TechAvoid these window cleaning mistakes to keep your shine

Avoid these window cleaning mistakes to keep your shine

Have you already washed your windows for the holidays? If not, make sure to avoid a common mistake that could be impossible to fix later.

How to clean windows properly?
How to clean windows properly?
Images source: © Getty Images | Irina Gutyryak

The holidays are fast approaching, along with the tradition of washing windows, which has become a national custom. Many people, after years of routine, don’t give much thought to the cleaning agents they use. This oversight can significantly harm the condition of windows.

How to wash windows properly?

The typical cleaning routine is well-known: we start with the window frames and finish by polishing the glass. However, we often make serious mistakes by relying on methods from our family homes. What's the point of shiny windows if they lose their luster soon after?

Some people use strong, corrosive chemical agents. While effective, these are harmful to the frame surfaces because they are not meant for window cleaning. Commonly used products include bleaches, acetone, and cleaning creams applied with the rough side of sponges. Unfortunately, these can cause damage, harming plastic components and potentially affecting health.

These detergents do more than clean—they erode the surface. They often contain small granules, which are hard to notice. Using them with a rough sponge is a bad idea for cleaning windows. The initial shine is deceptive, and over time, the plastic loses its original structure.

What to remember when washing windows?
What to remember when washing windows?© Getty Images | Valeriy_G

Due to friction and chemical use, micro-scratches appear on the frames and sills. Over time, dust and dirt settle in these scratches, and repeated cleanings only deepen the damage, eventually leading to yellowing of the surface.

The best homemade methods for cleaning windows

Are you wondering what products are safe for windows while maintaining their charm? Natural agents are a great option. They can be quickly and economically prepared at home using ingredients typically found in your kitchen. Simply mix 1.5 cups of water with 1/3 cup of vinegar and add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Finally, add 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and mix well.

Alternatively, you can use a cleaning paste made from baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice to quickly restore the whiteness of plastic frames. Apply the mixture using a soft cloth, and the dirt will disappear. Finally, rinse the frames with water and dry them.

How to clean windows without streaks?

After cleaning the frames, it's time for the glass, which is often covered with dust and dirt. Cleaning them perfectly with standard methods without leaving streaks can be challenging. Vinegar mixed with water is an excellent substitute for conventional window cleaners, leaving the surface gleaming.

Related content