Let’s face it, cleaning windows is about as much fun as stepping on a Lego barefoot. But, as a single mom who’s been through the wringer, I’ve learned a thing or two about turning a pain in the tuckas task into a sparkling spectacle. So, let’s dive into the world of pro-level window cleaning.
“S” is for Safety (and Squeegee)
In the thrilling world of window cleaning, safety is the name of the game. Accidents can happen, especially when you’re juggling glass, ladders, and a toddler who’s decided to use your clean laundry as a canvas for their juice box art. Enter the “S” technique. This method involves swishing the squeegee in an “S” pattern across the window, reducing the risk of smashing the glass and your sanity. And remember, slap some anti-slip tape on your ladder steps to avoid any impromptu acrobatics.
Dusting: Not Just for Fairy Tales
Before you even think about baptizing your windows, make sure to dust your blinds and sills. This step is as crucial as remembering to pick up your kid from daycare (trust me, they don’t like it when you forget). Use compressed air or a terrycloth rag to evict any dust bunnies from their cozy corners. Otherwise, you’re just swirling mud around your windows and in your window cleaning solution, which is not ideal for that streak free shine.
The Secret Sauce: DIY Window Cleaning Solutions
1. Vinegar, Warm Water, and Dawn Dish Soap Solution
Method: Combine ingredients in a spray bottle. Spray on windows and clean with a microfiber cloth or squeegee.
Why It’s Great: The acidity of vinegar cuts through dirt and provides shine, while Dawn dish soap effectively removes grease. Warm water enhances cleaning power.
If there is any residue at all left over, I have finished with a 70% rubbing alcohol rinse
2. Ammonia-Based Window Cleaner
Rating: 8/10
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon ammonia
1 gallon water
Method: Mix ammonia with water in a spray bottle. Use a soft cloth or sponge for wiping.
Why It’s Good: Ammonia, a key ingredient in many commercial cleaners, is excellent for general window cleaning, offering a streak-free finish.
Why It’s Effective: Rubbing alcohol is great for removing tough stains and works well as an after-cleaning rinse to ensure a streak-free shine.
4. Cornstarch and Water Paste
Rating: 6.5/10
Ingredients:
Cornstarch
Water (to form a paste)
Method: Mix cornstarch with water to create a paste. Apply to windows, scrub gently, and rinse off.
Why to Try It: Cornstarch is a natural cleaning agent that tackles dirt, grime, and streaks effectively.
5. Vinegar and Water Spray
Rating: 6/10
Ingredients:
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 cups water
Method: Combine in a spray bottle and apply to windows. Clean with a microfiber cloth or squeegee.
Why it’s useful: A simple and eco-friendly solution, vinegar dissolves dirt and adds shine to windows.
6. Warmed Vinegar for Tough Stains
Rating: 5.5/10
Ingredients:
Distilled white vinegar (warmed)
Method: Apply warmed vinegar directly to tough stains or build-up. Leave for a few minutes, scrub gently, and rinse.
Best for: removing stubborn grime, paint spots, or hard-water mineral buildup.
Squeegee Cleaning: The Unsung Hero of Window Washing
Squeegees are the secret weapon in the war against grimy windows. They use their thin, rubber side to remove water, leading to less streaking and smudging than a toddler’s finger painting. Be sure to wipe your squeegee down with a dry towel or piece of newspaper for the best results.
Detailing: The Devil’s in the Details
Once you’ve completed your big once-over, go back and look at the little spots that you may have missed. Use an old toothbrush or rag to remove water from around the edges of your sill. Rubbing alcohol can also be used to remove adhesive residue. It’s like the finishing touch on a masterpiece or finally getting your kid to eat their vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s this “S” technique you keep talking about?
The “S” technique involves moving the squeegee in an “S” pattern across the window. This method not only ensures a thorough clean but also reduces the risk of accidentally smashing the glass. It’s like the Macarena for window cleaning.
How much do people pay for professional window cleaning?
Hiring a professional window cleaner typically costs homeowners between $150 and $350. On average, people tend to spend around $250 cleaning all the windows in their house. The price for window cleaning services usually varies, with per-window costs ranging from $10 to $15, or alternatively, from $4 to $8 for each pane. The national average for such services is about $219, which breaks down to roughly $10 for each window. Overall, the price for a window cleaning job can fall anywhere from $150 to $302. For residential window cleaning, the charges are generally between $4 and $15 per window or $7 per pane. The final cost is often influenced by several factors, including the size of the home, the total number of windows, the condition of the windows, and the specific type of windows that need cleaning.
How can I prevent streaks on my windows?
Using a squeegee can help prevent streaks on your windows. Be sure to wipe your squeegee down with a dry towel or piece of newspaper after each swipe for the best results. It’s like combing your hair, but less painful.
In conclusion, window cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a streak-free shine on your windows. Remember safety first, and don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your cleaning solutions.
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Wendy Green, aka DubG, is a single mom, humor blogger, and DIY expert who has faced more than her fair share of challenges. But she's never backed down, and she's always found a way to laugh in the face of adversity.
Or, as she likes to say, "I'm a single mom who took on the world, and I'm still laughing. Mostly because I'm not sure what else to do."
DubG's story is one of resilience, determination, and humor. She started her blog, MomVersusTheWorld.com, as a way to share her experiences as a single mom and to offer support to other women who are going through similar challenges.
DubG's blog is full of funny, relatable stories about everything from DIY fails to debt tips to mental health resources. She also shares her own personal stories of surviving life's dumpster fire, because if she can do it, you can too.
But don't get her wrong, DubG is not afraid to be sarcastic. She's the first to admit that she's a hot mess, and she's not afraid to make fun of herself.
In fact, she believes that humor is one of the best ways to cope with the challenges of being a single mom.
"If you can't laugh, you'll cry," she says. "And I'm not crying over this dumpster fire of a life."
So if you're looking for a little bit of humor, inspiration, and real talk, then you need to check out DubG's blog. She's the single mom who took on the world, and she's still laughing.
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