Clean your windows like a professional

In Summary

Cleaning windows does not have to be a hard chore to do, especially if you have the right equipment and know the techniques to use as Juliet Kigongo writes.

If there is one chore that seems to be hectic, I am pretty sure it would be cleaning windows. Some people hate cleaning windows because they think it is a time consuming task.
However, windows can bring the brightness back into your home if they are sparkling clean but it is a task most people do not look forward to thus leaving their homes looking dirty and unpleasant.
Phoina Namatovu, the proprietor of homecare cleaning agencies, says part of what makes window washing a hard chore is that homeowners insist on doing it with dry towels or newspaper and spray cleaner.
“All that rubbing is not a good idea,” says Namatovu. “You are just moving dirt around from one spot to another and putting scratches on the glass, which attracts dust and dirt. As soon as you finish, the window looks dirty again.”

What to use
Namatovu explains that it is easier and more effective to clean the glass window yourself just like the professionals do: With a sponge and a few other readily available tools. The techniques are not complicated, she says, and the results may surprise you.
She says you should at least have a large dry brush or broom handle for removing cobwebs and dust, bucket, sponge, window cleaning solution or vinegar, microfibre cloth, dry fur free cloth or drying cloth for cleaning windows in order to get a professional finish.
Namatovu adds, “Cleaning windows without even seeking assistance from professionals is very simple. It is not as though people do not know what cleaning is, it is the attitude which determines the choice you make. That is where you start.”

Preparations
She therefore explains that before you think of cleaning the windows, you should first inspect the house carefully and look for areas with heavy stains (rust, organic or mildew stains) these should be cleaned by hand first, or the stain may run onto adjacent surfaces when washed.
Remove any built up dust by removing any curtains or blinds and use a broom handle to brush around the window corners and window sill to eliminate any laying dust.

The process
She says warm soapy water will work well but the lesser the foam, the better. However, she warns that you should be careful when using strong window cleaning solutions that they do not damage surrounding paintwork.
Wipe off the excess water with a clean sponge, starting at the top of the window and work your way down for maximum efficiency. Regularly wipe the sponge edge clean with an old rag to avoid transferring the dirt around. Remove any remaining water from the glass with a damp, microfibre cloth. Finally dry the windowsill beneath where any water may have dripped down. Wash windows on a cloudy day.

Although direct sunlight makes it easier to see the dirt, it also dries the windows too quickly, leaving streaks on the glass. Make sure you pick a cloudy day for your cleaning session.
“Clean your windows at least once in a week it will make a truly surprising difference to your whole room by making it lighter and brighter. You will be surprised at how dirty your windows can get.”
Home remedy
You can also make your own cleaning solution by adding two tablespoons of vinegar to a small bucket of warm water. “This will also brighten up your window,” Namatovu asserts.
For really dirty or slippery windows, use two tablespoons of house of cooking oil and rinse with the vinegar solution above. Finish with a dry cloth.
When polishing the clean, dry glass, use a pad of crumpled newspaper. The printers’ ink will give your windows an extra sparkle.