Cleaning Windows with Newspaper: Rediscovering a Household Classic
This post may contain affiliate links or Google Ads and we may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no additional cost to you and helps with our website expenses.
Cleaning windows with newspaper is a practice with roots in our grandparents’ era.
This method is a shining example of simplicity in a modern world full of complex, store-bought cleaners and high-tech cleaning tools.
The Tradition of Cleaning Windows with Newspaper
A Glimpse into the Past
Our grandparents knew a thing or two about resourcefulness. Back in their day, people didn’t have access to fancy cleaning supplies, so they got creative with what they had.
Enter the humble newspaper. It wasn’t just a source of news; it doubled as a window cleaner, leaving behind a trail of sparkling clean, streak-free windows.
The Lost Art
Time marched on and the market got flooded with commercial window cleaners. As a result, the art of cleaning windows with newspaper began to fade.
We swapped out this simple solution for ready-made cleaning supplies. But here’s the thing:
- The newspaper was (and still is) cost-effective
- It’s environmentally friendly
- Above all, it does an impressive job
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Windows with Newspaper
Gather Your Materials
Before you start, ensure you have everything you need. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Newspaper: Opt for the black and white pages, as colored ones may have dyes that can stain your window frames.
- A spray bottle: To apply your cleaning solution evenly.
- Cleaning solution: You can make your own solution at home by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water. The vinegar will help to cut through grime, leaving your windows squeaky clean.
The Cleaning Process
Once you have your materials ready, it’s time to dive into the cleaning process. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Crumple Your Newspaper: Start by taking a couple of sheets of newspaper and crumpling them into a ball. You don’t want it too tight; a bit of looseness will create an effective cleaning surface.
- Apply Your Cleaning Solution: Spray your homemade vinegar solution generously onto the window. Ensure the entire window surface is covered, but don’t overdo it to the point of creating drips.
- Wipe with the Newspaper: Grab your crumpled newspaper and start wiping the window. Begin from the top and make your way down to ensure that you don’t miss any spots. Use circular motions to remove stubborn dirt or stains.
- Dry and Polish: After the window is clean, take a fresh newspaper sheet, crumple it, and use it to dry and polish your window. This will give your windows that final, gleaming finish.
And voila! You’ve just cleaned your windows with newspaper. As you can see, this method is incredibly straightforward, and the results might just surprise you.
Why Choose Newspaper? The Surprising Benefits of Newspaper
At first glance, you might wonder how a newspaper could stand a chance against a specially designed window cleaner.
But this unassuming everyday item holds a few aces up its sleeve:
- Inexpensive and Readily Available: Newspapers are typically cheaper than store-bought cleaning products and are usually readily available around the house.
- Absorbent: The porous nature of newspaper makes it exceptionally absorbent, allowing it to soak up the cleaning solution and grime from your windows effectively.
- Streak-Free Finish: Newspapers do not leave lint or streaks on the glass like cloth or paper towels, making for a cleaner finish.
- Minor Abrasive Qualities: The slight roughness of newspaper works as a gentle scrub, helping to remove stubborn dirt and stains.
Newspaper vs. The Rest: Comparing Cleaning Methods
When comparing the use of newspaper with other methods like store-bought cleaners or microfiber cloths, there are a few points worth noting:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Store-bought cleaners and microfiber cloths can add up in cost, especially if you clean frequently. Newspapers, on the other hand, are a more budget-friendly option.
- Eco-Friendliness: Newspapers are biodegradable and can be recycled, making this a green cleaning option. On the contrary, many cleaning products come in plastic packaging which contributes to waste.
- Effectiveness: While store-bought cleaners and microfiber cloths are effective, newspapers can offer similar (if not better) results, especially when it comes to leaving a streak-free finish.
It’s clear to see that cleaning windows with newspaper is more than just an old-fashioned tradition – it’s a smart, sustainable choice that offers a host of benefits.
Myths and Truths About Newspaper Cleaning – Unraveling Misconceptions
There’s no doubt that the idea of cleaning windows with newspaper can raise a few eyebrows. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions:
- Ink Stains: One common worry is that the newspaper ink will stain the window frames or the glass. While it’s a valid concern, it’s mostly unfounded. Most newspapers today use soy-based inks that don’t easily transfer, especially when used on glass.
- Damage to the Glass: Some may fear that newspapers will scratch or damage the glass. However, newspaper is quite gentle and doesn’t have the hardness required to scratch glass. You can confidently scrub away!
Top Tips for Effective Window Cleaning with Newspaper – Expert Advice for Sparkling Windows
Cleaning windows with newspaper isn’t hard, but a few tips can make it even more effective:
- The Right Newspaper: Use black and white pages for cleaning. Colored pages may have different dyes that could potentially transfer onto window frames.
- Adequate Ventilation: If you’re using a vinegar-water solution as your cleaning agent, ensure your space is well-ventilated to avoid the strong vinegar smell.
- Avoid Sunlight: Try to clean your windows on a cloudy day or when your windows are in the shade. Direct sunlight can cause your cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leading to streaks.
- Refresh Your Newspaper Regularly: When your newspaper gets too wet or dirty, switch it out for a fresh one to maintain your cleaning effectiveness.
Wrap Up of Cleaning Windows with Newspaper
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the simple solutions.
Cleaning windows with newspaper is one such gem, a tradition from our grandparents’ era that still holds significant value today.
From its cost-effectiveness to its surprising effectiveness at leaving a streak-free finish, newspaper stands its ground against store-bought cleaners and microfiber cloths.
