When Mr. Proper is on vacation, or what is a good window mop

Rednasty September 17, 2016I'm not a wizard, I'm just learning. But I know everything about interior styles, comfortable home improvement and the transformation of Khrushchev’s apartments into luxury apartments. Hobbies: I like to give good advice.

How can you significantly simplify the cleaning process and reduce the effort spent on it? What is a professional window squeegee and what is its role in this task? You will find out the answers to these questions below.

Special mops for windows are designed to make the cleaning process easier and reduce its duration.

Classification of professional mops

Window squeegees were created to make the cleaning process easier and more efficient, as well as to remove residual dirt even in hard-to-reach places. Regardless of the model of the device (household or professional), such a cleaning stick is equipped with a sponge or microfiber attachment, a handle and a rubber scraper.

You don’t have to work for a cleaning company to use professional tools

To be honest, after studying the variety of modern cleaning products, I was amazed at their practicality and functionality. Today I would like to talk about professional models that can be incredibly useful in everyday life. They are divided into three types:

• telescopic;
• steam;
• magnetic.

I will talk about each of these miracle mops in more detail.

Telescopic

Telescopic mop allows you to conveniently adjust the length and angle of the handle

The telescopic mop for cleaning windows outside and inside is equipped with a special handle with a lock. Due to this, you can conveniently adjust the length and angle of the device. It is thanks to this innovation that washing windows from the outside has become much easier: after all, now you can wash the outer part of the facade without leaning out of the window.

The handle itself has a controlled length, usually its working range ranges between 50 and 200 cm. The device is also equipped with two attachments:

• made of microfiber, which is used for wet cleaning;
• with a rubber blade that helps remove residual moisture from the surface.

With such a device, even high windows are not a problem

In my opinion, this is a fairly convenient and practical “washing stick”. It has not yet been possible to find out what its service life is, but at least at first it copes well with the task.

How to use

The process of using a telescopic mop is quite simple. You need:

1. Change the length of the handle according to your height.
2. Adjust the tilt angle of the device so that you can easily reach any part of the window.
3. Wash the glass surface using both nozzles alternately.
4. After cleaning, wash the attachments with detergent and leave them to dry.

Under no circumstances should you leave the mop to dry on the radiator. This will quickly deteriorate its components.

Steam cleaner

Steam brush - a kind of vacuum cleaner for windows

I think it’s already clear from the name that a steam mop cleans surfaces under the influence of steam. This window cleaning device is equipped with a water tank, a working attachment in the form of a small pillow with lint, and the steam generator itself.

I consider the main disadvantage of such a mop to be the non-adjustable length of the handle, but one of the advantages I can highlight is the ability to tidy up other surfaces (carpets, floors) if you purchase additional attachments.

Additional attachments allow you to use the steam cleaner even when cleaning around the house

The cleaning process occurs due to an adjustable jet of steam directed at the glass, which not only removes dirt from the window, but also disinfects it.

How to use

The instructions for using a steam mop are as follows:

1. Pour a small amount of water into the reservoir.
2. Before cleaning the window, set the desired temperature. To wash off hardened dirt from the surface, you will need the highest possible steam supply. A medium level is enough to clean glass from ordinary dust.
3. Connect the mop to the mains, wait until the liquid boils.
4. Wash the window.

Adjust the temperature depending on the degree of surface contamination

1. After cleaning, unused water should be poured out of the reservoir, the device itself, along with the nozzle, should be rinsed and dried.

Magnetic

A magnetic mop is a device consisting of two brushes with large bristles on magnets. By placing the halves of the device on both sides of the glass, you get the opportunity to wash both halves of the window at the same time. The magnets located on the brushes are so strongly attracted to each other that even thick double-glazed windows will not matter to them.

The magnetic brush (pictured) makes it possible to wash the window on both sides at the same time

When purchasing a device, carefully look at the characteristics, since not every model can cope with double-glazed windows!

How to use

How to use a magnetic mop to achieve the most effective results? The operating principle is as follows:

1. Apply a small amount of detergent to both sides of the window.
2. Rotate the brushes 90 degrees to release their pull.
3. Using the fabric side, dip the attachments into the soapy solution.
4. Before cleaning the surface, attach the brushes to both sides of the glass unit. To prevent the outer attachment from falling off during cleaning, tie it to your wrist using the thin long cord that comes with the kit.

You will no longer need to take risks and lean out of the window to reach the farthest corners

1. Using the inner brush, start washing the window; the outer part of the mop will automatically follow the path of movement, thereby cleaning the glass on the other side.
2. Periodically rinse the lint on the nozzles and continue manipulations until the window is completely clean.

As you can see, thanks to this device, you can easily wash double-glazed windows of any size with your own hands, even at great heights, without the risk of falling out of the window.

Care Tips

After cleaning, it is important to rinse the device thoroughly

In order for the brush to serve for a long time, you need to follow the rules of storage and care. After finishing work, rinse the mop thoroughly to remove any remaining detergent. Then you need to dry the work surface and wipe the base of the product with a dry cloth.

The product should only be stored out of the reach of children to prevent the brush from breaking.

A window cleaning brush makes cleaning much easier and saves a lot of time. There are several types of devices, each of which has a number of advantages and disadvantages. To choose a good option, you need to study in advance the characteristics of the devices and consumer reviews, of which there are quite a lot on the Internet.

The most inexpensive are telescopic brushes, which are the most popular. Long-term use of glass cleaning brushes can ensure proper care and compliance with the rules of use.

*Prices are current as of September 2022.

Criterias of choice

To decide and choose a good mop that meets all your requirements, I recommend taking into account the following nuances:

To avoid regretting your purchase, choose a mop model responsibly

• choose a device, taking into account first of all the size of the window, the degree of contamination or the presence of hard-to-reach places;
• Plastic or windows with solid frames are best washed using a magnetic or telescopic brush. The steam mop does not have an adjustable handle function, which makes it difficult to properly clean outside corners;
• Glass that faces a busy terrace, or that quickly accumulates a lot of dust, is best cleaned with a steam brush.

I would like to remind you that when thinking about which mop is best for cleaning windows, do not forget about the importance of a high-quality squeegee. Please inspect the attachment carefully before purchasing. It should be elastic and even, but in no case too hard.

Vacuum cleaner for cleaning the structure

Today, a vacuum cleaner for washing is gaining great popularity. It is used for walls, doorways and many other surfaces. The principle of operation is simple - clean water goes to the structure and immediately, along with the dirt, the trunk sucks everything back. No smudges or streaks. Naturally, they are convenient for cleaning windows, but not all companies equip the vacuum cleaner with a window attachment. For example, the German manufacturer Thomas provides housewives with this opportunity.

This vacuum cleaner has an adapter with microfiber cloths installed on it. They are installed on the carpet nozzle and the window is cleaned strip by strip.

If we talk about the advantages and disadvantages, a vacuum cleaner is an environmentally friendly tool that will thoroughly clean the entire surface. As for the disadvantages, you need to get used to the tool, and for this you need to move quickly so that the used water has time to be sucked back into the trunk.

Review of popular models

To make it easier for you to decide on a purchase, below I will describe several of the most popular and sought-after models of miracle mops.

Choose the length of the handle depending on the size of your windows

1. The device is made in Austria and costs approximately 1,500 rubles. A mop with a telescopic handle for cleaning windows has removable heads made of rubber and microfiber, which are firmly attached to the device using a special lock. The length of the handle is adjustable from 75 cm to 140 cm.
2. Steam Mop X6. Steam mop, the price of which fluctuates around 3,000 rubles. Equipped with 4 levels of steam supply, as well as nozzles for washing glass surfaces, furniture, cleaning dust, floors and more. The power cord reaches 6 meters, which makes working with the mop even more convenient. The volume of the liquid reservoir is 400 ml.

Many additional attachments make the Steam Mop X6 a good purchase

1. Leifheit 51120. “Washing stick” made in Germany, the cost of which is approximately 3500 rubles. The length of the handle with a rotating mechanism is adjustable from 110 cm to 190 cm. The device also makes it possible to wash the window and frame at the same time.
2. Glass Wiper. Magnetic brush made in China. There are 4 types of models, for windows of different widths. The price for the simplest brush (for glass 3-6 mm) starts from 1,500 rubles.
3. A Swedish product with a telescopic handle, costing about 2,500 rubles. The nozzle is attached to the base using strong Velcro; the kit also includes a rubber scraper. The length of the handle is adjustable from 60 to 130 centimeters.

For your convenience, choose nozzles with a maximum angle of inclination

I reviewed only the most popular mop models, which have received many positive reviews, but you can choose other models based on your needs or financial capabilities. You can get even more information about miracle mops from the video in this article.

Flaws

Magnetic devices are available in different modifications.
The more powerful the magnets, the thicker the glass they are designed for. The price of these devices depends on this. For double-glazed windows with glass thickness over 20 mm, it is quite high. This is the biggest disadvantage of magnetic brushes. But you shouldn’t refuse such an acquisition. By purchasing a unique device, you will greatly facilitate the work associated with washing windows. Another disadvantage is that the magnetic device does not clean the most inaccessible places well enough. However, if you wash the glass regularly, this problem will disappear on its own. It is much easier to remove fresh contaminants than existing ones.

Folk remedies for washing windows and mirrors

Vinegar effectively cleans mirrors and windows

Home methods are appropriate for those who want to use natural and budget-friendly cleaning methods. All the components will be “at hand” in the house, but for high-quality cleaning you will have to make an effort.

The most accessible detergent recipes:

• Ammonia. Dilute 1 tbsp. l. alcohol in a glass of boiled water. Pour the resulting liquid into a bottle and distribute it over the surface with a spray bottle. Be prepared for a strong unpleasant odor. After cleaning, do not forget to ventilate the room.
• Vinegar. 2 tbsp. l. dilute in 1 liter of warm water. The composition will help clean mirrors and make them shine.
• Milk. A cloth soaked in this product will give the mirror a shine. First wipe the glass surface with milk and then dry with a napkin or cloth.
• Shaving foam or laundry conditioner will protect the mirror from fogging. Apply the selected liquid to a rag, treat the mirror with it, and then rub the surface with a dry rag or napkin.
• Tooth powder or chalk. 3 tbsp. l. pour one glass of warm water, stir to form a paste. Clean the surface with a cloth containing this solution, then rub dry.

Rules for washing using a special device

Homemade glass brushes are easy to use. Before you start cleaning, you need to ensure easy access to the windows. To do this, remove unnecessary objects from windows and near window openings.

Procedure:

1. Set the length of the telescopic handle taking into account the height of the window and your height. Secure the mechanism to the desired position. Taking into account your position, you should change the angle of the mop (working attachment).
2. Soak the sponge attachment in the cleaning solution.
3. Wash away dirt, working smoothly and effortlessly. You can move the brush not only from top to bottom, but also at an angle.
4. After cleaning the glass, the mop is turned to the other side to remove water and cleaning solution. In this case, you need to move the nozzle either at an angle or clearly from top to bottom, starting from the top corner.
5. Repeat on all panes of the window opening.
6. Rinse the brush before storing it.

You should do the sweeping immediately, before the soapy water has dried on the window.

Frequent types of breakdowns

The most common breakdowns are mainly due to the fact that the product wears out. If the nozzles become unusable, it is best to replace them. Users also note that breakdowns of retractable mechanisms and fasteners occur. In this case, you will probably need to replace the entire mop, or, if possible, just the rod. However, with proper operation, practically no problems arise.

A mop for cleaning windows is a very convenient thing that will help make the process comfortable. Even a novice housewife can handle these.

What kind of detergent to wash windows with - ready-made and available products

Which window cleaner should I choose? It's very simple - the detergent can be anything (not necessarily special for glass).

Modern synthetic products are available in the form of powder, gel or paste. Their range on the market is huge and there is no point in singling out a specific product and manufacturer, since the final choice of detergent can be made based on brand awareness, reviews on specialized forums and recommendations of consultants in the store. Therefore, we will pay more attention to detergent compositions that can be prepared at home from improvised means.

Alternative window cleaners

Alternative homemade window cleaners:

• To give glass shine and shine, you can use regular chalk. To do this, you need to crush it and dissolve the powder in a proportion of 2 - 3 tablespoons per 1 glass of water. The glass is wiped with a chalk solution and after drying, the coating is cleaned with a dry cloth, napkin or newspaper.
• If you have wooden frames on the windows, then you should use a liquid cleaner, a soap solution or a mixture of water and ammonia in a proportion of 2 tablespoons per 1 liter of water. It is not recommended to use soda - it dulls painted wooden frames.
• An alternative method, if there is no store-bought window cleaner, involves using vinegar (3 tablespoons per 1 liter of water) or regular dishwashing detergent, heavily diluted with water. After roughly cleaning the stains, the product is applied to the glass and wiped dry (you can use crumpled newspaper or paper napkins instead of special rags).
• A simple but expensive method. For quick work, you can use wet wipes that are designed specifically for washing windows and mirrors. The wipes wash away dirt fairly quickly and do not leave streaks. If you have to wash a lot of windows frequently, this method can be quite expensive.
• An original way to wash windows. Potatoes can also be used to clean dirt from glass. It will replace detergent. Before working, you need to cut the potatoes in half. Dirt from the glass is removed by cutting, and when the potato juice runs out, you can cut off another small piece. After complete treatment, it is recommended to wipe the window with a damp cloth and wipe dry.
• Using fabric softener. With this method, you will need to take 4 parts water (it’s convenient to use a cap) and 1 part conditioner. The glass is washed with the resulting solution and then wiped dry.

Battery capacity

As mentioned, the steam washer is a cordless device.
This is a convenient, mobile device that can be taken anywhere and used far outside the home.

The basis for the operation of a steam cleaner is, of course, the battery.

Pay special attention to its capacity. The higher the battery capacity, the better

Why? First of all, because it is this parameter that determines the operating time of the windshield wiper. It takes several tens of minutes to wash all the windows in an apartment, which means you need to beware of equipment whose battery, after charging, cannot last even ten minutes.

Such a tool will be useless if you are not going to wash the windows in just one room. Of course, every battery loses capacity over time. This applies to all devices in principle, not just the windshield wiper. Therefore, there is no point in buying a steam washer with an initially low-capacity battery.

It should also be taken into account that the battery takes time to fully charge

It is important, however, that charging does not take too long. Standard charging takes about 4-6 hours

If it lasts longer, too much electricity is consumed, which is completely unprofitable. In addition, it negatively affects the ease of use of the device.

You may be interested in: Steam cleaner for the home. Rating of the best, tips for choosing

Do I need an extra battery?

The ability to replace the battery is a very practical feature. Thanks to it, the service life of the device increases significantly. But it all depends on the specific manufacturer. In many devices, the battery is installed permanently, without the possibility of replacement. If it breaks, you will simply have to purchase a new device. Replacing the battery with a new one will cost much less. But of course, models equipped with an additional battery tend to be more expensive.

The removable battery is easier to charge. Simply disconnect it from the device.

What is the best way to wash glass?

Special window cleaners remove dirt well

When washing glazed openings, it is important to remove dust, dirt, and cobwebs from them without leaving soapy streaks or water streaks. Use products specifically designed for this purpose.

Store-bought aerosols Mister Muscle, Amway, OpticShine, Frosch are effective, easy to use, but sometimes cause allergies and are sprayed at a distance of no more than 30 cm, which is not always suitable for doors that cannot be opened.

Products diluted with water from manufacturers HG, Karcher, Help are more convenient. They are concentrated, so they have low consumption, are mixed with warm water and applied with a sponge or poured into a special technique. Basically, they are environmentally friendly, but when using it is better to wear rubber gloves; they clean the surface efficiently and do not require rinsing.

Instead of store-bought ones, you can use accessible and inexpensive folk remedies prepared from familiar ingredients. Add a spoonful of starch, 1 ml of ammonia or a glass of vinegar to 1 liter of water. Each of these solutions will provide shine and cleanliness.