Wednesday, September 7, 2011

How Clean are Your Windows?

Down to Earth host, Andrea Ridout, was a guest on Fox 4's Good Day Show this morning. Thanks to Central Market and Home Depot for providing us with samples to demonstrate. We learned easy and fun ways to clean our windows for fall - with an eco-friendly twist. Andrea offered great tips and information on some handy products. Click here to watch! 

ANDREA'S TIPS:
~ MAKE YOUR OWN window cleaner at home from our recipes below.
~ USE A "Z" MOTION across the window, then go around the border, rather than round in circles. 
~ VINEGAR is a non-toxic and effective ingredient for window cleaning
~ DETER STREAKING AND LINT by using crumpled  newspaper or a micro-fiber cloth
~ AVOID washing exterior windows in high wind or in direct sunlight
~ FOR HARD TO REACH WINDOWS, try a telescoping pole with cleaning attachments.

~ APPLY CLEANING SOLUTION dirtectly to pads and cloths to avoid spray dispersing into the air. Not only will this help your product last longer, it is also safer for the environment. Take care using vinegar around outdoor plants as it can kill the leaves; in large quantities it can kill the plant. Be cautious of any spray, (particularly with chemicals) getting on pets, backyard chickens and other birds and wildlife.


RECIPES:
~ Make a great all-purpose window cleaner by combining 1/4 cup vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon liquid soap or detergent, and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. Shake lightly to mix.
Adding a dab of dish soap to the vinegar and water will help remove the buildup from years of using commercial cleaners.

~ Also try mixing 2 cups of hot water with 1/4 cup of vinegar and a tablespoon of cornstarch. The vinegar gets the window clean, but it's that little bit of cornstarch that really gives it the shine!