single wipe. It also means that you have to apply more liquid to the glass so that you can have enough time to squeegee it off. The glass will absorb the liquid faster because it is hotter than usual, which can leave squeegee lines or visible white markings on the glass.
- Don’t Use Newspapers and Magazines
Newspapers have long been used as a cheaper alternative for cleaning windows since they are easily accessible and do not leave traces of fuzz or tint like other towels. However, they are not the best option as they do a poor job when it comes to wiping away cleaning fluid. The ink from the newspaper can smudge over your windows when it gets soaked with your cleaning solution. Consider a soft microfiber cloth or a squeegee to achieve the best results.
- Don’t Forget to Clean the Insides
It is important to clean the interior of your windows if you want to complete the look of a sparkling or super clean window. Many homeowners tend to clean outside their windows and forget the interior probably because it is less exposed to outside elements. However, dust and dirt that accumulates around the window track or at the corners of the glass can diminish the overall look and feel of your windows.
- Don’t Compromise Your Safety
One of the reasons why experts recommend having your windows professionally cleaned is because window cleaning is extremely dangerous especially if it involves climbing ladders. If you are bothered about safety when cleaning hard-to-reach windows then it is important to seek professional help rather than take a huge risk.
Windows that are properly cleaned and maintained will look squeaky clean. Improper care only leads to streaks and smudges that tell a different story about your home and personality. It is also important to seek professional help where necessary to avoid compromising your safety. Clean windows not only make your home look nice but also makes it retain its value and aesthetic appeal to future homebuyers.