Windows let the golden sunlight in and allow you to relish the external landscape from the comfort of your couch.
However, seeing streaks or smears clouding your view is annoying. And sometimes, no matter how hard you try to keep the glass spotless, it seems to get smudged overnight.
Those puzzling smudges do indeed have a culprit behind them. Below, we will discuss the most common reasons behind them and how to deal with them to keep your windows crystal clear.
What Causes Window Smudges?
Knowing what causes those unsightly marks is the only way to deal with them correctly. Without you even realising it, several things can lead to streaks, smudges, and dirt buildup.
Poor Cleaning Techniques
Your cleaning efforts can yield the opposite results if you use incorrect methods. Wiping the glass quickly with any old cloth, for example, can leave behind smears.
Similarly, wiping in various directions could spread existing smudges even further and using paper towels can leave fibres behind.
What time you clean also matters. Many people prefer to polish glass surfaces on sunny days, assuming that the sunlight will hasten their drying time.
Direct sunshine can actually promote the formation of streaks by drying cleaning agents too rapidly.
Greasy Fingerprints
Between adults letting fresh air in and children with sticky fingers trying to pry at the neighbours, grease and oils from our skin readily transfer to the glass.
These kinds of stains are an eyesore, and the sun will only emphasise the smudges when it shines through.
You must be careful with heavily used fixtures, such as patio sliding doors and living room windows. Otherwise, fingerprints will quickly resurface, even after a rigorous cleaning session.
Pollution and Grime from the Outside
External elements, like car exhaust, dust, and pollen, can rapidly cover your windows, whether you live near a busy street or in a suburb.
Along with the dirt, the accumulation of outdoor pollutants and grime can create stubborn smudges that seem to manifest out of the blue.
This type of film makes windows look drab and hazy, especially in seasons when the air usually carries more dust and pollen.
The Right Tools for Cleaning Windows
Having the right instruments is crucial. Cleaning glass surfaces is an art, and you cannot create a masterpiece without decent brushes, right?
These easily available items will completely transform your cleaning routine.
Microfibre Cloths
A microfibre towel is one of the most effective tools for window washing. These silky, lint-free cloths absorb water and cleaning solutions without leaving any droplets or fibres behind.
They are a must-have in your cleaning cabinet in general. Besides wiping off stains and smudges, they also do a fantastic job of removing dust and filth from hard surfaces.
Squeegee
You are missing out if you do not already own a squeegee. These simple instruments are perfect for removing excess water and stopping streaks from developing on glass surfaces.
A squeegee will leave your windows sparkling with little effort. Just be sure to start at the top and work your way down in even strokes.
Commercial Window Cleaners vs. Homemade Solutions
Many people use store-bought window cleaners. Though they are reasonably effective, you don’t always need a fancy product to accomplish the task.
A basic water and vinegar solution will work miracles on all sorts of surfaces. Vinegar cuts through grease, leaving a sparkly finish behind. Adding a few drops of dish soap to the mixture will help with more difficult or hardened dirt.
Techniques for a Smudge-Free Shine
Whether you choose a specialised cleaning solution or a homemade concoction, your technique is what really matters.
Wipe in a “Z” or “S” Shape
Wiping in a “Z” or “S” pattern instead of sweeping in circles or haphazard lines makes all the difference. This ensures that you are covering the whole surface evenly and helps prevent the cleaning solution from settling in one spot.
It’s also a smart way to avoid repeated motions over a particular spot, as it tends to create streaks.
Do Not Forget the Frames and Sills
Crystal clear glass does not necessarily make a window clean. The frames and sills deserve some love, too.
So, wipe them down with a damp towel before you get started on the glass to avoid dragging dirt onto the windowpane.
Be Mindful of the Weather
Cleaning your windows on sunny days is not a good idea. The natural heat and direct sunlight can cause the cleaning agents to dry too quickly, leaving smears behind.
Instead, try to wash your windows on cloudy days or during periods when the sun is not shining directly on them.
When to Use Specialised Cleaners
Expertly trained window cleaners will sweep in and save the day if you cannot restore your windows with conventional methods. Look up window cleaners near me for some qualified options, and save yourself the hassle of DIY work.
Using industry-grade tools, professional window cleaning services will leave your windows so spotless that you will have to look twice to make sure the glass is still there.
Furthermore, they can address those inaccessible areas you cannot reach on your own, such as skylights or high-up windows.
Professional cleaners not only possess the necessary gear, but they also know the secrets to keeping streaks and smudges from forming. As a result, they will leave your windowpanes glistening long after they are done.
Plus, if you do not have time to clean regularly, they can provide routine services, allowing you to enjoy a smudge-free view all year long.
Keeping Windows Clean for Longer
Maintaining streak-free shine takes a little upkeep.
It goes without saying that the more frequently you polish your glass surfaces, the less likely you are to struggle with tough stains.
A quick wipe-down once a week goes a long way in preventing grime build-up and simplifying deep cleaning sessions.
Another basic but important precaution is to try not to touch the windowpanes themselves to avoid greasy fingerprints altogether. Ask other members of your household to use the frame or window handles instead. This simple habit will have a major impact.
Conclusion
Clean windows make a world of difference in the appearance and feel of your house.
Though dealing with smudges regularly can be annoying, half the battle is knowing their causes and how to handle them successfully.
Keeping those windows sparkling is totally doable with these DIY tips and a little consistent upkeep.
As long as you have the right tools, you will know what to do the next time you find a smudge on your bay window.