Newspaper Myths Debunked: The Somerset Truth About Window Cleaning - Yeovil Window Cleaning Services in Yeovil, Somerset

Newspaper Myths Debunked: The Somerset Truth About Window Cleaning

15 min read
YeovilSomersetWindow CleaningMyth DebunkingHealth and SafetySeasonal CleaningLocal ExpertiseCountry Show Prep

Newspaper Myths Debunked: The Somerset Truth About Window Cleaning

Have you ever grabbed a sheet of newspaper to wipe the windows, hoping to get a miracle shine? I did, back in my first proper year cleaning windows in Yeovil, on a damp Saturday by the Market Place. It felt like a traditional trick, the kind of quick fix you hear about in village chats. And I won’t pretend I didn’t fall for it a bit. But in Somerset, with its ever-changing weather and a mix of old sash windows and modern UPVC, the newspaper method just doesn’t stack up. So today I’m sharing the truth from a local guy who’s spent years keeping Yeovil, Sherborne and the surrounding Somerset towns sparkling, rain or shine.

What the newspaper myth is and where it came from (and why it sticks in Yeovil)

Back in the day, people used newspaper with a bit of soapy water to dry the glass, thinking the ink and the rough surface would scour off marks and leave a glossy finish. It’s a tale that travels fast—especially in a town like Yeovil where the weather can be moody and the market is busy on a Saturday. The idea makes sense at first glance: newspaper is cheap, you probably already have some around the house, and it feels traditional. But myths don’t always translate well to real windows, particularly here in Somerset.

What few realise is that modern window finishes, especially on homes around Yeovil’s centre and out in the suburbs near Huish Park, can be sensitive. Ink transfer from newspaper can leave smudges or even tiny pigment traces that are stubborn to remove if the glass has more texture or if the sun has baked the film on. And let’s be honest, many Yeovil homes have weathered timber sills and leaded lights where abrasion from rough paper can cause micro-scratches over time. If you live in surrounding towns like Sherborne or Crewkerne, the same logic applies—newspaper isn’t a magic wand, it’s a stopgap at best.

For a deeper dive into this particular myth, you might have seen our earlier piece on the newspaper myth: Debunking Newspaper Myth: Yeovil Window Truth in Somerset.

Why paper isn’t the best for modern windows (even in Somerset’s weather)

There are a few practical reasons why newspaper falls short, especially here in Yeovil and the wider South West:

  • Ink residue and smearing: The ink in newspapers can transfer to glass, particularly on damp days or when the glass is slightly textured. That means more wiping, not less, on a typical Yeovil afternoon.
  • Fibres and lint: Newsprint leaves tiny fibres that can cling to edges and sills, creating little specks that look like dirt even after you’ve wiped. This is noticeable on reflective surfaces or on leaded glass.
  • Not kind to special surfaces: If your home features aged or delicate glasswork—think leaded lights or etched panes—the rough paper can contribute to micro-scratches over time. And that’s not a risk worth taking in a historic part of Yeovil or nearby villages.
  • Climate matters: Somerset isn’t flat dry all year. After rain, the glass dries with mineral spots if you’re using the wrong cloth, which is harder to fix with a quick newspaper wipe.

So what should you use instead when you want a reliable, streak-free finish in Yeovil? The short answer is modern tools and proper technique. You’ll often hear the pros talk about microfibre cloths, squeegees, and professional-grade cleaning solutions that leave glass clean and protected. If you want the full lowdown, check our guide to professional methods here: the blog page.

Why paper looks quaint but isn’t the best option here in Somerset

In Yeovil and the surrounding countryside, many homes feature a mix of building styles—from period sash windows to modern UPVC frames. Newspapers don’t account for this variety. They don’t deliver the controlled, even finish you get with a proper window cleaning method. And if you’ve ever cleaned a big bay window on a windy April day, you’ll know that airflow can push dust and grit back onto the glass while you’re wiping—leading to streaks that look worse than before.

And there’s another practical angle: cost and convenience. Newspapers cost money, take time to scrunch and wipe, and in a busy Yeovil schedule you’re likely chasing windows on the go. In truth, professional tools and the right technique save time, reduce repeat visits, and give you a better finish that lasts longer.

If you’re curious about a modern alternative, you’ll find it in our post about do pros use special water and other myths: Do Pros Use Special Water? Yeovil Window Cleaning Myths Debunked.

What actually works better for Yeovil’s weather and homes

Here’s what I’ve learned working in Yeovil, across South West England, and down into nearby towns such as Somerton, Martock, and Ilminster:

  • Use microfibre cloths and a good quality window cleaning solution. Microfibre has excellent pick-up properties and leaves less residue than newspaper.
  • Squeegees with a proper blade angle deliver a consistent, streak-free finish. Work from left to right (or top to bottom) and keep the blade clean.
  • Wipe and buff edges last. That helps catch any lingering drips and prevents droplets from drying mid-window.
  • Consider the water quality. In many Yeovil properties, filtered or pure water systems reduce mineral deposits. If you’re cleaning outside, a pure water system can make a noticeable difference, especially on longer pane runs here in Somerset.
  • Work out of direct sun. The Somerset sun can bake soap and cause streaks; aim for late afternoon shade or overcast days when possible.

If you’d like a deeper exploration of modern methods, take a look at our post on traditional cleaning vs pure water systems: Traditional Cleaning vs Pure Water: The Best Choice for Yeovil Homes.

Seasonal considerations in Yeovil and Somerset

Somerset’s weather isn’t predictable, which means the best window cleaning plan is seasonal. Here are practical tips tailored to Yeovil, and to nearby areas like Sherborne, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Martock, and Somerton:

  • Autumn and leaf fall: Leaves and pollen can wash off onto glass during windy days. Clean after a dry spell to avoid mud and leaf stains clogging seals.
  • Winter: Frost and condensation can lead to foggy interiors and mineral deposits on exteriors. Cleanings are often better when temperatures are above freezing and the sun isn’t burning off cleaning solutions too quickly.
  • Spring: Pollen and dust increase; a good spring clean with a proper rinse helps prep for summer glare and keeps sash windows in good condition.
  • Summer: Humidity can cause streaking if you over-wet surfaces in direct sun. Clean during cooler parts of the day and use fewer passes for the best finish.

Local example: in Yeovil, I’ve found that preparing windows for high-traffic periods, like the country show prep season, yields the best returns in terms of appearance and longevity. If you’re preparing for a local event, our article on Country Show Window Cleaning tips might be handy: Yeovil Country Show Window Cleaning Prep: Practical Tips.

For a general look at best times for window cleaning across Somerset, you can also consult our guide here: Best Time for Window Cleaning in Somerset.

UK health and safety in window cleaning (what pros actually follow)

Local homeowners often ask about safety. In Yeovil, as in the rest of the UK, we follow strict health and safety practices to protect you and our team:

  • Risk assessments and method statements before every job, in line with the Health and Safety at Work Act. This includes ladder placement, traffic control if cleaning near busy streets, and safeguarding against fall hazards.
  • Work at height regulations require proper training and equipment. When we need access to upper panes, we use compliant ladders or, on larger premises, access gear such as rope systems or cherry pickers as appropriate. See our related discussion on access methods here: Rope Access vs Cherry Picker: Yeovil Properties.
  • PUWER and LOLER considerations govern the use and maintenance of cleaning equipment. We ensure blades, poles, and water-fed systems are well maintained and safe to use on sash and UPVC frames alike.
  • Child safety and neighbourhood access: we stay mindful of families and pets, especially in the narrow lanes around Yeovil town centre and on routes that lead to nearby towns like Somerton and Martock.
  • Insurance and professional liability are standard. It’s worth asking any window cleaner about public liability insurance and site-specific risk checks before a big exterior clean, especially on listed buildings.

If you want to read more about staying safe while cleaning windows, have a look at Stay Safe resources from our blog: Stay Safe: Window Cleaning Health and Safety in Yeovil, Somerset.

Practical, local-tested methods you can use today in Yeovil

Here is a straightforward, neighbourly approach that works well on Yeovil homes and across the South West:

  • Gather your kit: a bucket, two clean microfibre cloths per window, a good quality squeegee, a spray bottle filled with a mild cleaning solution, and a soft brush for the frame. If you’re cleaning exterior windows, consider a water-fed pole or a pure water system if you have access to it.
  • Interior cleaning sequence: dust the frame first, then spray lightly, wipe with a damp microfibre, dry with a clean cloth, and buff with a dry, lint-free towel.
  • Exterior sequence: rinse the glass thoroughly with water, apply cleaning solution, squeegee from top to bottom, wipe the blade edge dry, and finish with a soft buff around edges.
  • Avoid sunlight hot spots: especially in summer, cleaning in the strongest sun can dry soap too quickly, leaving residues. Plan late afternoon or overcast days when possible and in cooler months try for morning windows when the air is a little calmer.
  • Handle sensitive surfaces with care: leaded glass, painted frames, or delicate sashes require gentler cleaning and sometimes specialised products to avoid damage.

For a broader look at professional gear and how to choose the right setup, you might find our piece on Equipment Essentials for Yeovil Businesses useful: Equipment Essentials for Yeovil Businesses: Window Cleaning Gear.

If you want to compare DIY versus professional service in Yeovil, this guide can help you decide what makes sense for your home: DIY Cleaning vs Professional Service: Best for Yeovil Homes.

When to call a pro and what a pro brings to the table in Somerset

Newspaper aside, there are times you should call a professional window cleaner:

  • High or awkward windows: upper-storey panes, dormers, or glass in conservatories—these are risks if you’re not trained or equipped for safe access.
  • Leaded or stained glass: these require careful cleaning to avoid damage and discolouration.
  • Built-up grime or hard water stains: stubborn mineral deposits from Somerset rain can require specialised treatments, not a quick wipe with newsprint.
  • Listed buildings: historic properties in Yeovil and the surrounding countryside can have guidelines for cleaning and preserving the façade. In such cases a professional with knowledge of local permissions is beneficial. See a case study of a listed manor for context: Case Study: Restoring a Listed Manor House in Yeovil.

If you’re weighing pros and DIY, our comparison piece is a good read: Professional vs DIY Window Cleaning in Yeovil.

Common mistakes to avoid (and what to do instead in Yeovil)

  • Don’t scrub aggressively with a rough cloth or old rags. It can scratch glass or degrade seals on sash windows.
  • Don’t over-soap. Excess soap plus wind or sun can leave streaks and require extra polishing.
  • Don’t rely solely on newspaper as a cleaning tool. It may look old-fashioned and can leave ink smears.
  • Do dry thoroughly. The last pass with a dry cloth reduces water spots, especially on hard-water prone days in Somerset.
  • Do plan for regular cleans. A regular schedule keeps grime from building up and reduces the risk of long-term damage to seals and frames.

If you want a practical, local calendar to keep you on track, see our guidance on regular cleaning intervals here: The Ultimate Yeovil Quarterly Window Cleaning Schedule.

Local flavour: Yeovil and nearby areas

Living in Yeovil means you’re never far from friendly neighbourhood advice and a quick chat about window care. The climate here in South West England means you’ll get rain, sun, and wind all in the same week sometimes, and that can stress different types of windows differently. If you’re in nearby Sherborne, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Martock, or Somerton, the same cleaning principles apply, though the property types and lead times might differ a bit. And if you’re approaching the Country Show season, you’ll likely want to present a clean, bright frontage—our tips and case studies on show prep can be very helpful: Prep Your Yeovil Windows: Country Show Window Cleaning Tips.

For broader Somerset context, we also publish regular posts on the costs and value of regular cleans, so you know what to expect and how to budget: 2025 Update: Regular Window Cleaning Prices in Somerset.

Practical, localised takeaways for Yeovil homes

  • Keep a simple kit accessible. A few microfibre cloths, a spray bottle, a squeegee, and a neutral cleaner will handle most Yeovil windows without fuss.
  • For exterior windows, consider a water-fed pole or a pure water system if the layout of your home allows. It’s particularly effective in this damp climate and reduces mineral spots on long pane runs around the town centre.
  • Don’t forget the frames. Cleaning the frames and sills protects the window units and helps prevent damp from creeping into timber frames around older Yeovil houses.
  • Schedule smart. If you’re in a busy street near Market Street or near the railway line to Yeovil Pen Mill, a well-timed weekday clean can reduce the risk of dust and traffic grime interfering with your finish.
  • When in doubt, lean on the local pros. A local window cleaner with knowledge of Yeovil’s housing stock, climate, and the occasional storm can tailor a plan to your home. You can explore our core services here: window cleaning services in Yeovil.

If you want to see how we balance local knowledge with safety and efficiency, check out our general blog hub: the blog page.

FAQs

Q: Is newspaper still a valid option for Yeovil windows? A: It’s an old trick that may leave ink smudges or lint behind. Modern methods using microfibre cloths and squeegees are generally faster, safer for most surfaces, and provide a more consistent finish here in Somerset.

Q: Can I clean outside windows in winter in Yeovil? A: It’s possible, but caution is needed. Avoid freezing temperatures, work on mild days, and use filtered water where possible. If frost is expected, it’s best to postpone exterior cleans until conditions improve.

Q: Should I use vinegar or other strong cleaners on windows? A: Mild detergents are usually sufficient. Strong acidic cleaners can damage seals and finishes on older or leaded glass. For tricky stains, a professional window cleaner will have safer, targeted products.

Q: Do pros really use pure water for external windows? A: Yes, many pros in Yeovil and across Somerset use pure or demineralised water to prevent mineral spots and improve outdoor cleaning efficiency. This approach is especially helpful for long runs or stubborn mineral deposits.

Q: How often should I clean windows in a Somerset home? A: It depends on location, exposure, and building type. In general, many homeowners opt for a bi-monthly or quarterly schedule to keep grime under control and preserve seal life. See our guide on frequency for more context: How Often Should You Clean Windows in Somerset?.

Ready to get sparkling windows in Yeovil and beyond?

If you’re in Yeovil, Sherborne, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Martock, or Somerton and you want a no-fuss, safety-first approach to window cleaning, give us a call or visit our site. We’ll tailor a plan to your home and climate, and we’ll always prioritise safety and efficiency. For a quick overview of services or to book a local window cleaning appointment, visit our homepage and explore what we offer: window cleaning services in Yeovil.

And if you want to browse more articles and practical tips, our blog is a handy resource, featuring recent topics on seasonal care, leaded windows, and more. If you’re curious about the science behind the myths, our post on special water and myths debunked is a good read: Do Pros Use Special Water? Yeovil Window Cleaning Myths Debunked.

So next time someone swears by newspaper for a shine, you’ll know the Somerset truth. And if you’d like a local opinion tailored to your home, drop me a note or book a chat. I’m in Yeovil most weekdays, and I’m happy to share what really works for your property, your budgets, and your schedule.

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This article was written by Yeovil Window Cleaning Services, your local window cleaning experts serving Yeovil, Somerset and surrounding areas in Somerset.

Last updated: 17 October 2025

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