Published July 19th, 2022
Cleaning glass can be a frustrating household task. When you feel as though you have done a good job, and then you look back minutes later and there are streaks – is there anything more annoying than that? However, cleaning glass does not have to be difficult or frustrating. There are many different ways that you can clean the glass in your home, whether that is a tabletop, window or any other residential glass use. These methods will keep the glass looking brand-new for longer.
Determine the Type of Glass
Firstly, you should determine the type of glass, as each type of glass has its own way of being cleaned. So, check if your glass is clear, tinted or reflective.
Reflective glass shows damage easily. So, if the outer coating is damaged, you will be able to notice it more. Therefore specialist cleaning must be done, as damage can ruin the coating.
Tinted glass must not be cleaned in direct sunlight. Sunlight can heat the glass up to very high temperatures, so the cleaning solution that you use may dry quickly. You should also avoid clashing two opposite temperatures, e.g. pouring boiling water on cold glass.
There are no particular rules for cleaning clear glass. Check out our other cleaning tips below to find out more.
Remove Dust and Debris
Before you start the cleaning process, you must ensure that there is no dust or debris on the glass. This can make cleaning very difficult, and even damage the glass by leaving scratches.
You can remove any particles by using warm, soapy water and pouring it on the glass. Use a soft sponge to lightly rub the solution in. Move the sponge around in circular motions. Once complete, use clean water to remove the old soapy water and absorb the water with a lint-free cloth.
Homemade Glass Cleaner
Homemade is often better than store-bought! You can save money and have cleaner windows by making a DIY solution of things you probably already have in your cupboards. Here are the ingredients that you will need:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2-3 tbsp. white vinegar
- 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol
You can check out 2 other solutions on this website.
Once you have created the solution, you can mix it up, pour it into an empty spray bottle and shake it. Ensure that you label it, so you know what it is for next time.
If you would prefer to purchase a pre-made window cleaner, check out this list of the top products that are on the market right now.
Are you looking to upgrade your home? Get a quote from TuffX today for a new, creative and stunning glass fixture.
What NOT to do
Here is a list of things you should avoid doing when you are maintaining glass:
- Do not clean in direct sunlight. This may cause the glass to look ‘streaky’.
- Do not put off cleaning the glass. Make it a regular habit, and it will stay an easy task. If you let the dust and debris build-up, it will become more difficult and make the glass look older than it is.
- Do not use rough cleaning materials.
- Do not use metal scrapers.
Distilled Water
When you are cleaning, you should avoid using tap water. Use distilled water from a store-bought bottle or make your own at home.
Glass can be difficult to clean, so it is important to get everything right. Tap water has a high level of magnesium and calcium in it, which can make glass look streaky.
Clean From Top to Bottom
You should always clean glass from top to bottom if you want a streak-free finish. The cleaning solution you are using may drip down, so if you start from top to bottom, the bottom of the glass can be reached with the solution. If you start from the bottom to the top, then already clean areas will be receiving more cleaning solutions, which will make the glass streaky.
Invest in a Squeegee
A squeegee is a fantastic tool. It will remove all of the cleaning solution, which clothes often do not have the absorption abolition to do. This tool will leave the glass looking shiny and brand-new! Read more about squeegees here.
Regular Cleaning
Regularly cleaning the glass in your house is key to ensuring it looks brand-new and the cleaning process is not too difficult or time-consuming.
Generally, mirrors, shower door glass and glass surfaces should be cleaned every week. Whereas windows can be cleaned every 3-4 weeks.
Glass is a brilliant material to use in your home, and it requires a lot less maintenance than other materials. You will also reap a number of benefits such as an upgrade in the appearance of the space and increased value. Do not let the cleaning put you off!