how replacement windows can benefit your home

If you like having your home's windows sparkling clean, you may hate how some commercial cleaners leave dirt and streaks even after you have washed them. If so, use the following three-step guide to using homemade cleaners that will leave your windows streak-free.

Step 1:  Use Undiluted Vinegar On Greasy Spots

The first step involves spot cleaning any greasy spots on your windows, including fingerprints and noseprints caused by your animals. White distilled vinegar is used at full strength because it is effective at cutting through oils.

Pour a small amount of vinegar on a dry, lint-free cloth. Cloth diapers work well for this purpose. Spread the vinegar over the spot and let it remain for five minutes. This will give it time to break up the grease and oil.

After the time has passed, use a clean, damp cloth to rub the greasy area. This will get the worst of the grime out in preparation for the next step.

Step 2:  Clean The Windows With A Homemade Cleaner

After spot cleaning your windows, use a homemade cleaner made from borax laundry additive and cornstarch to thoroughly wash the windows. The borax provides a strong cleaner while the cornstarch gives the mixture a mild abrasive quality.

When selecting your ingredients, do not confuse boric acid with the borax. Boric acid is caustic and could cause chemical burns on your skin.

In a small bucket, mix together two cups of hot tap water, three tablespoons of cornstarch, and two tablespoons of borax. Soak a clean cloth diaper or chamois cloth, then wet the window's entire surface.

Once the glass is wet, use the cloth to scrub the window. Use small, circular motions that overlap to ensure you clean every spot on the glass. Allow the cleaner to set for five minutes to ensure the ingredients have time to cut through any remaining grime or grease.

After you have given the cleaner time to work, empty the bucket and fill it with clean, hot water. Use a clean cloth to rinse and wipe off the cleaner. You may need to wipe the glass two or three times to remove it entirely.

Once you have rinsed the window, dry it with another clean diaper or chamois cloth. Then, use a squeegee to remove any residual moisture or cleaner. Wipe the squeegee clean, then go on to the next step.

Step 3:  Shine The Glass Using Vinegar And Distilled Water

Now that you have cleaned the window, it is time to give it a streak-free shine. This is done using a vinegar and water solution.

Distilled water is used for this step because it does not contain the mineral deposits and heavy metals that tap water often contains. When it evaporates and the glass dries, there will be no residual left on the glass, keeping it from being dull and streaky.

In a small bucket, mix together a cup each of vinegar and distilled water. Use a soft, lint-free chamois cloth to wipe the solution onto the glass.

Use a second chamois cloth to dry the glass. Wipe the window horizontally then vertically to dry. Then, wipe the window once again with the vinegar solution and repeat wiping. This will ensure any residue is removed that could cause streaking.

After you have wiped the window, use a squeegee to fully remove any moisture.

The above homemade cleaners are safe to use on any of your windows. However, if you have too many windows and need help keeping them all clean, you may want to contact a home window washing service to discuss their various options.