How to Clean Up Broken Glass

Broken glass can be a hazard if not cleaned up properly. It's important to handle glass shards carefully to avoid injury. Whether it’s a shattered window, a broken glass item on the floor, or glass fragments embedded in a carpet, knowing the right steps to take can ensure a safe and thorough cleanup. This guide provides detailed instructions on cleaning broken glass from various surfaces and situations.

Cleaning Broken Glass From Floors

Step 1: Clear the Area

Safety First: Move any pets, children, or other individuals away from the area where the glass has broken. Close doors or block off entrances to prevent anyone from entering the hazardous area. According to home cleaning specialist Daniel Olin, it’s essential to keep pets and children in another room until the glass is completely cleared.

Check for Injuries: Ensure that no one, including pets, has sustained cuts or scratches from the broken glass.

Step 2: Protect Yourself

Wear Protective Gear: Put on gloves and long pants to protect your hands and legs. Avoid kneeling directly on the floor where the glass is located. If you don't have gloves, use tongs or forceps to pick up the glass instead of using your bare hands.

Step 3: Remove Large Shards

Dispose of Big Pieces: Carefully pick up the large pieces of glass and place them into a sturdy container, such as an empty coffee tin or a thick plastic container. If you don't have such a container, wrap the large glass pieces in thick layers of newspaper before placing them in a plastic bag. Ensure the newspaper is thick enough to prevent the glass from cutting through it.

Step 4: Sweep the Area

Use a Broom and Dustpan: Sweep up smaller glass fragments using a broom and dustpan. Shake the broom into a paper bag to remove any lingering pieces of glass. Alternatively, shake the glass shards into a cardboard box.

Note: Be cautious, as sweeping might not remove all small, sharp fragments of glass from the floor. Continue to keep pets and children out of the area until additional steps are taken.

Step 5: Avoid Using a Vacuum Cleaner

Vacuum Caution: Using a vacuum cleaner might seem like an easy solution, but it can damage the machine and spread glass fragments. If vacuuming is necessary, cover the hose with a stocking or sock to catch the glass pieces.

Step 6: Clean Up Glass from Carpet

Scrub the Carpet: Use a small scrubbing brush to lift glass fragments from carpet fibers. After scrubbing, use duct tape to pick up any remaining glass pieces. Dispose of the duct tape in a double-wrapped plastic or paper bag.

Cleaning Up Glass Without a Broom

Step 1: Use a Potato

Potato Method: Cut a potato in half and press the cut side against the floor where the glass is scattered. The glass will embed itself in the potato’s flesh, which can then be safely discarded. This method is also effective for cleaning broken glass inside dishwashers.

Step 2: Use Bread

Bread Method: Press a slice of bread onto the area with glass shards. The glass will stick to the soft bread, which can then be discarded. This method is particularly useful for hard-to-reach spots.

Step 3: Use Duct Tape

Duct Tape Method: Tear off a 12-inch piece of duct tape and press it gently onto the surface with glass fragments. The glass will stick to the tape, which can then be folded and discarded. Repeat until the area is clear.

Step 4: Use a Damp Paper Towel

Paper Towel Method: Fold a damp paper towel in half and press it onto the surface to pick up small glass pieces. Dispose of the paper towel carefully to avoid injury.

Cleaning Up Broken Windows

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Replace or Patch: If the window is cracked, use a small knife to score an arc just beyond the end of the crack to prevent it from spreading. For small holes, apply clear fingernail polish or shellac. If the window is severely damaged, replacement is the safest option.

Step 2: Secure the Area

Safety Precautions: Ensure no one can access the area with broken glass. Wear heavy shoes and gloves to protect yourself during the cleanup process.

Step 3: Remove the Pane

Extract the Glass: Carefully lift the broken glass pieces from the window frame. If necessary, chisel the putty from the frame to remove the glass.

Step 4: Remove Putty from Frame

Remove Old Putty: Use a wood chisel or putty knife to remove the putty from the window frame. Be thorough to make the replacement process easier.

Step 5: Replace the Window

Install New Glass: Fit a new pane of glass into the frame and secure it with glazier’s points placed every four inches. Ensure the replacement glass is slightly smaller than the frame.

Step 6: Apply Putty

Seal the Edges: Knead the putty until it’s soft, roll it into pencil-length cylinders, and press it around the window frame to seal the new glass. Smooth the putty with a putty knife and remove any excess.

Conclusion

Cleaning up broken glass requires careful attention to safety and thoroughness to ensure no fragments are left behind. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively clean up broken glass from floors, carpets, and windows.

Always prioritize safety by wearing protective gear and keeping others away from the hazardous area. Utilize different methods, such as using a potato, bread, or duct tape, for hard-to-reach or delicate areas. With these techniques, you can ensure a safe and clean environment after any glass mishap.

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