Today, sustainable practices are important because they are effectively reducing our carbon footprint, thereby bringing sustainability into our lifestyles. Window cleaning is one section of home maintenance that usually goes unnoticed.
The chemicals used in standard products for window cleaning harm the environment and our health. However, the good news is that using eco-friendly window cleaning allows one to have a spotlessly clean, clear view with minimal impact on the environment.
In this blog, we are going to discuss some of the sustainable practices implemented by window cleaning experts, such as The Window Washers, including natural solutions in cleaning, green cleaning products, and tips on how to keep your windows clean enough without applying any chemical releases.
1. Why Choose Eco-Friendly Window Cleaning?
Traditionally, window cleaners usually contain ammonia, phosphates, and artificial fragrances that cause havoc when dispersed in the natural environment. Such chemicals are always known to pollute water and soil whenever released. In most cases, many of these products come in plastic packaging, and most of the ever-increasing plastic waste is caused by them.
However, eco-friendly cleaning for windows is used since its ingredients and tools are non-toxic and biodegradable.
It means one can believe that it’s sustainable. Using eco-friendly cleaning techniques will not only result in a cleaner world but also make the living space healthier. Some of the main reasons for selecting any of these eco-friendly methods of window cleaning are:
- Better Indoor Air Quality: Most commercial cleaning products give out poisonous fumes that damage lung tissue. Eco-friendly cleaning alternatives are safer for you and your loved ones.
- Chemical Waste Reduction by Natural Decay: Since they decay naturally, green cleaning products reduce the chances of chemical runoffs into water and grounds.
- Sustainable Practices: Many of the products used in cleaning are environmentally friendly, made from renewable resources, and often designed to last longer to reduce waste.
- Cost-Effective: Most environment-friendly cleaning agents, such as vinegar and baking soda, are very cheap and common in the house, thereby cutting the costs of buying commercial cleaners.
2. Sustainable Practices to Clean Windows
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tools
The proper cleaning tools will make all the difference between a good cleaning routine and an environmentally friendly one. Use these sustainable tools and get ahead:
- Microfiber Cloths: Jettison paper towels contribute toward the destruction of trees and the piling up of garbage. Instead, start using microfiber cloths, as they are usually quite tough at catching dust and dirt; hence, fewer chemicals would be used.
- Squeegees: A good squeegee is always inescapable for cleaning windows streak-free. In fact, almost every kind of squeegee is made from materials that can last, such as stainless steel or recycled plastic.
- Natural Sponges: Using only natural cellulose sponges or other biodegradable material instead of artificial sponges while cleaning the window sills and frames will definitely help.
- Spray Bottles: If using spray bottles, try to recycle plastic ones or have a glass one that you can reuse. Try to use fewer single-use plastic bottles than possible.
- Natural Cleaning Solutions
These are the bases of this eco-friendly window cleaning solution, consisting of natural, non-toxic agents that can be compared with the alternative in performance. Some of the popular, eco-friendly DIY cleaning solutions you can easily make at home are the following:
- Vinegar and Water Solution: Combine equal parts of white vinegar with water in the spray bottle. Natural cleaning can break through grime for streak-free windows. For stronger stains or if dirt is stuck to the surface, a paste of baking soda and water can be applied carefully to each window using a microfiber cloth and then removed with it.
- Lemon Juice and Water: Lemon juice is naturally disinfecting and dissolves grease and grime, too. Mix with some tablespoon of lemon juice and water for a fresher, milder scent cleaner.
- Castile Soap Solution: The soap is biodegradable and originates from vegetable oils; use the solution to clean your windows and other surfaces. A few drops in water create a mild yet effective cleanser.
3. Keeping Your Windows Clean and Green
Once you’ve cleaned your windows using these eco-friendly ways, here are some extra tips on how to keep them looking their best:
- Regular Maintenance: Clean your windows a few times a month to avoid grime and dirt sticking on for too long. It is easier when done regularly rather than having to put up with strong chemicals and intense scrubbing.
- Right Technique Application: Use a squeegee to clean a window from the top down. After every stroke, clean the blade with a cloth to prevent leaving streaks.
- Clean Window Frames and Sills: The window frames and sills also need cleaning. Dust and debris collect in such areas and may bring out a difference in the general cleanliness of windows.
- Do not Clean Windows on Windy Days: Since dust and dirt blown by the wind make cleaning the window without streaks difficult, try cleaning windows on calmer days.
- Water Conservation
Water conservation is another essential aspect related to green window cleaning. All traditional window cleaning depends on unconserved water, which naturally leads to waste. Here are some ways through which water can be conserved:
- Use a Damp Cloth: Don’t spray a lot of water on your windows. Instead, use a damp microfiber cloth. It reduces the volume of water used while still delivering effective cleaning.
- Clean on a Cloudy Day: If it’s a water-based solution and you’re only rinsing, then do it on a cloudy day. Don’t clean on a sunny day because the cleaning solution will evaporate too quickly. You’ll stop to add more water.
- Recycled Water: Collect rainwater or recycle water to clean the outside of your windows. Tap water is a definite no. You could collect it in a rain barrel or other objects around the house.
4. Importance of an Eco-Friendly Window Cleaning Service
If you need a solution other than cleaning windows by yourself, you should seek the services of a company specializing in environmentally friendly window cleaning.
Today, many companies are skilled at using environment-friendly cleaning solutions and equipment to make windows shine without harming the environment.
In addition, ensure that they don’t use chemical cleaning agents in their operation if they claim to be sustainable and help save water.
Conclusion
One small change that can make a big difference is switching window cleaning methods to more eco-friendly ones. Use your natural cleaning solution, water-saving techniques, and sustainable tools to get those windows sparkling clean without using chemical-based window cleaners.
Start doing it yourself or hire an environment-conscious window cleaning service like The Window Washers; these green practices will get your windows spotless while clearing your conscience.
Making the switch to environmentally friendly window cleaning has benefits that aren’t only limited to improving views from your window but also help you play your part in protecting the planet for future generations.
