Windows are the most important component of any home. However, dirt, dust, grime, water splatters, and stains accumulate over time on your windows, inside and out. This blocks the natural light, obstructs scenic views outside your house, and affects indoor air quality.
Therefore, cleaning window frames, glasses, sills, and tracks is important. It brings positive vibes to your property and improves its curb value, especially if you are living in a rental property. Most people use abrasive scrubbing tools or harsh chemicals to remove stubborn grime and leave scratches and streaks behind.
That's why it is important to avoid common mistakes when cleaning your windows so that you can maintain the overall look and feel of your abode.
This becomes even more crucial when you are at the end of your tenancy. Professionals usually include windows in
vacate cleaning Melbourne to help you pass the rental inspection.
If you are doing it yourself, avoid these 9 common window cleaning mistakes:
1. Cleaning Window on a Sunny Day
This is one of the most common mistakes you should avoid when washing your windows. Doing it on a sunny day will leave streaks behind. The water-based cleaner will dry onto the window panes quickly before you even wipe it off- leaving streaks behind.
What is the right Approach:
Washing your dirt-laden windows during late evenings or on a cloudy day is always good to avoid this issue.
2. Using a Solvent on the Top of Dust and Dirt
Are you doing the same mistake when sprucing up your windows? Spraying a liquid solvent on a dusty surface can make it look grimy and muddy. This will also make scrubbing difficult and messy.
The Right Technique:
Before applying a cleaning solution, remove dry dust, dirt, pollen, and allergens before applying a cleaning solution using a dry microfiber cloth or an old toothbrush for tracks. You can also use a handled vacuum with a brush attachment to get rid of dust.
This will prevent grime from turning into a muddy mess. A clean window can boost the look of your house and
increase energy efficiency by cutting utility consumption- all thanks to sunlight.
3. Using Chemically-Laden Cleaning Products
Applying harsh or chemical-based cleaning solvents on your window glass or panes could damage the finish and reduce strength. The worst part is that store-bought glass cleaners contain ammonia, phthalates and other toxic ingredients that can cause indoor pollution and lead to various health hazards, including cancer.
What is the Solution:
Use zero to less harmful cleaners that can make your windows shine without leaving toxic fumes in the air. Use vinegar to remove stubborn stains and grime. Dish soap, warm water and baking soda are also good options that can help you maintain clean windows. If you are at the end of your tenancy, look for
5 signs to hire cleaners for a thorough vacate cleaning Melbourne to secure your bond back
4. Scrubbing with Abrasive Tools
Using abrasive scrubbing tools to remove stubborn stains and grime from the window glass can leave scratches behind. Steel-based scrubbing tools or hard brushes can damage tints and cause more harm than good.
The Right Hack:
Instead, use a sponge or an old toothbrush to get rid of tough stains and grime. Let the vinegar break down the stains- making the scrubbing job easier.
5. Using Wrong Wiping Materials
You should never use lint-based cloths to wipe off your windows. Such materials leave fibres over the glass and make it difficult to remove.
Also, don’t use newspapers as it has ink that gets stuck on the glass and leaves toxins behind. It can also damage the glass finish.
What to Use?
You can use lint-free cleaning cloths, a microfiber cloth and a squeegee to get rid of excess water from the surface. You can buy these
cleaning products on Amazon under $15 and clean like a pro.
6. Spraying Too Much Cleaning Solvent
You could damage the glass and frames of your windows if you spray excess amounts of a cleaning solvent. It can also leave the surface sticky and attract dirt and allergens.
Solution:
Spray the solution slowly and wipe it off using a sponge or a microfiber cloth.
7. Neglecting Window Frames, Sills and Tracks
Most people forget to remove dirt and grime from window frames, tracks and sills. These can accumulate grime, grease and even mould that can pollute the indoor air quality. This may also
increase airborne dust and lead to various respiratory problems. Overlooking these tiny yet important spots can reduce the lifespan of your windows.
How to Rectify this Mistake:
Always vacuum your window tracks and apply a solvent. You can remove stubborn stains using a toothbrush. Frames and sills can be cleaned using a microfiber cloth and a sponge.
8. Not Using a Squeegee Properly
There is no denying that a squeegee is a perfect tool that can help you remove soap residue and excess water without leaving streaks behind. But, people commit a mistake by using the wrong technique, leaving streaks on the surface.
What is the Solution:
Always wipe the window glass from top to bottom using a rubber squeegee. After each stroke, wipe the blade of your tool and buff dry your panes. Professional vacate cleaners Melbourne follow the same technique to give you clean and streak-free windows.
9. Not Considering Safety Measures
Ignoring safety measures, especially when your windows are at a certain height can lead to injuries. Do not clean windows outside if they are not accessible.
The right approach
Use proper ladders and equipment to reach your windows and other hard-to-reach areas like sills or tracks. It is always better to hire professional window cleaners in Melbourne for a safe, quality and affordable service. They use
right methods to clean curtains and blinds to help you pass the rental inspection.
Endnote
Thus, you must avoid these silly mistakes when cleaning your windows. Use the right products and tools, consider safety measures and avoid chemically-laden solvents for better outcomes. Also, clean your windows on a cloudy day to achieve a streak-free glass surface.
