We all love glass surfaces, they are shiny and provide a classy and modern look. However, keeping glass surfaces clean and fingerprint free can be a challenge. No matter how many times you wipe a water cloth on mirrors, windows, or glass tabletops, there always is some grime, water spots, and dirt that can appear dull and unsightly.
In this article, we will learn five effective methods for cleaning glass to a perfect shine. Moreover, we will also examine the different types of glasses and how to keep them shiny too! Right from the techniques to the materials needed to clean glasses, this blog will cover it all. By the end, you will have the knowledge needed to keep your glass surfaces beautifully clean and transparent.
Understanding Types of Glass Surfaces
Tempered Glass
Tempered glass, when made, is heated to a certain degree to increase its strength and durability. In order to clean a tempered glass, use a soft cloth or squeegee with a mild, non-abrasive glass cleaner. Try to avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing pads which can damage the surface. While cleaning, wipe in a smooth side-to-side motion for perfect cleaning leaving no spots.
Annealed Glass
Annealed glass is basically untreated glass. It can be cleaned with the most standard or basic glass cleaners that contain ammonia or vinegar. To clean the glass, first spray the cleaner and wipe the surface using a microfiber cloth in a circular motion. Prevent streaking for clear cleaning. Once done, buff dry the surface using a clean cloth.
Coated Glass
Coated glass is a type of glass that is scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, with enhanced strength among many other properties. To clean coated glass, use cleaners hat are specifically designed for coated glass. Harsh chemicals can easily damage the coating. While cleaning, apply the cleaner with a soft cloth and wipe gently. Avoid scrubbing or excessive rubbing as it may cause damage to the surface coating.
Mirror Glass
For mirrors, you should use a glass cleaner specific for mirrors, or you can mix white vinegar and water in equal parts. Once done,spray it lightly and wipe with a microfiber or a clean cloth. Clean the surface in a Z-pattern from edge to edge to avoid any spots. Buff dry for a clean and shiny surface using a clean cloth. Make sure you don’t let any moisture seep behind the mirror backing.
Materials Needed For Glass Cleaning
Here are some of the most common materials needed for effectively cleaning glass surfaces:
- Glass Cleaner Solution- You can use commercial glass cleaners sold at the market, such as Windex, Invisible Glass, etc. Or you can make a homemade vinegar solution (equal parts of water and vinegar).
- Clean Cloth/Rags- These cloths include microfiber cloths, cotton towels/cloths, newspapers and even paper towels.
- Squeegee- This will be used to clean large window panes and to prevent streaks.
- Scraper- A scraper is used to remove any stuck-on debris or stickers from the glass surface.
- Spray Bottles- You can store your cleaners or homemade solution in tiny spray bottles for easy access.
- Step Ladder – A step ladder may be necessary in situations that require reaching a certain height like windows and huge mirrors.
5 Effective Methods of Cleaning Glass
Clean From Top to Bottom
To clean glass, you should always begin at the top and work your way down. This stops the spotting that comes from solution dripping. Spray the cleaner directly on the glass, and then use a clean cloth or paper towels to wipe it down horizontally first. Then use vertical wipes to make sure you’ve covered everything. Before cleaning the bottom parts, clean the upper areas.
Clean Corners With Cotton Swabs
If you need to clean tight corners and tough spots, use cotton swabs dipped in glass cleaner, they will make it much easier to clean the tiniest speck of dirt. The swab will allow you to precisely clean every nook and corner for a spotless finish on framed windows, cabinet doors or multi-pane windows.
Try Homemade Window Cleaner
Rather than buying conventional commercial cleaners, make your own homemade cleaner window. Just mix 1 part of white vinegar to 1 part of water in a spray bottle and give it a good shake. The vinegar will help clean grime and dirt while the water helps disperse for covering more surface. For a stronger degreasing power, you can add a few drops of dish wash to the spray bottle.
Use a dry towel
Once you have cleaned the glass with a glass cleaner, make sure to wipe the surface with a clean, dry towel, cloth, or any crumpled newspaper. This enables them to prevent streaks and water spots, providing a squeaky clean surface. The dry cloth will help absorb any residual cleaner left behind for a crystal clear finish.
Use a Squeegee
For cleaning large window panes, or exterior glass, use a professional squeegee. It prevents drips and streaks on the surface areas. You should start squeegeeing from the top, working horizontally and overlapping strokes slightly. Once done with, wipe the squeegee blade with a dry cloth. This method may take some additional time but will leave you sparkling clear surfaces.
Conclusion
Keeping glass surfaces sparkling clean requires the right techniques and materials. Remember to always clean from top to bottom to prevent streaking from drips. Make use of cotton swabs dipped in cleaner to get into tight corners and spots. Moreover, try making your own homemade cleaner for an affordable and effective option. All essential materials required for cleaning glass can be easily available at your nearest convenience store at an affordable price. Mainly, always ensure the type of glass you are dealing with before cleaning it.
With the above given methods, materials and techniques, you now possess all the vital knowledge required to maintain beautifully clear, transparent and clean glass at your home or workplace. Put these tips into practice regularly, and gain the reward of shiny, spotless glass that looks flawless.
FAQ’s
- What is the best homemade glass cleaner recipe?
The best homemade glass cleaner recipe is to mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- How often should I clean my glass surfaces?
You should clean glass surfaces frequently, about once a week or whenever they start looking dull and unclean.
- Can newspapers really be used to clean glass?
Yes, crumpled newspapers can be very effective for cleaning glass and also help leave a streak-free shine.
- How do I clean glass without leaving lint behind?
To clean glass without leaving lint behind, use a microfiber cloth, or squeegee and make sure to buff dry it using a lint-free towel after cleaning.