Everyday tip: How to clean windows with vinegar and baking soda
When the sun reveals the dirt marks on your rental home’s windows, it's time to wipe away the pollen and fingerprints. For window cleaning, you don't need to rush to the store for pricey cleaning products that burden the environment. Instead, you can rely on a naturally powerful combination: vinegar and water.
Before cleaning the windows
For window cleaning, you'll need a bucket, clean cloth, gloves, window squeegee, vinegar, and water. You don't need to purchase expensive equipment – a simple window squeegee will do.
Protect the floors from dirt and moisture by laying a towel in front of the windows.
The best kind of weather for cleaning windows is grey and cloudy. Sun and warm air dry the glass surfaces quickly during cleaning, leaving behind unsightly streaks.
Vinegar and water guarantee clean windows
Making a vinegar-water mixture is easy. The ratio is two litres of water to three tablespoons of vinegar. Remember to change the water when it turns grey. This way, you won’t accidentally clean the windows with dirty water and create more work for yourself.
Wipe with the squeegee horizontally or vertically from frame to frame. If the window is very dirty, wipe the squeegee occasionally on a clean, dry cloth.
Remove stubborn stains with baking soda
If stains don’t seem to come off, add baking soda to the washing water. You'll need two teaspoons of baking soda for two litres of water.
If a stain is particularly stubborn, you can also make an effective paste with baking soda. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water in a separate container. Let the mixture bubble for a moment. Then, press the bubbling mixture directly onto the stain with a sponge or cloth. After letting it work for about 10 minutes, wipe it off with a damp cloth.
However, avoid scrubbing the windows of a rental apartment with the paste, as it could scratch them.
Refresh with lemon
Tangy lemon and vinegar go well together. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the washing water and enjoy the fresh scent after cleaning. The empty lemon peel can be left in the fridge overnight to combat stale smells. In the morning, dispose of the lemon in the bio-waste bin and opening the fridge will be a delight!
Finishing up
Finish window cleaning by wiping the window frames and trims. Wipe away any splashes created during the cleaning with a damp cloth. Remember, painted surfaces don't withstand harsh scrubbing. Light wiping is enough. Once you're done, let the windows dry for a while. Then, your most important task is to enjoy the wonderfully clean and clear windows.
Sources: Martat, SINI, Kodin Kuvalehti