Sunday, 15 December 2013

Window cleaning tips

By Francis Leon


What makes my windows so dirty?

Because homes nowadays are so well-sealed, much of the dust, pollen, and general dirt, which would once have escaped to the outside, now remain indoors. It's a good idea to check the filters on equipment such as central heating boilers, air conditioners, and tumble-dryers, to reduce as far as possible the amount of dirt circulating in the indoor atmosphere.

Materials for cleaning

Black-and-white newspaper is a traditional and highly effective window-cleaning material. Household rags are another cheap alternative to cloths and sponges. There are plenty of inexpensive cleaners which can be used as an alternative to pricy branded products. Tried and trusted examples include liquid detergent, bleach, ammonia, surgical spirit, vinegar, and laundry detergent.

Getting glass clean

Washing windows on a warm and sunny day can cause problems if the cleaning solution dries too quickly, as it will leave water marks. A really shiny finish involves eliminating every trace of dirt and grease, but also avoiding leaving streaks and fluff. Most proprietary cleaners contain alcohol or vinegar, and a home-made cleaning solution also works best if made the same way. Newspaper is effective because it doesn't leave bits behind, and works well with vinegar for a final polish.

Really dirty windows

A two-stage process may be necessary where there is a heavy build-up of dirt. Use a scraper on marks such as bird droppings, and a soap and water solution to get rid of the worst layer. Then change to a clean cloth and a solution of vinegar and water in equal parts.

Window frames

Start window cleaning with the frames if they have become dirty. Use a brush to remove loose dirt, and then a cloth with a solution of detergent or soap in water.

Window sills

Soap and water are also effective on window sills, but it may be necessary to finish with a stronger solvent if there are still marks visible. Dirt tends to accumulate in the corners of window sills, and an old toothbrush and cotton buds can be useful for removing it. It will be easier to clean the window sill in future if you apply a thin layer of floor wax.

Mould

Window frames and sills tend to attract mould because of the condensation that forms on them. The black stains it leaves can be cleaned off with a solution of soap and bleach in water, and bleach will also help to prevent mould reforming.

Take care!

Household accidents often occur during window cleaning. Don't climb on furniture to reach windows, and only use ladders and steps if they are properly sited. Wear gloves when handling strong chemicals such as bleach. Don't mix chemical agents such as ammonia and bleach, and follow the instructions carefully when using branded products.




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