The post will show you how to clean windows with vinegar in 3 easy steps.
I have followed the steps to clean windows for my customers who like eco-friendly cleaning solutions. When I finished my window cleaning task, I got a 98% actionable result. So, if you follow the steps, you will have streak-free windows in a few minutes.
Why Use Vinegar?
There are several reasons to use vinegar to clean windows.
- Vinegar is an effective natural cleaner for cutting through grease and grime without harsh chemicals.
- The acidic nature of vinegar makes it a powerful cleaning solution, breaking down dirt and grime.
- It can be mixed with equal parts water to clean windows inside and out for best results.
How to Make Homemade Window Cleaner with Water and White Vinegar
Creating a homemade window cleaner with water and white vinegar is incredibly simple and cost-effective. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup distilled water (optional: add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance)
Ratio:
The ideal ratio for homemade window cleaner is a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water. However, you can adjust this ratio slightly depending on your needs. For example, you can use a somewhat higher vinegar concentration if your windows are filthy.
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, mix the vinegar and water.
- Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil.it is optional
- Shake well to mix the solution thoroughly.
- homemade window cleaner is ready to use!
Pro Tips:
- Use distilled water to prevent mineral streaks on your windows.
- For extra cleaning power, add a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol to the solution.
- Keep the cleaner in a dark, cool place.
What will you need to clean Windows with?
- Spray Bottle
- White vinegar
- Distilled water
- Dish soap (optional)
- essential oil (optional)
- Funnel for easier pouring (optional)
- Microfiber towels, newspaper or lint-free cloths
- Squeegee
How to clean windows with vinegar in 3 simple steps
Cleaning windows with vinegar is a simple and inexpensive way to get a crystal-clear glass. In the section below, we have shown you how to clean windows using vinegar in just three easy steps: mixing a solution, washing the windows, and drying for streak-free results.
Step 1 – Clean Dust from windows
Prepping Your Windows for a Sparkling Clean
HENRY’S SERVICES CO cleaning expert, says, “Before you dive into the actual cleaning, prep your windows by removing any dust, dirt, or debris that might scratch the glass during the cleaning process. It is just like prepping your floor before mopping for optimal results.”
He says, “Grab the feather duster and gently wipe away any excess pet hair, dust, or buildup from the window frames,” It will prevent these particles from being smeared across the glass during cleaning. Remember, a clean surface leads to a cleaner outcome.”
Remember to dust the windowsill as well, paying particular attention to any cobwebs lurking in the corners. Prepping your windows will ensure a more thorough and efficient cleaning process.
Step 2 – Spray the glass window with Water and White Vinegar window cleaner
You may start at the top of the window and spray once or twice with glass cleaner. Then, wipe the window in Z-shaped motions with a microfiber cleaning cloth and work down the windowsill.
Henry says, “You can use a bucket of warm water with a few drops of dish soap or white vinegar. Wipe the soapy water with long, even swirls starting from top to bottom.”
For larger windows, you can use a squeegee and spray cleaner across the window surface, then squeegee dry. You wipe down the squeegee in between swipes and use plenty of absorbent microfiber cloths to prevent water spots. If you do not get a good result, you will repeat the process as needed.
Step 3 – Clean the Exterior and interior of the windows
Suppose you want to clean your windows’ exterior and interior to keep them looking their best. In that case, you should wipe the exterior glass with water and vinegar. Pay close attention to the window frames as well. Once the outside is clean, you can move inside to the interior glass. First, remove any curtains or blinds so they are out of the way. Then, spray a glass cleaner onto the panes and wipe with a newspaper in a circular motion. Henry says, “Make sure to get into the corners and edges where dirt can build up. Don’t forget the window tracks as well.” Regularly cleaning both sides will make your windows clear and allow natural light to shine through.
Warning
Vinegar is safe for windows and mirrors but can damage other materials due to its acidity. Never use vinegar on electronics or their glass screens. Avoid using vinegar on granite, marble countertops, or stone tile; use a gentle Castile soap instead.
How to Maintain Windows After DIY Cleaning
- Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to remove excess water. Thoroughly drying windows after cleaning helps prevent water spots.
- Apply a protective coating. Look for window cleaning products that contain ingredients like carnauba wax or polymers that form a protective barrier on the glass.
- Clean windows regularly. It’s easier to maintain clean windows than to immaculate dirty ones. Aim to clean windows every few weeks or monthly.
- Wipe up splashes immediately. Don’t let water or other liquids dry on the window surface. Wipe up any splashes from rain or household activities right away.
- Limit interior condensation. Keep humidity levels in the home moderate so condensation doesn’t form between the panes of an insulated window unit. Run exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens when showering or cooking.
FAQs on window cleaning
What is the best window cleaner to clean windows with?
White vinegar is a very effective and inexpensive product for cleaning windows. It cuts through grease and leaves streak-free. Commercial glass cleaners also work well.
Is white vinegar good for cleaning windows?
Yes, white vinegar is excellent for cleaning windows. The acetic acid in vinegar helps break down grease, dirt, and grime. It also leaves no residue behind like many store-bought cleaners can.
What is the ratio of vinegar to water for Washing windows?
A 1:1 white vinegar to water ratio works well for most window cleaning tasks. You can use 1/2 cup vinegar mixed with 1/2 cup water in a spray bottle. It would help if you considered increasing the vinegar concentration slightly for filthy windows.
How to clean windows with vinegar and baking soda?
Spray the window with a mixture of 1 part vinegar to 1 part water. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp microfiber cloth and wipe the window. The baking soda will help scrub dirt and grease while the vinegar cuts through it. Rinse with a clean, wet cloth.
Are you cleaning windows with white vinegar and newspaper?
Crumple up some newspaper and dip it in a 50/50 vinegar and water solution. Wipe the windows with the damp newspaper. The paper will help pick up dirt and grease, as paper towels sometimes can, without leaving streaks behind. Change newspaper sections as they get dirty.