As spring drawers closer, I get the urge to begin washing our windows at
home.
When it comes to brightening up one's living space, clean windows play a pivotal role. Not only do they let in natural light, but they also offer a clear view of the world outside.
Achieving streak-free, sparkling windows throughout your home can seem like a daunting task. But, with the right approach and a little elbow grease, you can turn this chore into a satisfying endeavor.
1. Gather Your Supplies: Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You'll need:
A spray bottle with homemade glass cleaner. Add 8 ounces of hot water and 2 drops of a high-quality dishwashing liquid. Cover and shake to mix. For the dishsoap, I use Dawn A scrubbing brush
Your vacuum (with its vacuum cleaner attachment)
A drop cloth to protect your floors from drips and spills
2. Start Small: One Room, One
Window at a Time: To avoid feeling overwhelmed, break down the task into manageable chunks. Begin with one room and focus on one window at a time. This approach allows you to give each window the attention it deserves, ensuring a thorough cleaning job.
I
usually begin on the insides of the windows, and as the weather begins to warm, I move my efforts to outsides of the windows.
3. Remove Dirt and Debris: Before applying any cleaning solution, remove dirt, dust, and cobwebs from the window frame and sill using a brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. This step prevents
debris from smearing across the glass during the cleaning process.
4. Apply the Cleaning Solution: Liberally spray the cleaning solution onto the window glass, ensuring full coverage. For stubborn stains or buildup, allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before proceeding to the next
step.
5. Scrub and Squeegee: Using a scrubbing brush, gently agitate the glass in circular motions to loosen dirt and grime. Then, starting at the top of the window, use a squeegee to remove the cleaning solution in a single, fluid motion, working your way down. Wipe the squeegee blade with a clean cloth after each
pass to prevent streaks.
6. Detail the Edges and Corners: To tackle any remaining spots or streaks, use a microfiber cloth to detail the edges and corners of the window. Pay special attention to areas where dirt tends to accumulate, such as the corners and along the window frame.
7. Repeat for Each Window: Once you've completed the first window, move on to the next, repeating the same steps until you've washed all the windows in the room. Replace dirty cloths, as needed, to maintain optimal cleaning performance.
8. Admire Your Handiwork: Step back and admire the fruits of your labor! Revel in the clarity and brightness of your freshly washed windows!
By the way, I only wash windows on a shady
day. This almost always provides great results!
