One of the best ways to boost the light in your home – and your mood – during fall and winter is polishing your windows. It's so simple, but it can have a profound effect on the amount of light that floods your home on even the darkest days.
This chore is far from rocket science; however, our cleaning experts say there's one little-known glycerin trick that can really remove dust and dirt, and make them sparkle and shine for longer.
Here, they share their cleaning tips for lasting results.
Why Does Glycerin Work to Clean Windows?
To find out more about this clever way to clean windows and cleaning with glycerin, I spoke to Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare.
'Glycerin is one of those tried and true tips that works beautifully for window cleaning in the fall and winter,' he says. 'It not only cleans the glass, but it creates a microscopic layer that repels dust, fingerprints, and condensation.
'That thin film keeps your windows clearer longer and allows more natural light to come into your home when the days become shorter,' helping to combat SAD, particularly when paired with decor to boost your mood.
What's more, Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, adds that glycerin, such as the bestselling Equate Pure Vegetable Based Liquid Glycerin Oil available at Walmart, is mild and non-toxic, making it an ideal non-toxic cleaning supply if you're striving to make a home less toxic, and proving that you don't need harsh cleaning chemicals to clean well.
'It leaves a barely-there layer that resists dust and fog,' she adds. 'That means no hazy film or condensation, just a smooth, streak-free shine. The clearer your windows, the more natural light can flow in, which is especially welcome on those dark, gray fall afternoons.'
How to Clean Windows with Glycerin
To make a safe, streak-free DIY cleaning solution, Isabella Flores, cleaning expert at Sparkly Maid San Diego, advises, 'Mix one quart, or about one liter, of warm water with two to three drops of pure vegetable glycerin [available at Amazon]. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle, or use a clean, soft microfiber cloth dipped in the mixture.'
For this, we recommend the Great Value Multipurpose Microfiber Household Cleaning Cloth available at Walmart.
'Wipe the glass with the cleaner while working from top to bottom,' continues Isabella. 'Then, buff the windows with a clean, dry, soft microfiber cloth to absorb any remaining moisture. The glass will be crystal clear and will prevent dust from settling,' working as a homemade cleaning spray to repel dust.
You can also, as Scott suggests, add a few drops of mild dish soap to your cleaning solution, such as the Dreft Plant-Based Liquid Dish Soap available at Walmart, or use a squeegee to wipe your homemade window cleaner across the glass.
'Use long, even strokes from top to bottom, wiping the rubber blade with a clean cloth after each pass,' advises Karina.
Additional Tips for Brighter Winter Windows
To further brighten a room with a low ceiling, Isabella suggests, 'Start by thoroughly cleaning windows, screens, sills, and frames of dirt and cobwebs. Clean windows on a non-sunny day, as it is better to avoid streaks from rapid drying.
'In winter, try to avoid heavy curtains or dusty blinds that inhibit natural light. Mirrors or other reflective décor placed near the newly cleaned glass can help to reflect light and ultimately add a brighter feeling to an entire room.'
Additionally, Karina recommends trimming nearby shrubs or tree branches, as 'clear sight lines mean more light can actually reach your windows,' and using light-colored curtain ideas. 'Heavy or dark drapes block sunlight even on clear days,' she explains.
What to Shop
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
This vegetable glycerin is multi-purpose, versatile, and Non-GMO Project Verified.
This squeegee is designed for optimum functionality, with a 10-inch wide rubber blade, ergonomic design, and lightweight handle.
Prefer to buy in bulk? This pure and natural glycerin is available in a one gallon bottle, for use all around the house.
This extendable duster is ideal for banishing cobwebs up high and down low from around your windows.
These microfiber cloths are machine washable, reusable, lint-free, and super absorbent.
These spray bottles are ideal for mixing up your homemade cleaning solutions, as the amber glass provides UV-protection to prevent ingredients degrading.
Meet the Experts
'It's amazing what clean windows can do to the feeling of warmth and welcome in a room, especially those days when sunlight can be lacking,' says Scott, and we completely agree.
You can also handily use any leftover glycerin for stain removal.
