Whether you live in an area that gets significant rain or you simply want to give your windows a little polish as part of your cleaning routine, washing windows and keeping them clean may seem like a challenge. Cleaning solutions can often leave smudges or cause debris to stick to glass even more. Try the following effective strategies for getting your windows clean in Utah's hard water environment.
Prepare. Before you get started, make sure you're not working in direct sunlight. To prevent damage to the frames, remember to rinse and dry them immediately.
Prewash. Windows with significant dirt and grime must first be washed with soapy water. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap into a spray bottle with warm water. Dish soap can effectively remove grime and dirt without leaving any residue or film.
Wash. Next, wash your windows with a 1-to-1 solution of distilled vinegar and water. You can use a sponge or squeegee. On tough spots, use undiluted vinegar.
Wipe. For streak-free window glass, wipe windows with paper towels, newspaper, or microfiber cloth. Make sure you use lint-free material.
Apply water repellent. Once your windows are completely dry, you can apply a water-repellent solution to your windows. This solution can help keep your windows free of streaks and smudges for up to six months.
For the outdoor side of windows, spray the solution on the glass from about 1 1/2 feet away until you cover the entire glass area. Then wipe the windows with a paper towel or newspaper. To treat your windows inside, use a water-repellent solution that is rated for indoor use.
If you follow the steps above, you should only need to have to wash your windows once or twice a year so that you can enjoy beautiful views outside throughout the year.