Dirt and grime matters
Kitchen windows generally are much more difficult to clean than a bathroom or bedroom window. Those who live in a home where someone smokes also may have different cleaning needs than those who live in a smoke-free environment. The ideal cleaning solution for your windows will depend largely on what room you are cleaning, how much street dust is in your home and whether or not anyone in your home smokes. Cleaning solutions may also depend on how frequently windows are cleaned.
Light soil
Windows that are lightly soiled are the easiest ones to clean. Using a 12-ounce spray bottle, mix one-quarter of a cup of white vinegar (two ounces) with ten ounces of warm water. Spray windows starting at the top and wipe with paper towels (or newspaper). It is important to note that this should be avoided when the sun in streaming through the window.
Medium soil
Generally, most kitchens will have windows that have medium levels of soil on them. Cooking in the kitchen will result in some coating of the windows. These require special treating in order to cut through the grease. However, this does not mean you have to resort to harsh chemicals to get them clean. Using a 12-ounce spray bottle, add one-half cup of white vinegar (four ounces), one-half teaspoon of lemon juice and fill the bottle with warm water. Clean windows from top to bottom being careful to not allow solution to get on wooden frames. Carefully wipe window surface with paper towels (or newspaper).
Heavy soil
When windows are heavily soiled it may be more challenging to break through the build-up of dirt and grime. However, it is still possible to green clean your windows even when there is heavy soil. Mix six ounces of white vinegar, two tablespoons of lemon juice and six ounces of water in a spray bottle. Spray solution on windows and wipe with paper towels or newspaper. Repeat as needed.
Vinegar and lemon juice provide a combination of easy to use ingredients that are not harsh on the environment. Citrus in the lemon will help cut grease and as a rule is not harsh on wood or other window frame surfaces. Be sure to check manufacturer’s warnings before using these solutions on windows that have frames made of composite materials to prevent damage. There are also commercial green cleaning products that may be helpful if you prefer to not make your own solutions.
