by Danelle Karth

Created on: September 07, 2010

Cleaning is one of the harshest things that an average human can do to the earth. It isn't because cleaning in and of itself is bad, but rather because the chemicals that we use to make things really easy are really bad for the earth. In all the different areas of cleaning there are methods that can be used and materials that can be used that are safe for the environment and that can work just as well on the job at hand. Washing windows is no exception. You can clean your windows well and you can do it without harming the environment or yourself.

Wipe them down.

With a dry cloth it is a good idea to wipe the window down and brush any dust, dirt, or dead bugs from the sill. This will make it so that you don't push these things around when you are actually doing the washing. This should be done whether you are washing the inside or outside of the windows.

Make a washing solution.

The all time best solution for washing windows and mirrors is 1 part vinegar to 1 part water. This will clean through dirt, grime, and even smudges. However, it smells of vinegar. While it is true that after it dries any smell will be gone, if you have a hard time working with it you can use lemon juice instead of vinegar for an effect that is almost as good.

*It should be noted that you shouldn't use dish soap because this is toxic to the environment. There are safer versions out there these days, but traditional dish soap or detergent does harm to the environment and should not be added to your cleaning solution.

Start at the cleanest portion and work your way down.

It is best to start at the cleanest portion of the window which is usually at the time. Work your way down in small portions. If the window is really dirty make sure you do a lot of rinsing to keep from spreading the dirt to cleaner portions of the window.

Buff to a high streak free shine.

You can get that high shine that is completely streak free by crumpling a piece of newspaper and buffing the window with it. This will remove any streaks and will make the glass clear. It's also easy and fast.

Washing your windows can be done without harming the environment and can be done easily. Simply start by removing as much dirt with a dry rag. Then wash it with a solution of vinegar water or lemon water. Finish by buffing it to a high shine. Clean windows, without harmful chemicals is definitely the way to go.

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