Regularly cleaning windows is essential for keeping them clean and bright. While window cleaning may seem like a simple household task, upon closer inspection after wiping, you often find streaks and the windows seem to get dirtier. In response to this, experts have shared a method using two “old-school” items that can effectively clean windows without leaving streaks.
According to a report by the UK’s “Daily Express,” when windows are covered in streaks, people often think the solution is to switch to a different cleaning agent. However, Allan Reid, the founder of the door and window supplier “Art Windows and Doors,” has a different perspective.
Reid mentioned that there is an old-fashioned cleaning trick that doesn’t require expensive cleaning agents; all you need is vinegar and old newspapers to remove streaks on windows.
He stated, “Many people may find using vinegar and newspapers a bit outdated, but this method has been around for good reason.”
The expert explained that vinegar can effectively remove various stains and streaks on glass surfaces, and it’s likely something you already have in your kitchen cabinet.
He added, “If you haven’t tried this before, it may sound a bit odd. But the results are surprisingly good. It doesn’t leave annoying lint crumbs and makes the glass look exceptionally bright.”
He emphasized, “Sometimes we believe that every household chore requires a bunch of products, but this simple trick has stood the test of time because it genuinely works. It’s cost-effective, simple, and most households already have the necessary items.”
The method is straightforward. Mix white vinegar with water to clean the glass, then quickly wipe it with crumpled newspaper for polishing. This not only removes streaks but also cleans fingerprints, water stains, and accumulated dirt over time.
To maintain clean windows for an extended period, Reid recommended the following practices:
– Avoid cleaning windows when the sunlight is directly shining on them.
– Wipe off condensation water before it dries and leaves stains.
– Clean window frames and sills regularly.
– Avoid using excessive amounts of cleaning agents, as they often cause streaks on windows.
According to HowStuffWorks, using old newspapers to clean windows is a traditional cleaning method. The advantages include the low cost and easy availability of newspapers, which can be disposed of after use, eliminating the hassle of washing them. Additionally, newspapers are recyclable, reducing the burden on landfills.
As to why newspapers are effective in cleaning windows, it is speculated that the ink used in newspapers acts as a solvent, making it an efficient cleaning agent. The slightly rough texture of newspaper sheets also aids in removing dust and grime.
Moreover, many papers, such as magazine paper, are treated with a substance called sizing during manufacturing to enhance water resistance. In contrast, newspapers contain minimal sizing, making them highly absorbent and effective at absorbing ink and performing well when cleaning windows.
The website pointed out that overcast days are the best time to clean windows because sunlight on a sunny day can cause the cleaning agent to dry too quickly, resulting in streaks.
Previously, cleaning experts have noted that cleaning windows on sunny days is a common mistake. Other common errors include using the wrong cleaning agents, failing to remove dust before cleaning windows, and using hard water for window cleaning.
(Extended reading: Why Are Windows Dirty After Cleaning? Avoid These 5 Mistakes)