Besides chemical cleaning agents, there are also some low-cost natural cleaning agents that can be used to clean windows, including onions commonly found in many kitchens. An expert says that wiping windows with onions can make them sparkling clean.
According to the UK’s Daily Express, Heath Showman, the founder of Lifestyle Blinds, a blinds and curtains specialty store, stated that onions are a “secret weapon” that can make windows exceptionally clean. He recommends cutting an onion in half and using it to wipe the windows, resulting in a clean and spotless appearance without leaving stains.
Showman explained how this simple onion trick works wonders. He said, “It’s a surprisingly effective traditional cleaning tip that is very simple to do.”
He added, “Simply cut an onion in half and use the cut side to wipe the windows, paying special attention to stubborn stains. Let the onion juice sit on the windows for about a minute to help soften the remaining stains. Then, wipe the windows clean with a damp cloth and finally dry the glass with a microfiber cloth to achieve bright and clean windows without any streaks.”
While onions may not replace thorough window cleaning, Showman emphasized that they are an economical and practical alternative for removing everyday stains and maintaining bright glass between deep cleanings.
If you’re not a fan of using onions, you can opt for other alternatives such as vinegar and old newspapers.
Allan Reid, the founder of Art Windows and Doors, a door and window supplier, stated that the effectiveness of this traditional method is surprisingly good. It doesn’t leave annoying lint crumbs and makes the glass look exceptionally bright.
When cleaning windows, it’s important to avoid common mistakes to ensure your efforts are not in vain. Here are a few common errors identified by the Good Housekeeping website:
– Cleaning windows on a sunny day: Carolyn Forte, director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care and Cleaning Lab, suggests that cleaning windows on overcast days is the best option. Cleaning solutions can dry quickly on hot glass in the sun, leaving difficult-to-remove streaks.
– Not removing dirt and dust before spraying a cleaner: Use a handheld vacuum, quality brush, or vacuum attachment to remove dirt from window frames before spraying a cleaner to prevent smearing dirt.
– Drying windows with old cotton cloths: Forte recommends using reusable microfiber cloths to dry windows. They absorb water well, can be cleaned, and leave glass shiny without streaks.
– Using a squeegee: Forte generally avoids using a squeegee, especially on small windows, as water can easily spill onto the floor when pulling it down. However, for large picture windows, it can be useful.
– Cleaning all windows in one day: Forte suggests cleaning windows once or twice a year. Work becomes easier if done room by room.
She recommends wiping windows horizontally on one side and vertically on the other. This way, any streaks can be easily identified as being on the inside or outside of the window.