Effective Home Remedies for Cleaning Windows

Clean windows can make your home feel brighter and more welcoming. While there are many commercial cleaning products available, home remedies can be just as effective, eco-friendly, and budget-conscious. Whether you’re up against smudges, streaks, or water stains, a little creativity and elbow grease can make your glass sparkle. Here’s a detailed look at the most effective home remedies for window cleaning.

Jump to article sections:

1. When to Choose Home Remedies?
2. Vinegar and Water for Streak-Free Shine
3. Can Baking Soda Make Your Windows Sparkle?
4. Lemon Juice as a Natural Glass Polish
5. Dish Soap and Water: A Classic Combo That Works
6. Cleaning with Rubbing Alcohol for a Professional Look
7. Using Cornstarch to Get Rid of Smudges
8. When to Consider Professional Window Cleaning

1. When to Choose Home Remedies?

Home remedies for window cleaning can be a great option if you’re looking for a more natural and inexpensive way to clean your windows. They are also beneficial if you have pets, children, or allergies since they typically use fewer harsh chemicals. These home remedies are also eco-friendly window cleaning solutions that can help reduce your carbon footprint.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that home remedies may not always be as effective as commercial cleaners, especially when dealing with tough stains or buildup on your windows. Still there’s several home remedies worth exploring in this article.  Keep reading to discover which one may be right for your home.

2. Vinegar and Water for Streak-Free Shine

Vinegar has long been the hero of DIY cleaning, and for good reason. It’s naturally acidic, which helps dissolve dirt and grime without leaving streaks. To create a vinegar window cleaning solution, mix:

• 1 part white vinegar
• 1 part water

Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and gently mist your window. Use a microfiber cloth or a squeegee for best results. In fact, the tools you use to clean your windows are just as important as the cleaning solution. Read more in our guide “Discover the Best Thing to Use to Clean Windows: Advice from the Pros.”

Pro tip: If the vinegar smell is a concern, add a few drops of essential oil like lavender or citrus to improve the scent.

3. Can Baking Soda Make Your Windows Sparkle?

Baking soda is a powerhouse cleaner, especially for tackling stubborn, sticky grime. For windows with built-up residues like sap or grease, baking soda is a perfect assistant. Here’s how to use it:

1. Create a paste with 2 tablespoons of baking soda and a small amount of water.
2. Gently scrub the problem areas with the paste using a soft cloth or sponge.
3. Rinse thoroughly with water and finish by drying the window with a lint-free cloth.

This method works wonders for small, tough spots where other cleaning solutions might fall short.

4. Lemon Juice as a Natural Glass Polish

Lemon juice is not just refreshing in a glass—it’s cleansing on your glass, too! Its natural acidity makes it great at breaking down dirt while leaving a fresh scent. To use lemon juice as a window cleaner:

• Mix the juice of 2 lemons with 1 liter of warm water.
• Dip a sponge into the solution and apply it to the window.
• Use a squeegee or cloth to wipe the surface clean, drying thoroughly to avoid streaks.

If your windows are especially dirty, add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the mix for an extra boost.

5. Dish Soap and Water: A Classic Combo That Works

Dish soap is a simple and effective choice for windows, thanks to its grease-cutting abilities. It’s especially useful for everyday cleaning. Here’s your simple recipe:

1. Fill a bucket with warm water.
2. Add just a few drops of dish soap (too much can leave residue).
3. Dip a microfiber cloth into the soapy water and gently scrub your windows.

After scrubbing, rinse with clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry the glass with a squeegee or a soft towel for a spotless finish.

6. Cleaning with Rubbing Alcohol for a Professional Look

Rubbing alcohol is excellent for dissolving stubborn stains and fingerprints. It dries quickly and leaves windows streak-free, making it a go-to method for hard water stains. Here’s how to use it:

1. Mix 1 part rubbing alcohol with 1 part water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the solution onto a lint-free cloth and wipe down the windows.
3. Polish with a dry cloth for that professional shine.

For extremely tough stains, use rubbing alcohol on its own but apply sparingly to avoid over-drying the surface.

7. Using Cornstarch to Get Rid of Smudges

Cornstarch isn’t just for cooking—it’s surprisingly effective in DIY window cleaning. It cuts through streaks and leaves glass sparkling. To create your solution:

• Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1/4 cup of white vinegar, and 2 cups of water.
• Shake well in a spray bottle before using.
• Spray onto the window and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.

This method is particularly useful for older or fragile windows where abrasive cleaners may cause damage.

8. When to Consider Professional Window Cleaning

While DIY cleaning methods are effective, they may not be suitable for all situations. Here are some reasons to consider hiring a professional window cleaner:

• High or hard-to-reach windows: Professional cleaners have the equipment and experience to safely clean windows in high or difficult-to-reach areas.
• Specialty glass: If your windows are made from delicate materials like stained or leaded glass, it’s best to leave it to professionals who know how to handle them correctly.
• Lack of time or physical ability: If you have a busy schedule or physical limitations, hiring a professional can save you time and effort while still achieving sparkling results.

Professional window cleaning services can also provide additional services like deep cleaning, removing hard water stains, and restoring damaged windows. Read more in DIY vs. Professional Cleaning to help you decide which option is best for your home.

For those in the Houston area searching for trusted professional window cleaners, consider TruShine. TruShine Window Cleaning specializes in residential and commercial window cleaning. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality service, making your windows shine like new – satisfaction guaranteed! So give us a call today for Houston professional window cleaning that exceeds expectations.