‘Adds extra sparkle!’ Homemade window cleaning solution to remove ‘stubborn streaks’

'Clean It, Fix It' viewers amazed at window cleaning hack

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Over time, grime and pollution accumulate on windows, which can look unsightly and unhygienic. To make the most of your view and to keep your light-loving houseplants happy, washing windows should be at the top of your cleaning chores. Here’s how to get crystal clear panes and the best finish for your windows.

Cleaning windows doesn’t need to be an annoying chore with this easy four-step process that will ensure your windows look sparkling and streak-free.

Remove curtains and blinds

The first step to doing a deep window cleaning treatment is taking down curtains and blinds to prevent dirt and dust from falling.

This also offers the perfect opportunity to give your curtains a clean to freshen them up.

Ivan Ivanov at End of Tenancy London explained: “Not only do you want to avoid damage to them, but you’ll also want the full window exposed to properly clean all of it.”

Homeowners can clean most curtains in a washing machine, just make sure to check the label to ensure they go on the right cycle. Rinse curtains with cold water before putting them through the wash.

To clean blinds (fabric or wood) gently use a vacuum to remove all traces of dust. Use a damp cloth to wipe over the fixtures and fittings to remove any signs of dirt.

Sweep away dust and dirt

Before you start cleaning the glass it’s important to tackle the dust because if you disturb dust after you’ve washed the windows it will stick to the panes of glass, undoing all your hard work.

Sweep dirt, dust, and any cobwebs from the window frame and the window sills using a dry brush or your vacuum’s dusting attachment. This prevents dirt from becoming a muddy mess when it gets mixed with a cleaner.

Adam Pawson, at window specialists Safestyle UK, advised: “Smears on windows can be very frustrating and ruin the appearance of your property but there are plenty of ways to ensure that they disappear.

“Most importantly, make sure that you’re using a microfibre or paper cloth to remove any dust before you begin.”

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Mix up a natural cleaning solution

After dusting, it’s time to start cleaning from the inside out. You can buy window cleaning products from your local store that offer a streak-free finish, or try out a homemade natural solution which produces the same sparkling finish.

Adam advised: “I’d recommend using a spray consisting of one part distilled white vinegar to 10 parts warm water which can be applied directly to a cloth before being rubbed evenly against the glass.

“To add a bit of extra sparkle, sprinkle some baking soda onto the cloth before you add the solution and it will aid the cleaning process.

“If you have stubborn streaks which don’t seem to disappear, try going over the area with clean water to help remove any of the remaining solutions.”

Homemade cleaning solutions (most of which simply require vinegar or baking soda) are ideal for other cleaning jobs around the house too, such as removing toilet limescale, cleaning ovens and even descaling kettles.

Clean the glass panes

Now it’s time to tackle the main attraction, the glass panes. Begin by putting something like a large bath towel or old sheet underneath the window to catch the spills.

Spritz the window thoroughly with your solution, or simply put a few drops of liquid soap in a bucket full of cool, clean water.

Obtaining a streak-free finish is the aim of the game here. Luckily, there are a few simple tricks you use to ensure a flawless result.

Using a clean sponge or microfibre cloth, start wiping from the top of the window all the way to the bottom. When cleaning ensure you’re working in an S-shape to help you get into every corner and avoid smears.

Using a squeegee will also give you a streak-free finish. Ensure you’re working in an S-shape, too, and regularly wipe the squeegee blade using a clean rag so that you don’t smear dirt around.

Finally, wipe off the remaining water with a microfibre cloth or damp chamois and dry the window sill.

Avoid using cloths or paper towels that might leave fibres on the glass.

Use a clean, lint-free towel to dry the window entirely. If dirt or streaks are still visible, spray and dry again.

A top tip is to use newspaper to dry the windows – the absorbency will ensure no moisture is left on the window to produce a streak-free finish.

Ivan said: “Using old newspaper is an old wife’s tale, but it actually works.

“Dry your windows with scrunched-up balls of it. It does a great job of drying your window while also alleviating smears.”

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