How to Remove Fingerprints on Anything – Cleaning Pros Reveal Cheap + Easy Fixes

Maintaining a pristine home becomes an art form when guests are on the way, but those pesky fingerprints all over everything can be a real buzzkill to your cleaning efforts. But fear not, as house cleaning experts share here their invaluable tips on banishing smudges from various household surfaces.

Windows, Mirrors, and Glass Surfaces

To tackle fingerprints on glass surfaces, TikTok content creator Sharon Garcia recommends Fabulosa, a powerful degreaser that effectively removes prints without streaking.

Alternatively, the old-school method of using newspaper and a mixture of lemon juice and water can also leave your glass sparkling. Toothpaste is another surprising yet effective option for mirrors. Let it sit on fingerprints for a few minutes and wipe it with a microfiber cloth for a clear view.

Stainless Steel Appliances and Electronic Screens

Microfiber cloths are the unsung heroes when dealing with stainless steel fingerprints, says cleaning expert Brandon Pleshek. For tougher situations, Bar Keepers Friend, known for its prowess on cookware, can be applied to a sponge for a grease-breaking cleanse. Another surprising remedy to clean stainless steel appliances is a touch of olive oil applied with a soft cloth, but be cautious as too much can attract grease over time.

When it comes to your phone screen, disinfecting while removing fingerprints is essential, advises house cleaner Christie Marchese. A mixture of vinegar, distilled water, and isopropanol on a paper towel does the trick without harming the device. For an unusual on-the-go hack, a small piece of white potato or the middle of a white bread slice can absorb oil from fingerprints.

Walls and Upholstry

Greasy fingerprints on walls are common, but a simple concoction of baking soda, warm water, and dish soap can act as an all-purpose cleaner for most wall paints. For flat paint, white chalk or a white pencil eraser can absorb grease without damaging the surface.

Dealing with fingerprints on upholstery depends on the material. It’s better to follow the manufacturer’s cleaning tag guidelines and to use an appropriate cleaner. You can apply a DIY solution of warm water and unscented laundry detergent to washable surfaces.

Wood Furniture

Dark wooden furniture can trap fingerprints even after polishing. Corn starch is a surprising remedy here. Simply sprinkle it over the marks, let it absorb the oil, and then wipe away with a microfiber cloth. For a homemade polish, mix mineral oil with a few drops of essential oil for a scented finish. Then apply the corn starch method for a flawless result.

No matter the surface, there’s a trick out there to get rid of fingerprint smudges in order to leave your beloved items cleaner than ever before. You just need to know what to use based on what you’re cleaning!