12 Surprising Cleaning Mistakes That Ruin Your Window Shine Every Time

Most people think they know how to clean windows – after all, how hard can it be? But a lot of homeowners make mistakes in the process that leave their windows streaky and dull, usually leading to the need to re-clean the glass several times.

In this post, we’ll talk about some of the most common mistakes we can all make in cleaning the windows and give you some useful tips on how to get crystal-clear results without messing the glass or frames. Whether you’re getting ready for a seasonal deep clean or just want to brighten up your view, we will explain how to get that perfect shine.

So, if you want to:

• disinfect your windows properly;
• achieve streakless results;
• get as much natural light in your home as possible.

Then, this article is for you!

Working with the wrong tools

Many swear by the newspaper and cleaner method, and it may work for some. However, we do not recommend using newspapers and paper towels at all. Every newspaper is different in terms of paper type, as well as ink. Some of the unwanted side effects of washing your windows with newspaper can be colouring of the frames and inky residue on the panes.

Paper towels, on the other hand, leave unsightly lint on the glass. Substitute them with a lint-free cloth and a squeegee. This way you won’t colour your windows, and you won’t have to waste so many paper towels.

Not removing large dirt particles first

If you’re dealing with extremely dirty windows, you may need to plan two cleaning sessions in a row: one to dislodge the large dirt spots, such as bird droppings and insects and a second one to clean the windows. If you try washing everything in one go, you may end up with very smudged window panes.

So, always start by treating the bigger stains and areas with lots of accumulated dirt. Then, do a second cleaning for that perfect finish.

Scraping too hard

If you are dealing with etched dirt or paint stains, don’t rely only on a razor blade or a scraper. Sometimes you need to invest in a cleaning solution which deals with the specific type of dirt on your windows.

Before you purchase anything, consult with the manufacturer’s manual, because depending on the type of windows you have, you may do more damage than you think.

For example, laminated windows sometimes have “glass pickup”, i.e. imperfections, which can cause permanent damage if dislodged.

Applying the wrong detergent

The next common mistake we see very often is not using the proper cleaning solution. Remember, not all cleaning products can be applied to your windows. Even if you are tempted to use stronger chemicals, such as ammonia or bleach to remove more stubborn dirt marks, consult with the manufacturer’s guide before you proceed.

For example, bleach can permanently damage and discolour uPVC window frames. Opt for a specialised cleaning solution or switch to homemade detergents if possible.

Wiping with the wrong cloth

It is recommended to use microfibre cloths as they are made specifically for cleaning, including window washing, and they are less likely to stain the window frames. To keep them lint-free, just wash them without fabric softener.

Otherwise, you risk the small textile fibres to stick to the frames when you’re wiping the excess cleaning solution. If you don’t have microfibre cloths, you can also use old lint-free cotton rags.

Not changing the washing liquid

This seems obvious, but sometimes people try to wash all of their windows in one go without replacing the water and detergent mix frequently. Don’t forget that every time you rinse your squeegee or wipe with the microfibre cloth to remove the dirt on your scraper, all the dirt transfers to the window washing liquid.

Depending on how many windows you have and the amount of dirt, you may need to change your cleaning solution quite a few times. It’s best to do it; otherwise, you will just be transferring dirt back onto the glass, making your windows look worse.

Adding too much detergent

Oftentimes, we try to apply more washing product to the cleaning mix in the hopes of removing the stubborn grime faster. However, this is not advisable because you’re only wasting products and increasing the chances of making more streaks on your window panes.

That’s why it is very important to know the appropriate detergent for your windows and how best to dilute it.

Not cleaning the frames before you wash the panes

Many people tend to forget about the frames during the cleaning session until they’ve made the glass panes spotless, and a lightbulb moment occurs. Always start cleaning the windows by hoovering the cobwebs and large dust particles. Then move onto the frames and sills, and finish the cleaning session by washing the panes.

Cleaning on a hot and sunny day

This tip might not seem so obvious at first. Usually, people wait for a sunny day to finish all their outside or garden-related tasks. It makes sense, no one wants to work when it’s drizzling, or there is a chance of a rainstorm. But if you have window cleaning to do, leave it for an overcast day.

The main reason a cloudy day is the best time to do it is because your detergent won’t dry as soon as you apply it to the window pane. You will have enough time to scrub the glass and scrape the dirt and excess product. This is one way to avoid having streaky windows.

Not washing in sections

Another way to avoid leaving streaks on your windows is to clean your windows in sections. This means you shouldn’t soak all the windows at the same time because, again, the detergent will dry very quickly and you won’t have enough time to scrape the grime off. What’s more, if the windows are extremely dirty, you may make cleaning them more difficult as the dirt can get etched on the glass.

Not using ladder pads

Regardless of the job at hand, be it window cleaning or hanging something on the wall, it is recommended that you use ladder pads. Not only do they protect you from slipping and injuring yourself, but they are also a good way to protect the surface you use for support.

In case you have hard-to-reach windows, don’t try to act like a hero and call a professional. Safety comes first!

Forgetting to wash your tools after a cleaning session

Almost no one wants to continue tidying up after a long day of cleaning, but it’s important to wash and dry your equipment after each session. This way, you won’t have to change your tools so often, and you’ll avoid smearing old dirt next time you clean your house.

Also, if you don’t dry your squeegee and cloths properly, you risk black mould forming on your tools.

Why is it important to clean your windows regularly?

Many of us leave window cleaning at the bottom of our cleaning to-do lists because it usually takes a lot of time to complete, and you don’t feel like doing anything after you’ve cleaned most of your home. Let alone clean something else. And to be honest, that’s why sometimes we “forget” about the task completely.

However, washing your windows is very important as they gather much of the dirt floating around and then transfer it inside your home. This is especially true during the winter months. How does this happen?

Well, when closed, your windows protect you not only from rain, but also from small and big dust particles, car exhaust fumes, pollen, insects, bird droppings, etc. All of these stick to the window screens or outside windows, and if not cleaned regularly, they can get etched on the glass itself. What’s more, once you open the windows to air out your room, some of this dirt gets into your home.

Just as much as you need to ventilate inside your house and routinely clean the dust inside, you also need to regularly wash your windows to prolong the effects of your cleaning efforts.

Is window cleaning your least favourite chore? No problem, just get in touch with a cleaning expert

Window cleaning is not a simple job because there are so many things you need to take into account to achieve streakless results. Instead of taking on the additional stress, why not get help from an experienced cleaner?

Fantastic Services offers efficient and contactless facade window cleaning service, which guarantees spotless results and is completely safe for your family. So, enjoy your free time at home and let the professionals take care of those dirty windows.

Takeaways

• Avoid washing your windows on a sunny and hot day;
• Always clean your equipment after you’ve finished cleaning your windows;
• Check the manufacturer’s guidelines to make sure you’re using the correct tools and products;
• Start by cleaning the frames first, then move on to the glass panes;
• Don’t forget – safety first! If you have hard-to-reach windows, consult with a professional.

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Image source: Pixabay / falco