Are you disappointed that your windows don’t look as dazzling and clean as you hoped, despite your best efforts? If you’re having difficulty getting the job done, odds are there may be mistakes that you’re making.
To make sure that doesn’t case, here are some of the more common cleaning mistakes that you should try to avoid:
- Cleaning windows using a newspaper
While it is true that newspapers can help you to easily clean your windows – it doesn’t always hold true. Instead, it depends on the type of paper and ink that is used in the newspaper.
If it is the wrong type, cleaning windows using a newspaper won’t help – and it could actually stain your windows. Instead of taking the risk, you should use a microfiber cloth to play it safe.
- Working on a hot and sunny day
Sunny days are not ideal for cleaning windows. If it is hot and sunny the liquid will dry quickly, and cause streaks on your window. It would be better if you clean your window on a cool day that is cloudy or overcast.
- Scraping windows with too much force
Using a scraper is a good way to remove debris that is stuck on your window. However you should always be careful that you don’t use too much force – or you could scratch the glass.
That is especially true if your window scraper is old, and maybe uneven or damaged.
- Starting from the center
Beginners often make the mistake of starting to clean windows from the center and then working their way outwards. Unfortunately, that just doubles their work, as the water will run down the window and onto areas that you’ve already cleaned.
The correct way to clean windows is to start from the top and work your way downwards systematically.
- Using the wrong cleaning solution
It may be tempting to use strong chemical cleaning solutions that seem to help get rid of dirt on your windows much more easily. However in the long term that may end up damaging your windows, and could even attract more dust.
All you really need is soap and water, or normal glass cleaning liquids. If you want to DIY your own cleaning solution you could just mix one part water with one part vinegar and that would do the trick.
- Not looking at windows from different angles
Have you ever cleaned a window and felt that it looks pristine, and noticed days later that there were ugly streaks on it? That is probably because initially, the streaks weren’t visible from the angle you were looking from.
The best way around this problem is to get into the habit of inspecting your windows from multiple angles. It may take a bit more time, but in the long run, it is better than having to clean your windows again not long afterward.
In addition to avoiding these mistakes, you should also make sure that you have the right window cleaning equipment. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, but a microfiber cloth, squeegee, and window scraper can go a long way.
Initially, you may need to constantly remind yourself to avoid the mistakes listed above. However in time, you’ll find that it becomes habitual, and you no longer need to.
