Streak-free window cleaning cloth - which one is better to choose?

Modern cleaning materials are so strikingly different from Soviet gray rags that one cannot even dare to call them so disparagingly. But we will step over ourselves, since many of you, out of habit, are looking on the Internet for information specifically about rags, meaning by rags effective absorbent napkins and mops.

In this article we will organize a real battle of modern rags. Let's find out which ones are best used for wiping surfaces, which ones are best for wet and dry cleaning of floors, which ones are best for car care, and which ones are best not to buy.

Cheap means useless: a few words in defense of ordinary rags

Let's get this straight - we're not trying to convince you that you should only buy fancy microfiber cloths. Soviet gray rags made from batting can also be useful to you, as well as budget wiping material made from cheap waffle fabric.

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From left to right - batting rag and waffle fabric

► Short-lived batting, for example, perfectly absorbs large volumes of water. A cheap cotton rag for 30-50 rubles (rags) is useful for cleaning large volumes of dirty liquid, in which you are unlikely to want to stain an effective absorbent microfiber cloth for 100-1000+ rubles.

► Thin waffle fabric will not “survive” even one wash in a washing machine, but due to the low price of 20-30 rubles per linear meter, this shortcoming can be easily forgiven. As well as the inability to wipe surfaces without streaks and residual wet marks. Because with its help you will remove up to 90% of contaminants dissolved in water using the “wet” method, simplifying the task with a microfiber cloth for 100-1000+ rubles.

Napkins made of batting and waffle fabric are the best option for the initial cleaning of contaminated surfaces. They will not serve you for long, but will help to significantly extend the “life” of much more expensive wipes for final wiping of surfaces.

Watch our video in which we tested cleaning wipes made from 8 different materials:

Reasons for the appearance of streaks on glass

Stains, stains or deposits remain on glass and mirrors for various reasons.

Even with perfect cleaning, cloudy traces may remain, and this is due to the following reasons:

1. Washing glass in hot weather and exposure to sunlight leads to rapid evaporation of moisture, which causes streaks to form. Therefore, experts do not recommend washing windows in hot weather.
2. Wrong glass cleaning products chosen. Products containing low-quality ingredients leave cloudy stains. If you decide to use an abrasive cleaner to clean your glass, be prepared not only for cloudy marks, but also for scratches.
3. Wrong cleaning method.

If you do not first clean the windows from the dust that has accumulated on them, after cleaning, streaks and stains may remain on the glass. To avoid stains and streaks, it is important to choose the right glass cleaning technology and means.

What rags are best for dusting and washing floors?

Modern rags for floor cleaning are called mops, and housewives simply call them replaceable mop heads. More than 80% of mops are made of microfiber, the rest are mixed (cotton with polyester) or synthetic/natural (acrylic or cotton).

Microfiber attachments, compared to cleaning cloths, have thicker fibers, from which solid or cut loops are formed. Some nozzles have abrasive inclusions designed to remove dried-on dirt. On sale you can also find advanced mops with polyamide slip strips for quickly washing smooth surfaces.

Looped microfiber nozzles with loops of different lengths are designed for washing floor coverings. For dry cleaning of floors and dusting of walls, we recommend using mops with long split loops made of acrylic or cotton and polyester.

► Note: the mop can be attached to the working platform of the mop using two pockets, Velcro, “ears” or buttons.

1 - split acrylic, 2 - split cotton-polyester, 3 - universal split microfiber, 4 - loop microfiber with slip stripes, 5 - microfiber with medium-length loops, 6, 7 and 8 - combined loop, 9 - Kentucky, 10 - abrasive

Read more about modern mops and mops in our large article “Washing floors correctly: life hacks for wet cleaning and choosing equipment.”

Select an option

Each housewife chooses the best option for herself , guided by the following factors:

• price;
• duration of service;
• ease of use;
• the duration of the window cleaning process itself.

The cheapest option is to use rags or sponges. But the window cleaning process will in this case take longer than when using a microfiber cloth or artificial suede.

Store-bought rags for cleaning windows - artificial suede and microfiber - have a fairly long service life . But only if you purchase quality products.

Latex, cellulose, cotton and rayon are impractical choices, especially when you need to clean quickly, thoroughly, and with just a rag.

Little tricks for every housewife

Since there are a lot of people in the world who have washed windows before, of course, there are some rules and tricks that greatly simplify this process. Some may be familiar to almost everyone, and some not everyone can think of. For example, that you need to wash windows in cloudy weather. Why?! Yes, because the sun can interfere, and because of it, the moisture dries out faster, and then what you didn’t have time to wipe off turns into either stains or unpleasant drops. But, of course, you can’t do this even in the rain, so choosing a time is quite difficult.

Or the fact that it is better to stock up on several rags for different stains. If part of the window is very dirty and another part is not very dirty, it is worth dividing the window into these zones to be sure that no streaks will occur. Of course, some products can help with larger stains, but it’s better not to take risks. Also, many people ask why you can’t use dish soap to clean windows. The answer is actually quite simple. The concepts of washing windows and dishes themselves vary greatly, and products are created specifically for them. For dishes you need more foam, and for the window you need to save time in order to get rid of chemicals and stains as quickly as possible.

Selecting a suitable rag is quite easy - either by your own experience or by its properties. Microfiber is quite popular now and works well for this task. But don’t write off cotton rags, suede or flannel. It's better to try and choose according to your needs. It is worth choosing a plan of action in advance - which hard-to-reach places and how to get there, how easier it will be to change the water, which side to start from and other details that will help reduce time and reduce fatigue. It’s also worth thinking about how you can make window cleaning more enjoyable - turn on your favorite music or dress in beautiful things.

How to clean a plastic window sill

If a plastic window sill has lost its whiteness or become dirty, it is necessary to take measures to clean it from stains. You can wash yellowed plastic using:

1. Cleaning products. The label must confirm compatibility with the plastic material. It is possible to use alcohol-containing glass cleaners.
2. Washing powder for white. To effectively remove yellow stains, you need to dilute the powder with liquid to a mushy state. Cover the window sill with the mixture and rub with the rough side of the sponge. Old stains should be left for a quarter of an hour. Wipe dry.
3. Soap. Make a very thick soap solution, until it becomes mushy. Clean yellowed plastic with the resulting mixture.
4. Tooth powder, chalk. Dilute 2-3 tbsp. l. with a little water. Apply the thick mixture to the windowsill and rub. Wait 15 minutes, remove the residue with a damp cloth.

Optimal weight/size of device

The windshield wiper should be of such weight and size that it can be easily held in one hand without feeling discomfort.

As a rule, the larger the device, the greater the weight. Remember that a heavy device will cause problems in the long run. Modern devices from well-known brands are very easy to use, but there is a nuance here too. Do not forget that the manufacturer indicates the weight of the empty device only. But when washing windows, they fill with water, which makes them much heavier.

Expert opinion Galina Valerievna Borodina

The optimal weight of a glass washing device is approximately 500-700 grams. At the same time, we must remember that when it comes to lifting weights, we must wisely assess our capabilities. Obviously, on average, a young person will be able to lift more weight than an older person.

How to properly wash a mirror

In essence, a mirror is glass, one of the sides of which is coated with metal.

The smallest contaminants are very clearly visible on its surface, so even a slight error can make the glass look untidy.

These items need to be washed several times a week. However, even with thorough cleaning, stains may appear on glass surfaces - particles of various impurities that were in the water. They may be almost invisible in a dark room, but in bright sunlight they will be very visible. It is not difficult to remove them from the surface if you wash them correctly.

To do this, it is important to consider the following points:

• The water for washing must be perfectly clean. Hard water usually leaves stains, so it is advisable to filter it.
• The final effect greatly depends on what rag you use to wash the glass. It is very convenient to clean glass surfaces with pieces of flannel cloth. The ideal napkin option is a microfiber product. You just need to squeeze it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
• The correct choice of window cleaner plays a significant role in obtaining a good result. It is advisable to purchase special substances that do not leave traces.

You can easily find special microfiber cloths on the shelves of hardware stores.

The correct washing technique will also help to wash all mirrors without streaks at home. It requires compliance with the following rules:

• Washing should begin by cleaning the surface from grease stains and dust. It is recommended to do this with a soapy sponge.
• If there are hardened dirt on the mirror, they must be carefully removed with a blade. Clean the remains with a sponge, rinse off the foam thoroughly.
• Apply a special composition to the mirror. Wipe it dry with crumpled newspaper.

In reality, cleaning a mirror until it shines is not that difficult. There will be no divorces if you resort to special means. These can be either modern factory products or folk inventions.

There are many products at home that you can use to clean mirror surfaces.

Glass cleaning tools

Minimum list of equipment needed for washing:

• gloves;
• napkin, rag, sponge;
• basins, buckets.

The speed and quality of the procedure will depend on the availability of additional devices. Common tools that will help you quickly clean windows:

• mop with a long handle;
• scraper (squeegee) for water;
• melamine sponge;
• magnetic brush;
• steam cleaner.

Window mop

The device allows you to adjust the length of the handle and change the angle of inclination. When the required position is reached, it is fixed. The length can reach 2 m.

Directions for use: wash with movements from one side to the other horizontally, gradually moving downwards. For heavy soiling, use a cleaning cloth or chemicals.

Scraper for water

A similar glass cleaning brush is a rubber tie designed to collect liquid. Sizes range from 20 to 60 cm.

How to use:

1. Carry out initial treatment: wash, soak the dirt.
2. Place the device on the top of the glass and slowly lower it to the bottom. Thanks to the rubber component, the scraper fits tightly to the window, moisture and dirt are driven away and removed with a rag.
3. Reapply the squeegee to the upper section of the glass, moving it to the side. Repeat the procedure.
4. Continue until completely clean. After each wipe, wipe the wiper blade.

Melamine sponge

It is a plastic made by foaming melamine resin. Excellent for removing dirt, grease and other contaminants. During use, the sponge wears off and decreases in size. No additional cleaning agents are required: the fibers absorb and remove dirt.

Instructions for use: moisten the sponge in water, squeeze out a little, wipe the glass. When soiled, rinse with clean water.

Magnetic sponge

The sponge consists of two brushes with magnets. One is intended for the inside of the window, the other for the outside. To prevent the external brush from falling, a safety cord is provided. With it you can quickly and conveniently wash glass on both sides, for example, on a balcony.

Using sponge:

1. Wet the glass with cleaning solution.
2. Moisten the cleaning surfaces of the brushes.
3. Attach the safety cord.
4. Apply one brush from the inside, the second (with safety net) from the outside. Due to the magnet, the brushes will be attracted to each other.
5. Wash starting from the area around the frame. Then move to the central area, moving from top to bottom.

Steam cleaner

This multifunctional unit will help you quickly clean your windows. This device contains a heating element that increases the temperature of the water and turns it into steam. When you press the “starter gun”, a jet of steam comes out, which cleans grease, dirt, stubborn stains, disinfects, and leaves no streaks. No detergent other than water is required. The operating algorithm is as follows:

1. Clean the surface from dust with a dry cloth.
2. Pour water into the steam cleaner.
3. Put on the selected attachment and turn on the device.
4. Using steam, treat the surface and remove excess moisture with a scraper.

The steam generator should not be too large and heavy, otherwise your hands will quickly get tired when cleaning. The most famous manufacturer of steam cleaners is Karcher.

Recommendations

Advice from cleaning experts will help simplify the solution to the issue of cleaning and washing windows:

1. Any cleaning should be done with rubber gloves.
2. Rags can be used both for applying detergent composition and for adding shine.

3. 
   Wiping away moisture with crumpled up newspaper is a good option when you need to restore shine after using a rag or sponge.

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4. The water container should be comfortable - stable and not too small.
5. Not only a store-bought product is suitable as a detergent, but also one made independently according to home recipes.
6. Areas that are inconvenient to clean (for example, at the junction of the frame and glass) can be washed with an old toothbrush.
7. Plastic frames must not be treated with caustic acids.
8. Seals and metal fittings should be wiped first with a damp cloth and then with a dry one.
9. Do not leave the rag dirty after cleaning.

You will find a lot of important and useful information about fast and effective window cleaning in this section.

Grandma's recipes

Our grandmothers did not have any “Mister Muscles” or other miracle chemistry at their disposal, but they always washed windows perfectly and were known as exemplary housewives. Their recipes have survived to this day and will certainly appeal to those who are obsessed with saving money at home or eco-trends.

1. When preparing for the final touch when washing windows, add a few drops of ammonia or vinegar essence to the water. This little trick allows you to give the glass a dazzling shine.
2. By the way, ammonia is often included in industrial cleaners. In the same way, by the way, you can tidy up the mirror in the bathroom, which over time loses its natural shine.
3. Dilute 200 g of tooth powder or crushed chalk in a bucket of water. The water should be cold. You don't need any additional detergents. Wash the windows with this water, then rinse with clean water, wipe dry and polish with newspaper.
4. You can add bleach to the water at the rate of 50 g of lime per 1 liter of water. But this solution is only suitable for washing wooden windows.

It is not advisable to use it in the care of plastic windows, since yellowish stains may remain on the plastic frames, and it is difficult to remove them.

Preliminary preparation

High-quality window cleaning includes more than just glass washing. Starting spring cleaning:

• Remove and wash tulle and curtains.
• Remove all flowers and decorative items from the windowsills. They need to be washed well.
• Wipe curtains and fastenings.
• Remove and clean the blinds.
• Remove the mosquito nets, wash them in the shower, and dry them well.

You can also wipe the batteries and move everything unnecessary away from the windows, organizing a convenient approach. In addition, it is important to study the cleaning features of various surfaces, choose a safe detergent and prepare the necessary tools to make cleaning easier.

Rating of TOP 8 cleaning napkins

The rating includes 8 cleaning napkins that have become popular among Russian housewives. They are all made from different materials and have different characteristics. I suggest you first familiarize yourself with the list of participants:

Red Cat M-01 Eso

The specimen is made of microfiber, that is, a synthetic material containing polyester and polyamide. It has a special weave with small fibers that penetrate into the holes and improve the quality of cleaning. After use, no lint remains on the surface. Has a soft polishing effect. Has good moisture absorption properties. These wipes are designed for dry and wet cleaning.

Red Cat M-01 Eso
Material	microfiber
Purpose	universal
Package	1 PC.
Peculiarities	density 180 g/m2

• convenient size;
• more suitable for dry cleaning than wet cleaning;
• affordable price.

• thin and absorb little water.

For the price, the napkins are normal. They are thin and absorb little moisture, but are great for dry cleaning. Villi do not remain on the surface. Over time, the rag does not fade or fall apart. Keeps its shape for a long time. Size 25x25 is what you need. I use it daily mainly to remove dust from furniture.

Microfiber cloths come in two types: with or without short pile, and also with long pile. The former are suitable for polishing or washing glass, and the latter for dry cleaning. High-density rags absorb moisture better, so they are used for wet cleaning of floors.

Udalix wet wipes for removing stains

Wet wipes are designed to remove stains from fabrics, shoes, furniture and carpets. According to the Russian manufacturer, they can help in the fight against stains left by yogurt, cosmetics, ink, fat, iodine, marker, berries, coffee and others. Napkins can be used not only in the house, but also in the car. There are 15 pieces in a package. Directions for use: rub the stain and then leave it for 1-3 minutes to allow it to react with the detergent. If there are any stains left, it is enough to rinse the item in running water or wipe it with a damp, clean cloth.

Udalix wet wipes for removing stains
Material	not specified
Purpose	stain removal
Package	15 pcs.
Peculiarities	wet

• copes well with fresh stains;
• convenient packaging;
• clean shoes, especially sneakers;
• affordable price.

• can’t cope with yesterday’s stains;
• Does not remove traces of cosmetics.

These wipes do not remove all stains. For example, cosmetics and yesterday's products are beyond their power. Otherwise it's a good thing. Especially useful on the road, to work or to a meeting. Quickly removes stains perfectly. I wipe my shoes and bag with them. I would give it a rating of 4, since they do not cope with all the stated options.

House Lux universal 25*30 cm

Dry wipes are available in rolls. Material viscose and polyester. They are suitable for dry and wet cleaning. They have a high degree of absorption and can be used to collect moisture from surfaces. Can be used for glass and mirrors, and also as a polish. Various detergents and cleaning products can be used together with them. Excellent collection of dust, water, grease. They hold dirt and therefore do not streak. There are 125 sheets per roll, which can be easily torn off using perforations.

House Lux universal 25*30cm
Material	viscose, polyester
Purpose	universal
Package	125
Peculiarities	on a roll

• convenient for use at home;
• perfectly absorb various liquids;
• do not leave lint on surfaces.

• Small size, so you have to tear off two pieces at once.

Excellent napkins and comfortable. I wash almost everything with them: I use them in the kitchen for dishes and wiping the table, I do wet cleaning (removing dust on furniture), I wash mirrors and glass. Does not leave streaks or lint. If you spill something, you tear off the sheet and quickly collect the moisture. Very convenient to use.

If you choose the right rag, it will allow you to put in less effort when cleaning and will do it efficiently. You can read about this in more detail at the end of this review.

Vileda spongiosa

Natural rags for cleaning the house, made of cellulose and cotton. They have good density, do not deform over time and have an increased degree of liquid absorption. For long-term use, it is recommended to wash them in warm water, but not in a washing machine. Suitable for wet cleaning. Long cotton fibers make the material resistant to deformation and therefore more durable. They can absorb up to 15 times more water (up to 100 ml) than the product’s own weight. When dry, they do not break.

Vileda spongiosa
Material	cellulose, cotton
Purpose	universal
Package	6
Peculiarities	for wet cleaning

• have good absorption;
• dry quickly and do not emit unpleasant odors;
• convenient size;
• leave no streaks.

• After several washes they lose their appearance.

I've been using these sponges for a little over a year now. Excellent for collecting water, spilled tea or juice. They are very dense and durable. Before this I used Freken BOK and in comparison I can say that Weleda is much better. I use it mainly in the kitchen. But I also bought it for washing windows and mirrors. They do an excellent job and do not leave streaks or lint. Can be used with all non-aggressive household chemicals.

Set of napkins in a roll Scotch-Brite GPW-ROL

The mesh structure of the sheets allows you to absorb moisture well and remove dust and dirt from smooth surfaces. They come off quickly and easily thanks to the perforation. Made from viscose. This material is excellent for wet and dry cleaning. It is not expensive, does not produce electrostatics and does not leave lint. But these types of rags need to be changed frequently and cannot be machine washed. An unpleasant odor quickly forms.

Set of napkins in a roll Scotch-Brite GPW-ROL
Material	viscose
Purpose	universal
Package	70
Peculiarities	on a roll

• convenient packaging and perforation;
• suitable for daily cleaning;
• do not leave lint on the surface.

• do not wipe dry.

I've been using these wipes for several years. I buy different brands and they are all pretty similar. The differences are minor. It is convenient to carry out wet cleaning and does not need to be washed. Economical. Moisture is not completely absorbed. If you wipe the table, small droplets remain. But it’s easy to wash mirrors and glass without streaks.

Kleenex Viva rags

The material of this product is made of cellulose with the addition of polypropylene. It is only suitable for wet cleaning. Easily collects dust and dirt from smooth surfaces thanks to honeycomb-shaped perforations on the entire surface of the product. It can be squeezed out and rinsed repeatedly without losing its properties. Compatible with all detergents and cleaning products used in everyday life. The sheets are suitable for cleaning in the kitchen and throughout the house, and some women use them to remove the sticky layer when doing manicures. They have good moisture absorption properties.

Kleenex Viva rags
Material	cellulose
Purpose	universal
Package	70
Peculiarities	on a roll

• soft and papery to the touch;
• do not leave lint;
• absorb moisture well;
• don't spread.

• difficult to find on store shelves.

A few years ago I tried these rags and immediately liked them. Therefore, I try to buy only them, although they are difficult to find in stores. They feel like very soft paper, but when in contact with water and detergents they do not unravel. Can be rinsed repeatedly. Excellent absorption of various liquids. I use it not only in the kitchen, but also for wet cleaning of the apartment.

Vileda Actifiber

This product is made of microfiber and polyvinyl acetate. According to the manufacturer, the wipes can absorb up to 100 ml of liquid and can even remove grease without the use of detergent. It is better to use only for wet cleaning. Excellent for cleaning mirror surfaces, glass, plumbing fixtures and taps. And also suitable for monitors and TV screens. Machine washable, but without using conditioner.

Vileda Actifiber
Material	microfiber
Purpose	universal
Package	1
Peculiarities	no detergent needed for wet cleaning

• excellent polish;
• do not leave lint on the surface;
• do not require much effort;
• no detergents needed;
• convenient packaging.

• not identified.

Before that, I used microfiber cloths from the White Cat company. But these are much better. No detergents needed. They clean mirrors and glass perfectly without leaving lint or streaks. You need to wash it more often so it doesn't stink. Lasts a very long time.

Such napkins cannot be dried on radiators, as they lose their properties.

Pingo, 54 cm x 44 cm

The napkin is made of synthetic suede and has a very high moisture absorption of up to 720%. It will wipe dry any wet chrome, paint, mirror and glass surfaces. When cleaning windows, you don’t have to use detergents. The product collects dirt well, but it can only be used when wet. When the rag dries, it hardens and is afraid of bends and fractures. Drying can only be done naturally. When working, it does not leave streaks, streaks or lint. If the product is heavily soiled, it must be thoroughly rinsed in warm water without detergents. The same procedure must be carried out upon first use.

Pingo, 54 cm x 44 cm
Material	polyvinyl
Purpose	for wet surfaces
Package	1
Peculiarities	use only when wet

• very high moisture absorption rate;
• wipes surfaces dry;
• does not leave streaks, lint or dirt;
• does not require detergents.

• when dry it can break, so it requires careful storage.

This rag is sold in car dealerships, but it is great for wet cleaning around the house. Has very high absorption. It is easy for her to clean windows and mirrors and does not require any products. You squeeze it dry and it wipes away without leaving any streaks or drops. The size is just right and comfortable. Washing the rag itself is also not difficult. Simply rinse in water.

Bonus: 4 life hacks that will make cleaning windows easier

Apply S-technique

Apply a soapy solution to the glass, take a rubber squeegee and remove the soap using an S-shaped motion from the edges to the center, moving from top to bottom. This sequence will help you wash your windows without streaks and achieve a brilliant result.

Use water and vinegar on glasses

American cleaning expert Martha Stewart recommends first wiping windows with a solution of water and vinegar in a 1:1 ratio, then removing excess and only then using store-bought glass cleaners.

If you do everything in this order, the glass will be cleaner and sparkling.

There is another solution option:

• ½ part water;
• ¼ part table vinegar;
• ¼ part dishwashing liquid.

Experiment to see which formulation works best for you to achieve your desired results.

Clean the inside of the frame with baking soda and vinegar.

The grooves where the window sash itself is inserted usually collect a lot of dirt. If the frame hasn't been washed in a while, it may be difficult to scrub these areas properly.

Try to cheat: generously sprinkle the contaminated areas with baking soda, pour in table vinegar, wait until it finishes foaming, and remove everything with a rag. Some of the dirt will go away along with the foam, and it will be easier to clean the frame.

What to wipe with microfiber?

So, microfiber

It is needed not for brushing away dust or scrubbing off bugs, but for absorbing moisture. Surprisingly, you can’t rub it - you need to blot it. Having placed the entire area of ​​the rag on the wet body after washing, we move it with smooth movements, blotting and brushing off the water at the same time.

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