Cleaning windows can be extremely irritating, as it can be hard to achieve a streak-free finish. While using certain types of cloths can help, sometimes looking for household items can be beneficial. A spokesperson for Vidalux said: “It can be tough to achieve a streak-free finish on glass furniture in the home, but the good news is so many common household items will do the job.”
There are various ways to clean windows “instead of using an expensive cleaner” – from lemons to a slice of white bread, and even potatoes. With that in mind, the experts have compiled a list of 10 common household items that effectively clean glass, leaving a “sparkling” finish.
1. Lemon
The acidity in lemon cuts through grease and breaks down stains on glass. Cut a fresh lemon in half and gently rub it onto the glass. Then, wipe away the residue and buff the area with a soft cloth, leaving a natural, streak-free shine.
2. Cornstarch
The experts said: “Cornstarch’s grainy texture helps polish glass and windows. It’s a gentle, yet effective method for removing stubborn marks. Mix some with cold water to make a paste, apply with a sponge, then wipe away the residue with a damp, soft cloth.”
3. Tea bags
Tea bags contain tannins, which have both antibacterial and emulsifying properties, helping to cut through grease. The experts recommended steeping a few tea bags in boiling water, allowing them to cool before rubbing the tea bags on the glass. Wipe clean with a microfibre cloth after a few minutes.
4. Ketchup
The pros said: “Smearing ketchup onto glass and letting it sit for a few minutes allows the acidity to break down grime and stains. Then simply wipe away the residue with a damp, soft cloth for a clean finish. This method is particularly effective on glass that has stubborn marks or smudges.”
5. Fizzy drinks
The carbonation and acidity in fizzy drinks such as cola are said to be effective at lifting sticky or greasy residue. Use a microfibre cloth to rub and buff away any streaks. This is a “quick, effective method for streak-free windows and mirrors”.
6. Potatoes
The experts noted: “Cutting a raw potato in half releases its juice and starch, which is especially effective at lifting sticky or greasy residue. Rub the potato over the glass and let the juice sit for a few minutes, then wipe away with a damp microfibre cloth.”
7. White bread
According to the pros, rubbing a slice of white bread can lift grime and leave a streak-free finish. You may only need a soft cloth to remove any leftover crumbs.
8. Dish soap
Dish soap’s grease-cutting properties make it an excellent choice for cleaning glass. Mix a small amount with warm water, use a sponge to wipe down the windows, and then dry with a cloth for a “sparkling finish”.
10. Baking soda
Start by creating a paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to the glass while rubbing in circular motions to break down the dirt.
Let it sit for 10 minutes to cut through grease, then rinse away the residue for a clean finish.
