Cleaning Windows and Mirrors - DYC (2024)

FAQs

What is the best solution for cleaning windows and mirrors? ›

The same solution can be used when cleaning the glass on both windows and mirrors. Not only will the vinegar remove built up dust and dirt, it will also get rid of any stubborn hard water stains. Mix equal parts water and distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto a microfiber cloth.

In a spray bottle, mix 2 cups of lukewarm water, 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar, and 1/3 teaspoon of grease-cutting liquid dish soap. Shake to mix. Spray on windows and use either a lint-free microfiber cloth or a window squeegee (preferably) to clean the glass.

Microfiber cloths are absorbent cloths that can be washed and reused to clean windows, leaving them clear, shiny and streak-free. These are best used to apply cleaning solutions to windows, scrub them clean and wipe them dry. Best of all, they are soft and pose no risk to your windows.

Provided they are clean, microfiber cloths are the best way to avoid thin films left over after you wipe down the surface of your glass or mirror. Some people recommend using rags, or an old tee-shirt, but those materials were not designed for cleaning.

Combine one cup water, one cup vinegar and a teaspoon of dish soap in a spray bottle. Shake gently to mix. Apply the solution directly to the mirror and let it sit for a few seconds. Wipe the spray on the mirror away with either a microfiber cloth or newspaper.

Mix one part vinegar with one part warm water. Dishwashing liquid is a solid addition. For a more heavy duty clean, add some dishwashing liquid to your water and vinegar solution. This will cut through the toughest marks and spots.

Give any mirror a streak-free clean with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Starting from the top of the mirror, mist the solution on the surface and wipe it down in zig-zag motion with a microfiber cloth. Spot-clean stubborn residue with rubbing alcohol on a cotton pad.

Vinegar is non-toxic, making it perfect for cleaning your windows instead of using harsh chemicals. It is much more economical than chemical cleaning solutions. Crawling insects are also not fond of vinegar, so using this solution will help keep your windows looking cleaner for longer.

Dish Soap Solution

Believe it or not, one of the most common and effective window cleaning solutions that is used by professionals is a mixture of dish soap and water. Simply mix one gallon of water with two teaspoons of liquid dish soap, and you have a professional window cleaning solution.

Is vinegar better than Windex? ›

Many commercial window cleaners contain harsh chemicals that may pose health risks. Vinegar, on the other hand, is a safe and natural alternative for cleaning glass.

The most common professional window cleaning solution recipe is filtered or distilled water and dish soap. Just a few spoonfuls of dish soap is all that's needed to create foam for gliding and to help break up any grease and dirt on the glass during cleaning.

Like newspapers, paper towels are also advised against because they leave behind lint-like residue. Avoid cleaning solutions that create suds on the mirror as this will lead to streaks on the glass. Never apply a cleaning product to the mirror until you have thoroughly removed dust, dirt, and stains.

Paper towels are typically treated for absorbency, which makes them ideal for spills, but awful for glass cleaning. Instead, substitute your paper towels for something more practical, like actual cloth. Lint-free cotton cloths, like microfiber cloths are great options for glass cleaners.

Combine two parts water with one part white vinegar in a spray bottle and you'll be all set with a homemade window cleaner. You can also combine warm water with a few drops of dishwashing soap if you prefer. Invest in a glass spray bottle to mix up your formula.

Window cleaners usually use basic dish soap to clean windows effectively. This includes Dawn, Palmolive, and other standard products. Some pros also rely on specialized cleaning liquids.