When you look out your window, do you sometimes see streaks and smudges that block your view? It makes you mad, doesn’t it? But before you buy a window cleaner from the store, have you thought about making your own solution? Not only is it cheap, but it is also good for the environment and can make your windows look like new.
In this article, I’ll talk about why you might want to make your own window cleaner and give you some easy-to-follow recipes that will have your windows sparkling in no time.
So, get your spray bottle and let’s get started!
Importance of Regular Window Cleaning
Why DIY Window Washing Solution is the Best Option
Window cleaning is an important part of keeping your windows looking nice and making sure they last as long as possible.
There are many commercial window cleaning products on the market, but they can be expensive and contain harsh chemicals that are bad for the environment and your health.
Making your own window cleaning solution can save you money and be better for the environment than buying one.
It can also work just as well.
Ingredients for DIY Window Washing Solution
Making your own window cleaner is easy, and you may already have most of the things you need at home.
Here are the things you need to make it:
- Water
- White vinegar
- Dish soap
Instructions for Making DIY Window Washing Solution
Follow these simple steps to make your own window cleaner:
1. Pour warm water into a bucket.
2. Pour one cup of white vinegar into the water.
3. Put some dish soap into the mixture.
4. Give the solution a good stir.
Using DIY Window Washing Solution
After you make your own window cleaning solution, you can start cleaning your windows. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Put the solution on a sponge or cloth and wring it out.
2. Start at the top of the window and work your way down as you wipe it with the sponge or cloth.
3. Use a squeegee to get rid of the water and solution that is still on the window.
4. Wipe the window with a clean cloth to get rid of any water or solution that is still there.
5. Do this for each window that you want to clean.
Cleaning your windows regularly is a must if you want them to look good and last a long time.
Making your own window cleaning solution is both cheaper and better for the environment than buying one.
You can make a solution that works just as well as those sold in stores with just a few simple ingredients.
Follow the steps above to keep your windows clean and clear all year long.
DIY Window Cleaning Solutions
Benefits of Using a DIY Window Washing Solution
There are many reasons to make your own window cleaning solution.
First, it saves money because it can be made with things that are easy to find around the house.
Second, it is good for the environment because it doesn’t have harsh chemicals that can hurt the earth.
Third, it is safe to use because it doesn’t put the user’s health at risk.
Fourth, it works well to clean windows because it can get rid of dirt, dust, and smudges on the glass.
Fifth, it can keep windows from getting moldy or mildewed.
Sixth, it can make windows completely clear and free of streaks.
Homemade Window Cleaning Solutions
Mixing two gallons of water and a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid is one of the best ways to clean windows at home.
This solution works well to clean windows of dirt and grime.
Mixing 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 10 drops of essential oils is another popular way to make a home remedy.
People also often use vinegar and water to clean windows.
This solution works well to clean windows and get rid of smudges and streaks.
Commercial Window Cleaning Solutions
There are also commercial window cleaning solutions that you can buy instead of making at home. The experts at the Home Care and Cleaning Lab of the Good Housekeeping Institute test many brands of window cleaners every year. HOPE’s Perfect Glass was chosen as one of the best window cleaners of 2023. Windex Complete is another popular ammonia-based commercial window cleaner that does a great job of cleaning.
Cleaning Tough Spots on Windows
Mineral deposits and stains on windows can be cleaned with mild household abrasives and an ordinary power drill.
It’s important to choose the right window cleaning solution because there are many different ways to get rid of dirt, smudges, and buildup.
In the end, the best way to clean windows will depend on what you like and what kind of windows you are cleaning.
Benefits of Clean Windows
Having clean windows also has a number of other benefits.
First, they make a property look better from the street, making it look more valuable and attractive.
Second, they let in more light from outside, making the house brighter and happier.
Third, they make the view out the window better, making it easier to see what’s going on outside.
Fourth, they make the house healthier by cutting down on the amount of dust and allergens.
Fifth, they can make windows last longer by keeping dirt and other things from breaking them.
Ingredients and Mixing of DIY Window Washing Solution
Ingredients for DIY Window Washing Solution
There are a few things you can use to make your own window cleaning solution.
White vinegar is a common ingredient that is used in a lot of recipes.
Dish soap is another common ingredient that works well to get dirt and grime off windows.
There are also rubbing alcohol, cornstarch, and essential oils that can be used.
Recipes for DIY Window Washing Solution
Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and hot water to make a simple window cleaner.
You can also mix 2 cups of water, 14 cup of white vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap.
Mix 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar, 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 2 cups of water, and 10 drops of essential oil for a more natural solution.
There are many ways to make a window cleaning solution at home.
In one recipe, two gallons of water and about a teaspoon of dishwashing soap are mixed together.
In a spray bottle, mix 50 ml (1.7 oz) of dish soap, 200 ml (6.7 oz) of denatured alcohol, and water.
This is another way to make the cleaner.
In a third recipe, you mix equal parts hot water and white vinegar.
Using DIY Window Washing Solution
It is important to use the right tools when you make your own window cleaning solution.
Large polyester or natural sea sponges, a squeegee with extension poles, and lint-free cloths are suggested.
Spray the solution on the window and wipe it clean with a cloth to use it.
Then, use a squeegee to get rid of any extra water and make sure there are no streaks on the window.
Step 1: Put the water and dish soap in a bucket and mix them together.
Use a sponge or scrubber to wet the window, then use a squeegee to get rid of the extra water.
Recipe 2: Spray the window with water from the tap and wipe away any extra dust and grime.
Then, spray the mixture on the window and wipe it clean with a new cloth.
In a spray bottle, mix the vinegar and hot water. Spray the mixture on the window and clean it with a cloth.
Safety Precautions
It’s important to know that denatured alcohol is very flammable and can kill you if you drink it.
It’s important to be careful and follow safety rules when making your own window cleaning solution.
Tools and Techniques for Effective Window Cleaning
Tools for Window Cleaning
You need a few simple tools to clean windows well. These things are:
- Squeegee (10 or 12 inches)
- Scrubber or sponge
- Bucket (a 5-gallon plastic bucket will do)
- Razor blade mounted in a holder (for removing paint specks and labels)
- Mild household abrasives and an ordinary power drill (for tough glass stains and built-up mineral deposits)
The tools you use will depend on how dirty it is and what you like.
For everyday wiping, you might not even need any product, but if you haven’t cleaned your windows in a while, you’ll have to put in more effort to get them to shine.
If you want your windows to be properly cleaned, you should buy a professional tool for cleaning.
Making a Homemade Window-Washing Solution
The right tools, method, and weather are needed to clean windows without leaving streaks.
First, make a homemade window-cleaning solution by doing the following:
1. Pour cool water into a bucket.
2. Add a few drops of dish soap in liquid form.
3. Don’t use dish soaps made from plants, because the oils in them leave streaks on windows.
4. To clean the windows, use a natural sponge or a microfiber cloth.
5. To get rid of the cleaning solution, use a squeegee on a long pole.
6. Use a dry cloth to wipe the blade of the squeegee clean and make sure it is dry.
7. To clean the other side of the window, use the squeegee from top to bottom instead of side to side.
Don’t use ammonia- or alcohol-based glass cleaners because they clean better but leave streaks on windows.
Use something like vinegar or soapy water to clean the glass instead.
Spray the cleaner on the whole surface and use a sponge to clean the glass from top to bottom.
When you’re done washing the window, dry it with a clean cloth.
Tips for Achieving Streak-Free Windows
Experts say that the best way to clean windows is to do it inside and cover the whole piece of glass.
Once the window is clean, rub it with crumpled newspaper in a circular motion to get rid of any cleaning fluid left behind and leave no streaks.
It’s also important to clean the window frames, which can collect dust and other things.
Before you clean the glass without leaving streaks, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to get rid of loose dirt.
Tips and Safety Precautions for Cleaning Hard-to-Reach Windows
DIY Window Washing Solution: Tips and Techniques
Cleaning windows that are hard to get to can be hard, but it can be made easier with the right tools and methods.
Here are some safe and effective ways to clean your windows.
Tools for Cleaning Hard-to-Reach Windows
An extendable squeegee is one of the best ways to clean windows that are hard to get to.
This tool is made to clean windows from the top to the bottom, making sure that no streaks are left behind.
It’s also important to use a broom with a cover or a window scrubber that you can extend to dry the windows after you clean them.
A telescoping rod with a mop on the end is another good way to clean windows that are hard to reach.
Because you don’t have to get off the ground, this is one of the safest ways to clean hard-to-reach windows.
When cleaning windows that are hard to reach, it is also important to put safety first.
Always use a sturdy ladder or step stool and wear the right safety gear, like gloves and safety glasses.
Cleaning Solution for Window Casings and Tracks
To clean the window frames and tracks, mix water and distilled white vinegar in a ratio of one part water to three parts vinegar.
Use a microfiber cloth to clean the window frames and tracks after spraying the solution on them with a spray bottle.
Use mild household abrasives and a regular power drill to get rid of tough stains and mineral buildup.
Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1 gallon of water and use a scrub pad to clean the glass.
Safety Precautions for Window Cleaning
Yes, there are ways to keep yourself safe when you clean windows.
Lowes says that when cleaning windows, you should wear the right safety gear, like goggles and cleaning gloves.
Also, if there is pinesap or other gunk on the outside of the windows, you should use a window scraper or a plastic putty knife to get rid of it before you wash the windows.
The Window Cleaning Field Safety Guide says that you shouldn’t work when it’s windy, because it could affect your safety or the safety of those around you.
When sustained wind speeds are more than 25 miles per hour, window cleaning shouldn’t be done outside.
When cleaning windows on high-rise buildings, there are important safety steps that must be taken.
Before cleaning windows, workers must check the weather, because bad weather can quickly become a safety hazard.
High winds, extreme heat or cold, rain, and lightning are all examples of things that can make things dangerous.
When the wind speed is 15 miles per hour or more, you should be careful, and you shouldn’t clean the outside of high-rise windows when the wind speed stays at 25 miles per hour or more.
To stay safe, you also need the right gear, like safety harnesses, lines, and anchors, as well as personal protection like gloves, helmets, and boots.
Consider Hiring a Professional Window Cleaner
If cleaning windows that are hard to reach seems too hard, you might want to hire a professional window cleaner.
They have the right tools and know-how to safely and effectively clean even the windows that are hard to reach.
When cleaning windows, safety precautions include wearing the right safety gear, not working when it’s windy, and checking the weather before cleaning high-rise windows.
You can clean your windows well and safely if you have the right tools and know-how.
Conclusion
In the end, cleaning your windows yourself is a great way to save money and keep them looking clean and clear.
But it’s important to keep in mind that not every solution is the same.
Some might be too strong and damage your windows, while others might not be strong enough to get rid of dirt and grime that is stuck on.
Because of this, it’s important to do your research and find a solution that fits your needs.
Whether you use vinegar and water, dish soap and water, or a commercial window cleaning solution, make sure to follow the directions carefully and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your windows.
At the end of the day, clean windows not only make your home or office look better, but they also let in more natural light, which can be good for your mood and well-being as a whole.
So, spend some time and money on your windows so you can see clearly.
Looking for a new Magnetic window cleaner?
Choosing a gadget can be very difficult if you know nothing about the technology.
Some will pay for features they do not need while others may not consider what they really want.
So I created this quick, newbie guide to help you focus on what is really important to you:
The Best Magnetic Window Cleaner (For You!)
Links and references
- Angie’s List article on homemade window cleaner
- Reader’s Digest article on homemade window cleaners
- A Plus Pro Services website mentioning magnetic window cleaners
My article on the topic:
