Your home or office windows should be cleaned and streak-free to invite more light and make the spaces brighter and more welcoming. To achieve the streak-free shine, you will need to master the techniques to use effectively a window cleaning squeegee.
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If you think you can do it without the proper preparation and care of detail, think again. To use a squeegee properly, you must explore its application’s art. It goes through choosing the right tool to avoid common practical mistakes.
If your windows are challenging in shape, do not fret; we have tips on improving the situation. Read on to find out how to clean your windows streak-free with a squeegee. You might think it’s quick work and washing your windows is effortless, but you must get acquainted with the process to make it easy.
How to Choose the Right Squeegee?
You must clean your windows efficiently and leave them shiny and streak-free with the appropriate squeegee. What to consider before you purchase one? Several factors determine the suitable squeegee for you.Â
Blade Material
There are different blade material types you need to consider. Most frequently, those are the rubber blades that you will need. Choose a squeegee that boosts a high-quality rubber blade because that is crucial for flexibility and glass suitability. A high-quality rubber will not leave streaks on the glass.
While rubber might be more durable, silicone blades are more flexible and are chosen for more bumpy surfaces.
Blade Length
Considering the proper blade length to match your windows’ size is crucial. The bigger the blade, the more suitable for large windows and vice versa.
If you oversee that, your cleaning might be less effective, leaving undesirable streaks on the cleaned glass area and smearing the shine.
Handle Length
If you are to clean easy-to-reach windows, you won’t require an extensive handle. However, if your windows are too high or hard to reach, consider purchasing a squeegee with a telescopic handle. It will provide an extensive reach.
Ergonomics
A comfortable grip on your squeegee handle is essential to provide reasonable control and comfort throughout the straining cleaning process. Do not underestimate comfort. A rubber grip provides the necessary control.
Squeegee Type
Finally, you might wonder what type of blade is more appropriate for you – a single or a double one. While single-blade squeegees are widely commercially used and are suitable for households, double-blade ones are designed to perform heavy-duty tasks. Unlike single blades, double ones can remove water in a single swipe.
Since squeegees come in various materials, such as plastic or rubber, you have to consider all the specifics of the tool before opting for one.
Additional Features
What else to look for when you pick your squeegee? Two more factors should guide you to the best choice – durability and how easily the tool is handled. If you use your tool frequently, opt for more hard-to-wear materials.
Your squeegee should be easy to store, lightweight for better handling, and portable so you can use it all around the house.
Use the Proper Squeegee Technique
To achieve the desired no-streak-free effect for your clean windows, it is not enough to have the right squeegees. You have to have the proper techniques to make the glass shine. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to achieve flawless results.
Preparation
It’s essential to use a brush and a cloth to wipe the window sill and frame because there is a lot of dirt there that can contaminate the glass and make your task harder.
After you have cleaned those, it’s time to apply the cleaning solution of your choice evenly. Always wet your glasses before cleaning.
Starting Position
Adjust your starting position. Clean from top to bottom by pulling the squeegee downwards, maintaining a straight line. Overlap the strokes to make sure you prevent any streaks.
Blade Angle
Adjust the angle of your squeegee by approximately 10 to 15 degrees to ensure water and cleaning solution are swiped toward the area that is not yet cleaned.
Pressure Control
Your pressure control during the cleaning is essential for a streak-free effect. You must apply even pressure while moving the squeegee blade down the window. It is crucial to push lightly because too much pressure can cause streaks and even glass damage.
Drying the Blade
Remember to wipe your blade after each pass. Using clean, dirt and lint-free cloth or paper towels is a necessity. In this way, you remove any extra water and solution.
Repeat if Necessary
Some windows are dirtier than others, and some are more likely to form streaks. In such cases, more than a single pass with the squeegee will be required. You must repeat or even go multiple times until the glass is clear.
What Are Some Common Mistakes?
Sometimes, some common mistakes that can be easily avoided are what keeps us apart from the desired effect. Read on to learn what they are and avoid them when you executive your cleaning.
Using a Dirty Squeegee
Remember to clean your squeegee blades every time you use them. When you start with a dirty blade, it smears your windows, and the shine streak effect is lost.
Inadequate Preparation
If you forget to apply your cleaning solution or not do it evenly, your squeegee will leave streaks on a dry window. Avoid skipping the cleaning solution, as it is crucial for a spotless outcome.
Pressing Too Hard
Even if your window is filthy, pressing hard on your squeegee will not resolve the situation. On the contrary, you must apply even and light pressure while using your squeegee on the window. It’s the secret to streak-free glass.
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Dirty Frame and Sill
If you neglect cleaning the sill and frame of your window, then dirt can be easily transferred to your window surface, leaving streaks and dirt on your glass. That is one of the most common mistakes.
Incorrect Blade Angle
The right angle for your squeegee is around 10-15 degrees. If you get the wrong angle, you risk water returning to the cleaned area.
How to Replace Squeegee Blades?
Now and again, when your blade wears out, you will have to replace it to maintain the best results. Read some instructions to help you do it on your own.
Identify Blade Wear
Here are some tips if you are wondering when to replace your blade. Firstly, it is time to replace your blade if your squeegee leaves streaks and is less effective than before. Additionally, replacement is due if you see any nicks, tears, or signs of wear on your blade.
Remove Old Blade
Depending on your squeegee model, the blade is demounted by sliding it out of the holder. Most models have a slot where you can slide the blade. When doing so, be careful because it has sharp edges, and you must secure your safety.
Install New Blade
If your new blade needs length adjusting, cut it carefully to the desired size. Then, use the slot to insert the new blade. Ensure it is put in the proper position and that it is put securely.
How to Clean Challenging Window Shapes?
Luckily, although not all windows come in the same shapes, there are tricks to cleaning irregular-shaped glasses that bring the desired results. Arched or circular windows might challenge your skills with the squeegee but don’t worry. Here is how it is done.
Specialized Tools
First and foremost, you need special tools to tackle irregularly shaped windows. Some types of squeegees are specifically made to clean curved windows and keep the correct angle while you are cleaning.
Custom Cut Blades
Consider cutting your blade squeegee edges to fit it for the task. Trimming your blade means you are to use it on that surface exclusively.
Patience and Care
Everyone wants a fast and effective job, but with curved windows, being fast means you’ve done sloppy work. They require more time and precision to be cleaned spotlessly.
What else to have in mind?
You can use window squeegees to clean glass surfaces at home, such as shower doors or mirrors. Whatever surface you tend, you must remember that you need the fitting squeegee for the job and the appropriate techniques.
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The streak-free shine can be easily achieved if you master using a squeegee. It is possible to attain good results for circular or oddly-shaped surfaces and windows – it requires patience and good practices.
Consider hiring professional cleaning services for industrial buildings, business properties, or hard-to-reach windows. They have the best tools and experience to perform an exceeding expectations job.
Finally, the best window cleaning equipment includes the following things:
- Telescopic poles;
- A microfiber sleeve;
Microfiber cloths for drying; - Buckets;
- Mops.
An extension pole will help you reach high surfaces and sometimes save you from using a ladder to wash your windows from the other side.
A Professional Window Cleaner
Sometimes, cleaning windows or a big mirror might need a professional touch. Outside, surfaces accumulate a lot of grime and dirt and need the best window squeegee to tackle the problem.Â
Professional cleaners have a range of cleaning equipment like mops, squeegees, a scrubber, towels, extension poles, brushes, ladders, and other safety gear items. They also use the most appropriate solution for windows, including a custom-made mixture of vinegar and water.
Some Frequent Asked Questions
Do I need to scrub my windows first?
Usually, this is optional. Scrubbing your window mechanically might scratch and damage the glass. The initial purpose of a squeegee is to deal with grime and dirt without harming your window.
Do squeegees clean faster?
The washing speed depends on several factors, but generally, a squeegee cleans faster than a manual approach. Once you have mastered the techniques, you can clean your windows in no time.
Do squeegees need to weigh more to be more effective?
Definitely no. Weight is not directly related to efficiency. Quite the contrary, you need less weight to use your tool comfortably and efficiently.
