To effectively clean glass without streaks, you need to first remove from frames, the use a vinegar and water solution with a few drops of dish washing liquid in warm water. Apply it with a microfibre cloth across the full surface of the pane of glass. Use a squeegee to remove the cleaning solution, wiping the rubber edge between strokes and overlapping each pass slightly. Finally, use a dry microfiber cloth or newspaper to buff the edges and any remaining spots of water.
Materials You’ll Need
- Microfiber cloths
- Squeegee
- Bucket
- Homemade glass cleaner (e.g., equal parts white vinegar and water)
- Or mild dish soap and warm water
- Soft brush or sponge
- Old newspaper (optional for drying)
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- 1. Prepare the Window: Start by removing any loose dust or debris from the window frame, tracks, and sill with a soft brush or cloth.
- 2. Make Your Solution:Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water in a bucket or spray bottle.Alternatively, add a few drops of non-abrasive dish soap to a bucket of warm water.
- 3. Wash the Window: Wet the window surface thoroughly with your chosen cleaning solution. Scrub the glass with a soft cloth or sponge, paying attention to stubborn spots.
- 4. Squeegee the Glass: With the rubber blade of your squeegee, begin at an upper corner and pull it down in a straight, vertical stroke.
- 5. Clean the Blade:After each stroke, wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with a clean sponge or lint-free cloth to remove residue.
- 6. Repeat and Overlap: Return to the top of the window and repeat the squeegeeing process, slightly overlapping each previous stroke to ensure complete coverage.
- 7. Dry the Edges: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or a piece of old newspaper to wipe the edges and corners of the window.
- 8. Inspect for Streaks: Step back and inspect the window for any remaining streaks or spots. Buff these out with a clean, dry cloth.
Key Tips for a Streak-Free Finish
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Clean windows on a cloudy day, as direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leading to streaks.
- Use Microfiber: Microfibre cloths are absorbent and lint-free, making them ideal for wiping and buffing glass without leaving streaks or lint.
- Don’t Use Abrasives: Avoid razor blades, abrasive cleaners, or scouring pads, as they can scratch and permanently damage the glass surface.
- Minimize Soap: Using too much dish soap can leave a streaky residue, so use only a few drops – test on one window first.
- Work Quickly: The faster you work to dry the window after washing, the less chance there is of streaks forming.
Our next article will be on the different types of glass, what the differences are and the best use for each is.
If you live in Sydney, and have a broken shower screen or cracked window that needs replacing, the blogging team have had a long relationship with Willoughby Glass and recommend them to readers to do these repairs for you or even install a pet door in a glass door!
For more information on Willoughby Glass and their extensive range of glazing services, visit their website here: https://www.willoughbyglass.com.au or call them on +61 (02) 9882 3648
