How to Clean Really Filthy Windows

There are times when you will be required to wash windows. Not just any windows, but completely filthy ones. There are assorted reasons you might be called on to tackle a heavy duty window cleaning job . . . perhaps you just moved into a somewhat abandoned home, or maybe you have small children who enjoy smearing candy and peanut butter on glass. Whatever the reason, here is a step by step method to get rid of all that dirt and grime.

First, you will need hot soapy water and some old towels. Cut the towels into manageable sized rags and you are ready for phase one of the window cleaning. Scrub off all the surface dirt with the hot soapy water. Dish soap is best for getting rid of any greasy residue. This first washing probably won’t get everything off, so don’t be disappointed if you find there are still some smudges and bits of dirt stuck to the window. Also, some real elbow grease is required to get rid of fly specks and the like, so be prepared for hard work.

After you have the first layer of grime off, you will want to scrape the stuck on dirt. This is best done with a plain razor blade. Wrap a bit of cardboard from a cereal box or something similar around the back of the blade to make a handle and then use it to scrape any stubborn chunks off the window.

Sometimes, you will find glue or tape residue. This can be extra tricky to get off, but with a product like GooGone, you will save yourself a lot of work! Rubbing alcohol can also be used, just dampen a clean spot on a rag and rub it over the patch of stickiness. It can take some time and a combination of cleaning and scraping to remove some residues, so be patient.

Now you are ready to rewash with hot soapy water! This time, have paper towels on hand, too. When you finish washing one pane down, wipe it dry with the paper towel. This should leave you with a fairly clean piece of glass, now.

The final step in washing your dirty windows is to go over them with paper towels and a normal glass cleaner. This can be Windex, or your preferred brand of glass cleaner, or you can just use diluted vinegar in water. Spritz the cleaner on and wipe it dry with a paper towel, using circular motions to prevent streaking.

While you may feel that the task is impossible to begin with, dirty windows can be cleaned if you have the right technique. IT will definitely take longer than you are accustomed, but the results are worth it.