Window cleaning is a very important part of home maintenance, and it can also be one of the most frustrating! If you want to ensure that your windows look good and are completely free of stains and streaks after you’ve finished cleaning them – just keep reading!
In this article, we are going to be talking you through why streaks appear on windows after they have been cleaned, the best products to use to avoid the chances of them appearing, as well as a simple method that will have your windows squeaky clean and clear in no time at all.
Let’s begin!
Why Do Streaks Appear On Windows After Cleaning Them?
The main reason why people have trouble getting rid of those tell-tale streaks on their windows is that they use the wrong type of cleaner.
Most people believe that window cleaners only use water as their primary solvent, but, what most people don’t know is that window cleaners actually use various other types of solvents such as acetone, alcohol, and even ammonia.
These chemicals can leave unwanted residue across the surface of the windows after they have been cleaned and make the windows appear foggy and dirty.
With that being said, if you want to get clean your windows without having to deal with any of those nasty streaks on your windows after they have finished drying, then the first thing that you’re going to need to do is to choose a cleaning product that has a non-toxic formula and has been specifically designed for use on glass.
By doing so, not only will this mean that the cleaner you are using won’t damage the surface of the glass or the paintwork around the windows, but it will also mean that there will be a far less likely chance of strains and streaks appearing on the surface of your windows, as the cleaning agent will be compatible for use on your window glass.
In addition to the type of cleaning products that you are using to clean your windows, another reason why streaks and stains might appear across the surface of your windows after you have finished cleaning them could simply come down to the technique that is being used.
If you apply too much pressure while wiping, you may end up scratching the surface of your windows. Alternatively, if you use too little force, then you won’t be able to remove all the dirt and grime. This brings us to our next point!
How To Clean Your Windows Without Streaks: Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1
Start by using a soft cloth and warm water to wipe down all the surfaces of your window. This way, you can remove any dirt or dust that may have accumulated on them.
Step 2
Next up, use a window glass cleaner to give your windows a good shine. It’s important to make sure that you don’t overdo it with this step because if you do, you’ll end up leaving streaks on your windows.
Step 3
Once everything is done, dry off your windows with a window wiper. Start at one side of the window, and place the window wiper to the top of the window. Then, once you have done this, gently and firmly wipe downwards so that the water and cleaner are removed from the surface of the window.
Step 4
After you have done this, proceed to move across the window and repeat the process until all the water and window cleaner has been removed from the window.
To prevent any streaks from appearing on the window, make sure that you are not overlapping the sections that you clean (as this could cause smudging) while also making sure to firmly press the window wiper down on the glass to ensure that all product is removed.
Keep in mind, that depending on what type of cleaning product(s) you are using, you might need to tweak the above method in accordance with what you are using to clean your windows.
What Are The Best Cleaning Products To Use To Avoid Streaks?
You can easily remove dirt from your windows using vinegar. All you need to do is mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water. Then, spray the mixture onto your windows and let it dry naturally. The next day, wash off the residue with soap and water.
You can also use baking soda instead of vinegar. Mix one cup of baking soda with two cups of hot water. Spray this solution on your windows and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before washing it away with soap and water. This method works best when there are no leaves or other debris stuck to the windows.
Another option would be to use hydrogen peroxide. Simply mix three tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide with one gallon of water. Then, add five drops of dishwashing liquid. Finally, pour the mixture onto your windows until they’re completely covered.
Let it sit for about an hour before rinsing it off with soap and water. You can repeat this process every few days to keep your windows clean.
Another effective way of removing stains from your windows is by applying lemon juice. To do so, simply rub lemon juice on the stained area and allow it to dry. Once it’s dried, wipe it off with a soft cloth.
Final Thoughts
All in all, cleaning windows can be one of the hardest cleaning chores to do, especially when it comes to avoiding those pesky streaks and stains. But, if you want to avoid those tell-tale streaks on your windows, the tips, tricks, and methods that we have shared with you above should see you cleaning your windows as the pros do.
Still, if you really want to achieve a streak-free finish, you should invest in some professional-grade cleaners. These products will not only help you get rid of those annoying streaks but they will also leave your windows looking like new.
Thank you for reading this guide – we hope that it has been helpful in showing you how to clean your windows without leaving any telltale streaks behind after the water has finished drying!
