Have you ever thought about cleaning windows with newspaper? This age-old method is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, and many people swear by its effectiveness in leaving your windows sparkling clean.
To clean your windows with newspaper, you’ll need just three basic supplies:
- Old newspapers
- Water
- A cleaning solution of your choice (like a mix of water and vinegar)
The process of cleaning windows with newspaper is very straightforward:
- First, you’ll moisten the newspaper with the cleaning solution, ensuring it’s damp but not soaking wet.
- Next, use the dampened newspaper to clean the glass surface in a circular motion, covering the entire area.
- Finally, use a dry section of the newspaper to buff and polish the window, removing any streaks or residue.
So let’s dive deeper into cleaning windows with newspaper, and how not only will you save money on cleaning supplies, but you’ll also be doing your part to reduce waste by repurposing old newspapers.
In This Article
3 Reasons Why You Should Use Newspaper for Cleaning Windows
1. Budget-Friendly Option
Cleaning windows with newspaper is a cost-effective option. Most people have newspapers lying around, so you can save money by not purchasing a specific window cleaning tool.
Additionally, newspapers have high absorption capacity, allowing them to soak up all the window cleaning solution without spending extra on paper towels or cloth.
2. Environmentally Friendly
Newspapers are biodegradable and recyclable. By repurposing your old newspapers for window cleaning, you prevent waste and give a second life to these materials.
Compared to using synthetic cleaning cloths or disposable paper products, newspapers are an eco-conscious alternative for keeping your windows spotless.
3. Reduced Streaking
One significant advantage of using newspapers for cleaning windows is their ability to leave minimal streaks behind. The fibers in newspapers are more tightly woven than those in paper towels or cleaning cloths, ensuring a smooth, lint-free finish on glass surfaces.
To efficiently clean your windows with a newspaper, follow these steps:
- Scrunch the newspaper into a ball, making sure to avoid ink-heavy sections.
- Spray your window with a mixture of water and vinegar or your preferred glass cleaner.
- Wipe the window using circular motions with the newspaper, allowing it to absorb the cleaning solution.
- Repeat these steps as necessary until your window is clean and streak-free.
Be mindful that some newspaper ink may leave residue on your hands when used for cleaning. To avoid this, wear gloves during the process.
Materials Needed to Clean Windows with Newspaper
Used Newspaper
When cleaning windows with newspaper, it’s essential to have a stack of used newspapers on hand. Old newspapers are ideal because the ink has dried, reducing the chances of it smearing on your windows.
Collect several pages, scrunch them into balls, and keep them within easy reach. You can also ask friends or neighbors for their old newspapers, or you can visit your local recycling center.
Using newspapers is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to paper towels and microfiber cloths.
Water and Vinegar Solution
A water and vinegar solution is an effective, natural cleaning agent for your windows. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a bucket or spray bottle.
The vinegar helps to break down dirt and grime, leaving your windows streak-free and sparkling. This solution is also an excellent option for those looking to avoid harsh chemicals and reduce their environmental impact.
Bucket or Spray Bottle
Depending on your preferred method of application, you’ll need either a bucket or a spray bottle for your water and vinegar solution. A spray bottle works well for smaller windows or if you want more control over the amount of cleaning solution applied to the glass.
A bucket is suitable for larger windows or if you’re cleaning multiple windows at once.
Rubber Gloves
It’s a good idea to wear rubber gloves when cleaning windows with newspaper and a vinegar solution. Gloves provide both grip and protection against the vinegar, which can be slightly irritating to sensitive skin.
They also help to keep your hands clean throughout the process and prevent ink from old newspapers from staining your fingers.
By gathering the right materials and following a proper cleaning technique, you’ll be well on your way to achieving sparkling windows using a tried-and-tested method.
The Cleaning Process: 3 Easy Steps to Success
1. Prepare the Window Cleaning Solution
To start cleaning windows with newspaper, you’ll first need to prepare a suitable cleaning solution. Combine equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, making sure to mix them well. This vinegar and water solution is perfect for cutting through dirt, grime, and streaks on glass surfaces.
2. Apply the Solution
Next, spray the solution generously onto the window glass surface. Be sure to cover the entire area with the mixture, taking care to avoid spraying nearby furniture or walls. Let the solution sit for a few moments to help break down any stubborn stains or dirt buildup.
3. Wipe the Window with Newspaper
Now, take a sheet of newspaper and crumple it into a ball. Gently rub the newspaper over the glass, working in a circular motion. This technique will remove the dirt, grime, and vinegar solution from the window.
Switch to a clean newspaper sheet when the one you’re using becomes dirty or soaked. This will prevent spreading stains or smudges. Continue wiping until the entire surface has been cleaned.
Remember to focus on corners and edges, as these areas often accumulate grime. You’ll notice the newspaper does an excellent job of leaving your windows streak-free and clean.
3 Pro Tips for Getting the Best Results
When it comes to cleaning windows with newspaper, it is essential to follow specific techniques to get the best results.
Proper Folding Technique
Before you start cleaning your windows, fold the newspaper properly. Use several sheets to form a thick pad that is easy to grip. You should fold it in a way that the printer’s ink is not exposed to avoid smudging on your hands and the window.
Keep extra newspaper nearby, so you have a fresh, ink-free surface to work with when needed.
Handling Wet Newspaper
Newspaper tends to get soggy when wet, making it challenging to clean effectively. To prevent this issue, wet the windows with a spray bottle of water or window cleaner before wiping with the newspaper.
Keep your newspaper pad slightly damp, but not soaked, and switch to a new pad when it becomes too wet or torn.
Ideal Weather Conditions
Believe it or not, weather plays a role in cleaning windows with newspaper. Aim to clean your windows on a cloudy day or when the glass is not hot. Direct sunlight can cause the cleaner to evaporate too quickly, leaving streaks on the window.
Similarly, in cold temperatures window cleaner can freeze, making it hard to work with. So, pick a day with mild, overcast weather for the most effective window cleaning experience.
Alternatives to Newspaper
While cleaning windows with newspaper is a traditional method, there are more effective and eco-friendly alternatives for achieving streak-free, sparkling windows. In this section, we’ll discuss two popular alternatives: microfiber cloths and squeegees.
Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are an excellent choice for cleaning windows, as they are highly absorbent and leave your windows lint-free. To use a microfiber cloth, simply follow these steps:
- Dampen it with your preferred window cleaner
- Wipe your windows in a circular motion
The cloth’s tiny fibers will effectively pick up dirt and dust without leaving any streaks behind. Moreover, microfiber cloths are reusable and machine washable, making them an environmentally friendly option compared to using newspaper.
Window Squeegee
Another popular alternative to cleaning windows with newspaper is using a window squeegee.
Squeegees come in various sizes and help you achieve a professional-looking, streak-free finish on your windows. To use a squeegee, follow these steps:
- Prepare your window cleaner solution: Mix water and a few drops of dish soap in a bucket or spray bottle.
- Apply the cleaning solution: Generously apply the cleaning solution to your window with a sponge, cloth, or directly from the spray bottle.
- Use the squeegee: Make sure the squeegee’s blade is clean and free from damage. Start at the top corner of the window and move the squeegee across the windowpane horizontally, wiping the blade after each pass. When the entire surface is clean, make a final vertical pass on the edge to remove any remaining water.
By using one of these alternatives, you can achieve excellent results in a more sustainable and effective way than cleaning windows with newspaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cleaning windows with newspaper can be surprisingly effective and eco-friendly. Newspapers are highly absorbent, making them great for drying windows and leaving a streak-free finish.
Moreover, they are relatively cheap and can be easily recycled, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Yes, vinegar can be used in combination with newspaper for window cleaning. Simply mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the glass surface and wipe it down with a crumpled piece of newspaper, using circular motions.
This method is effective in removing grime and hard water stains.
For the best results, clean your windows on a cloudy day to prevent the cleaning solution from drying too quickly.
- First, use a soft brush to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- Next, spray your chosen cleaning solution onto the glass surface.
- Finally, use a crumpled piece of newspaper to wipe the glass in circular or vertical motions, making sure to regularly switch to a clean portion of the newspaper.
While it is unlikely for newspaper to scratch glass surfaces, be cautious with older newspapers, as they may contain harder particles that could potentially cause scratches. To minimize the risk, use newer publications that are smoother, and make sure to remove any dirt or debris from the glass surface before cleaning.
If you prefer not to use newspapers, alternatives include microfiber cloths, squeegees, or even coffee filters. These options can also provide effective and streak-free window cleaning results. For more, here are the best window cleaning tools you can buy.
Most standard glass cleaning products, such as Windex, can be used effectively with newspapers. Additionally, homemade solutions like water and white vinegar or water and a few drops of dish soap can work well.
Simply spray your chosen cleaning solution onto the window, and wipe it clean using a crumpled newspaper.
Final Thoughts on Cleaning Windows with Newspaper
Cleaning windows with newspaper has its benefits, and you might find it to be an effective alternative to traditional cleaning supplies. By using newspaper to clean your windows, you are repurposing an item that would otherwise be discarded.
This method can also save money as it removes the need for purchasing specialized window cleaning products.
One significant advantage of this old-fashioned method is that newspapers effectively leave windows streak-free. The dense fiber composition of newspapers efficiently absorbs and removes cleaning solutions without leaving any residue behind.
For optimal results, remember to always use a crumpled newspaper instead of a flat sheet. This helps you get a better grip on the paper and provides more cleaning surface area. Crumpled newspapers also provide better access to tight corners and window edges.
Keep in mind that while newspapers do an excellent job on glass surfaces, they might not be suitable for all types of windows. In case your windows have special coatings or treatments, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines to ensure you’re not damaging the surface.
Ken Lyons is one of the founding members of Cleaner Digs. He is also the senior editor and contributing author. Ken has owned and operated two cleaning companies in the past: one commercial and one that serviced residential customers. He writes for Clean Digs to share his professional expertise on cleaning and organization. He's been a fastidious cleaning nut and writing about it for more than a decade.
