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1. Newspaper:
Let's kick things off with an unexpected yet effective window cleaning hack – newspaper. Say goodbye to paper towels that leave lint behind and hello to a crumbly mess of paper. Crumple up some newspaper, dip it in your favorite cleaning solution, and wipe the glass.
Wipe the solution in circles numerous times in various directions untill the water starts to fade. You won't get very far by using a crumbled up newspaper but stick with it. The newspaper will most likely be torn apart so you will need to get a dry sheet of newspaper and keep rubbing the solution until most of the water is soaked into the newspaper. Get a third dry sheet of news paper and buff the window in a similiar fashion to soak up the last drops of water and clear up any dryed on solutions. Get a fourth sheet of newspaper and lightly rub the glass for good measure.
Newspaper is a good alternative to maintaining the interior panes of your home or business windows if you have newspaper laying around and maintain the glass on a DAILY basis.
2. Vinegar and Water Mixture:
For a classic and cost-effective solution, look no further than the vinegar and water mixture. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and you've got a natural concoction that cuts through grease and grime. Plus, it's an environmentally friendly option that won't break the bank.
Note that the vinegar dries quickly and should be used on cool glass and remain wet when not being cleaned. It's best to use the newspaper technique when using vinegar and water. Vinegar and water is a classic and can be used to clean much more then glass.
3. Squeegee Mastery:
The squeegee is your secret weapon for streak-free windows. Master the 'S' motion – a technique favored by professional window cleaners. This method ensures an even clean, preventing streaks and leaving your windows looking pristine.
This method is also called "chopping down the mountain" because of the way the soap looks as if its a mountain disapearing in the window pane. To ensure a even clean you need to scrub all of the window pane, corners, sides, top and bottom like you woud with any solution. A squeegee ensures that all of the water is taken off of the glass instead of being rubbed into and off of the glass.
4. Microfiber Magic:
Enter the world of microfiber cloths – a window's best friend. The ultra-fine fibers trap dirt and dust without scratching the glass. Pair them with your favorite cleaning solution for a spotless finish that will make your windows shine.
Microfiber towels work great! They absorb and hold onto a good amount of water without dripping all over the place. You will need at least three microfiber towels to clean your windows using only microfiber towels. One microfiber towel will be used to scrub the window after it's been sprayed with a cleaning solution. The second towel will be used to get the first towels left overs and the third towel is there to wipe off any drips left behind.
Microfiber towels work great when they are dry to remove smudges and light dust.
5. Old Socks as Wiping Aids:
Don't discard those old socks just yet. Give them a new purpose as wiping aids for your window cleaning routine. Slip one over your hand, dip it into your cleaning solution, and let it work its magic. Not only is this hack effective, but it's also an eco-friendly way to repurpose old clothing.
Please don't do this. Why would you do this? You could do this, sure, if you have a clean sock, but, just don't do this. Other old sock ideas come to mind like donating to the homeless, wiping deck stain, painting.
Reasons not to use a sock on a window...
1. It's a sock.
2. The sock will not absorb the water on glass like it does your nasty feet.
3. If you have a crusty sock you could scratch the glass.
6. Toothbrush Detailing:
When it comes to those hard-to-reach corners and tracks, an old toothbrush can be a game-changer. The bristles get into tight spaces, ensuring no dirt is left behind. This attention to detail will leave your windows looking cleaner than ever.
This works in some cases. The bristles tend to be long enough to get into hard to reach sections but the tooth brush head is ussually to large to maneurver in an effective way through the tracks. I recomened cutting the head in half to make it more narrow and cut the end of the tooth brush into a tip.
7. Rain Repellent Spray:
Ever thought of using rain repellent on your windows? This hack works wonders. Apply a rain repellent spray after cleaning. Not only does it add an extra layer of protection, but it also helps water bead off, keeping your windows cleaner for an extended period.
This is a perfect idea for home owners that live on the beach or a constantly dusty area. Please ask a professional to apply the repellent instead of using rain-x.
8. Ice for Sticky Residue:
Sticky residue or adhesive on your windows? Grab an ice cube! Rub it over the sticky area, and watch as the residue hardens, making it easier to scrape off without causing any damage to the glass.
please don't do this, just soak the sticky residue with your wet cloth. I don't think that the residue would even harden. The icecube would melt before actually helping you.
9. Lemon Freshness:
Add a refreshing twist to your cleaning routine by incorporating lemon. The natural acidity of lemon cuts through grease, leaving your windows sparkling. Plus, the citrusy aroma will leave your space smelling clean and bright – a win-win!
Same idea as the vinegar solution above. Smells betther though :)
10. Time Your Cleaning:
Consider timing your window cleaning on a cloudy day. Direct sunlight can cause your cleaning solution to dry too quickly, resulting in streaks. Cloudy days offer the perfect conditions for a leisurely, streak-free clean. Take advantage of the weather to achieve the best results.
These window cleaning hacks are simple, cost-effective, and, most importantly, highly effective. Incorporate them into your routine, and you'll be enjoying crystal-clear windows in no time!
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Let's embark on a journey of home maintenance excellence together!