Window cleaning should be a part of your regular home maintenance routine. When done correctly, it can leave your windows sparkling clean without streaks.
Start by scrubbing your windows with a brush or sponge and applying cleaner. After that, rinse off the soapy water with a squeegee. Tip the squeegee so that only one corner contacts the glass and begin with horizontal strokes.
1. It Makes Your Home Look Better
You’ll notice a difference right away when your home’s windows are clean. Aside from a spotless view, a good cleaning removes streaks and smears that can make your house look dingy or unkempt. It’s also a way to improve your curb appeal for any guests who come by your house.
While you’re cleaning, be sure to take time to wipe down the frames and sills of your windows, too. These areas can become dirty quickly, especially if they’re near a door or window that opens and closes frequently. You can also use a hose or spray bottle to lightly spray the windows before wiping them down to help get rid of any heavy buildup.
Once you’re done, give your windows a final rinse to ensure there are no water marks or spots left behind. If you have a squeegee, start at the top of the window and work your way down to create a smooth finish. Then, dry the window with a micro-fibre cloth to eliminate any water spots or smears.
If you’re moving into a new house or apartment, it’s a good idea to do a thorough cleaning of your windows before you start to move furniture in. This will remove any dirt, grime and residue from previous owners that may have accumulated on your windows. It will also make your new house feel like your own and give it a fresh start.
Window cleaning can be a tricky task, and it’s important to do it regularly to keep your home looking its best. If you’re not comfortable cleaning your windows, or you simply don’t have the time, hiring a professional cleaning service is a great option. Professional cleaners are trained and skilled at cleaning windows, and they have the necessary equipment to get the job done properly.
Dirty windows not only look unattractive, they can be a safety hazard in an emergency situation. If your windows are covered in dust, it can be difficult to open them and escape a fire or other disaster. Keeping your windows clean can prevent clogged channels and painted sashes that can hinder egress, and it can save you the expense of expensive replacements later.
2. It Reduces Allergens
For those who suffer from allergies or respiratory conditions, clean windows provide significant benefits. When dust, pollen, and pet dander build up on window frames and sills, it can trigger symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes. These substances are released into the air when the window is opened, and regular cleaning removes them and reduces allergen levels inside your home.
If you have a window with a screen, make sure to remove the screen and wipe it thoroughly before starting the cleaning process. Otherwise, it’s likely that the dust and dirt from the screen will be swept into the cleaner and back onto the glass. Then, you’ll have to repeat the cleaning process all over again.
During window cleaning, it’s best to wear gloves and a face mask to minimize exposure to allergens. It’s also a good idea to close the windows and doors, so that the dander doesn’t enter the house while you’re cleaning. Lastly, it’s important to use a mild, natural cleaner that doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals. A simple vinegar and water solution is often enough to effectively clean glass without leaving any streaks.
Another reason to regularly clean your windows is that it can prevent the growth of mold and other contaminants. Mold thrives in dark areas where condensation and humidity collect, such as on window sills and frames. If left unchecked, it can spread to the rest of your house and create an unhealthy living environment. Regular window cleaning prevents the accumulation of moisture and organic materials that can lead to mold growth, as well as removing any existing mold.
In addition, clean windows let more sunlight into your home, which can improve your mood and increase energy levels. Dirty windows, on the other hand, obstruct sunlight from entering your space and can make a room feel dimmer and gloomier. This is why it’s a great idea to hire a professional cleaning company to clean your windows on a regular basis. They have the experience, tools, and knowledge to effectively clean your windows while reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality.
3. It Prevents Water Damage
The dirt that accumulates on windows and window sills can cause water spots if the glass is not properly cleaned. These spots can be unsightly and may leave behind a film that attracts more dirt, making the problem worse. If the dirt is not removed from the surface, it can etch the glass, reducing its transparency and durability over time.
Regular cleaning with a non-ammonia cleaner, followed by a squeegee, is the best way to prevent water spots. Avoid abrasive sponges and scrubbers, which can damage the glass surface. It is also important to dry the windows after each cleaning. A few minutes of drying with a lint-free cloth can prevent streaks.
Water spots can be caused by hard water or residual cleaning solutions that are not rinsed off the glass. If you have hard water, a mineral deposit remover will help eliminate the spots. You can buy these products at hardware and home improvement stores. Another option is to mix rubbing alcohol and water on a soft cloth and rub it gently on the windows. This solution may also remove mild water spots.
Dirty windows allow moisture to linger inside, which can lead to mold and other health problems for those who live in the home. Moisture trapped in cracks and crevices can also encourage insect infestations, as wasps, bees, spiders, and ants all find warm and moist areas to build nests. Regular window cleaning helps to keep the interior of the home clean and free of harmful allergens and insects.
In addition to preventing water spots, regularly cleaning your windows can improve the view and light in the home. When you are able to look out of your windows, it gives you a sense of freedom and a connection with the outdoors that is often missing in our busy lives.
If you’re hiring a professional to clean your windows, make sure they use non-abrasive brushes and a non-ammonia cleaning solution. Abrasive brushes and chemicals can scratch the glass surface, destroying its clarity and durability over time. They should also use a squeegee that is in good condition to remove excess water and create a smooth finish. It’s also a good idea to have a spotter or assistant on hand to help ensure that the work is done correctly and safely.
4. It Prevents Sun Damage
Clean windows allow natural light to enter the home, making your living spaces more cheerful and bright. Dirty windows, on the other hand, allow less light to shine through and may make rooms appear darker and dingier. This is especially true of older windows that have been neglected over time.
Regular window cleaning prevents dust, dirt, pollen, and other environmental contaminants from accumulating on the glass surface. These substances can be abrasive to the window glass, causing scratches and other damage that affect its appearance and functionality. It’s also possible for these substances to build up and impact the health of family members by triggering allergies and respiratory issues.
When cleaning your windows, use a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe away any loose debris. This step is especially important if you use an ammonia-based or bleach-based cleaner, as these harsh chemicals can etch and scratch the windows. You should also avoid using cleaning solutions that contain abrasive ingredients or strong chemical odors, as these can be irritating to the skin and nose.
Lastly, you should try to clean your windows when it is not directly sunny. This is because the sun’s rays can cause the cleaning solution to evaporate quickly, leaving behind streaks and spots on the window glass. It is recommended to instead clean your windows on a cloudy day or in the morning or evening when the sun’s intensity is lower.
In addition to the above reasons, another important benefit of cleaning windows is that it helps to prevent insects and pests from invading your home. Spiders and wasps often find shelter in cluttered and dirty windows, which they use as platforms from which to build webs and catch their insect prey. Window cleaning can help to remove these nests and discourage spiders from settling in your home, which will also improve the aesthetic of your home’s exterior.
If you’re looking for an affordable and efficient way to clean your windows, consider investing in a professional window cleaning service. These professionals have access to specialized cleaning equipment and products that can quickly and efficiently clean even the dirtiest of windows. They also understand the best ways to clean different types of window surfaces, including frames and sills, as well as how to properly dry your windows so that they are free from streaks and smudges.