Cleaning Windows with Tap Water

Have you ever wiped down your windows only to find that when they dried, there were water spots and streaks? It may not have been your technique, but the type of water used. Tap water is safe for drinking and can be used for cleaning other surfaces, however it is not suitable for cleaning glass. Taking the time to clean windows without having them look dingy afterwards requires using the right type of water. Find out why tap water isn't ideal and what should be used instead in order to achieve professional results when cleaning windows.

Tap Water Isn’t the Best option for a Window Cleaning

Tap water may appear to be free of debris but actually contains sediment that can cause a lack of shine on windows. Depending on the region, tap water may have higher or lower mineral levels. Water in the western part of the U.S. usually has more calcium, magnesium, sodium, and copper than other sections while southern areas tend to have moderate to low amounts present. Tap water also tends to be too acidic which makes it difficult for dirt and grime to be lifted off windows; adding a water softener helps alleviate this issue but will not remove all mineral sediment leading to spots and streaks. So what should you use? Distilled water is an effective way of purifying tap water as it involves evaporating it and collecting condensation which separates minerals from the liquid altogether.

Purify Tap Water for Window Cleaning

You can make your own pure water for your windows at home by distilling, installing a reverse osmosis system, or purchasing an ionizing machine or bio-ceramic filter. To distill water using a pot and ice, start by putting 8 cups of water in the larger pot with the smaller one inside. Place the lid upside down on top so that condensation will drip into the smaller pot. Put some ice on the lid to help speed up condensation. Finally, turn on the stove and monitor it closely to replace water as needed to avoid damage to cookware.
 
Reverse osmosis is a process where pressure is used to force water molecules through a semi-permeable membrane that prevents large sediment particles from passing through. This method allows for purification of tap water, resulting in crystal clear windows. To do this at home, you must install an RO system and run your tap water through it.
​
Another purifying technique which can remove sediment from the water is ionization. An ionizing machine or bio-ceramic filters can be used to achieve this effect at home; the process utilizes magnetism to extract minerals and increase the alkalinity of the water, allowing it to more effectively lift dirt and grime from windows leaving them spotless and streak-free.

Professional Window Cleaning Services

​If you want to spend your time and energy on something more pleasurable than making your own purified water, reach out to the local cleaning experts. They specialize in keeping windows shining, both inside and outside.  You can find them online and often they can offer combination packages including exterior house wash, pressure washing, gutter cleaning, and even solar cleaning.  They are your one stop service to keep your whole place looking great!

We have more information about window cleaning from the pros.  Read this article.