Why people rub onions on windows: Experts advise against the smelly cleaning trick

A peculiar cleaning hack is circulating online, suggesting that rubbing cut onions on windows can achieve a streak-free shine. This unusual method proposes using the natural properties of onions to tackle the often-dreaded chore of window washing.

Advocates of the onion trick claim that the vegetable's natural acids, sulfur compounds, and high water content are effective in breaking down everyday grime, such as oily fingerprints and light dirt. The moisture from the onion is said to soften stubborn residues like dried insects or bird droppings, while its mild acidity acts as a natural cleaning agent. The process involves either rubbing a halved onion directly onto the glass or soaking onion pieces in water and using the infused water with a cloth.

However, the advice from cleaning authorities, such as Good Housekeeping, is to steer clear of this method. While acknowledging that onions might offer a chemical-free approach and could handle minor smudges, they argue the drawbacks significantly outweigh the benefits. Commercial glass cleaners are readily available, inexpensive, and far more effective at removing tough dirt and limescale. Furthermore, if the onion residue isn't completely removed, it can leave a sticky film that attracts more dirt, potentially making windows look worse.

The most obvious downside is the smell. Both the windows and the cleaner's hands would carry the pungent aroma of onion until all traces are thoroughly removed. This strong odor, combined with the limited effectiveness on tougher stains, leads experts to conclude that the onion window-cleaning trick is not worth the effort.

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Luk može biti efikasan za uklanjanje otisaka prstiju i svakodnevnih mrlja, a ako se nakon toga prozor dobro prebriše suvom krpom od mikrofibera, staklo može izgledati iznenađujuće čisto.