Keeping windows clean can be a never ending chore in autumn as they are often coated in sticky residues, but there is a simple item that can banish even the most stubborn marks. The windy weather at this time of year will stir up pollen, dust and leaves which will eventually fall on windows to create a layer of debris. Cold temperatures will also bring about condensation, which is when moisture forms on a cold surface, and cause even more grime to cling to the glass.
It can be useless washing windows with commercial products as they often leave behind streaks, while natural alternatives like vinegar can be too weak to cut through the autumn build up. However, Bren Did, a green cleaning expert, has shared clearing windows and keeping them clean is actually very easy, as all you need is a little vodka.
Bren said: "A solution of water and plain white vinegar has been my go-to green cleaner for windows, mirrors, and other household glass surfaces for years.However, this simple vinegar cleaner was no match for sticky-fingered kids leaving prints on our glass door and dogs who love to watch our yard but leave slobbery streaks on the windows."
She added: "Cheap vodka is my new favourite glass-cleaning ingredient! I have spotless windows and mirrors with no funky odours floating about the house."
Vodka contains ethyl alcohol, which is naturally antibacterial and strong enough to remove any greasy residue left on windows in autumn.
Since vodka is highly alcoholic, it evaporates quickly and does not leave behind any streaks, which is helpful at this time of year when windows take longer to dry.
Vinegar can clean windows, but in autumn it tends to be best to use vodka as it is much stronger so can quickly remove autumn debris and marks on glass without needing to buy a harsh chemical product.
You will need:
- 60ml of vodka
- One tablespoon of cornflour
- 475ml of warm water
- 60ml of white vinegar (optional)
Method:
To begin, mix all the ingredients in a empty spray bottle, place the lid on, and give it a good shake. Keep shaking the bottle until the most of the cornstarch dissolves.
Cornflour is highly absorbent, and helps reduce the chances of cloudy patches forming on windows as it will soak up any excess moisture. This window cleaner can be made without white vinegar if you wish, but it can help remove any mineral build up on glass.
Spray a generous amount of the solution on a window, and then wipe in a circular motion with a cloth. Make sure to shake the bottle before each use as cornflour can clump up in liquid.
Then, simply use another dry cloth to buff the glass surface, and it should become extremely polished. Cleaning your window with this homemade solution should take less than 10 minutes, but result in spotless glass that stays clear and streak-free throughout the rest of autumn.
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