Window washing is often thought of as a dreaded task, but it does not have to be. There are ways to clean your windows that can make the process quick and easy. It is recommended that you clean your windows twice per year. Regular window cleaning keeps your home looking beautiful and the windows operating properly for the long run. So, what is the best way to clean your windows? Here are some tips to clean your windows and have them looking new for longer.
Window Washing Tools
- 3-gallon bucket
- Clean, soft cloths
- Cleaning solution — You can use a store-bought glass cleaner that is ammonia and water-based or make your solution with 2 to 3 gallons of water and a 10-second squeeze of dish soap.
- T-bar scrubber with a microfiber sleeve.
- 14-inch squeegee — brass, aluminum, or stainless steel work well and are easier to maneuver. If you have larger windows, an 18-inch squeegee may work better.
- Large paintbrush or a hand-held vacuum to clear away the windowsills.
How to Clean Inside Windows
- To avoid any drips or spills, lay a towel or drop cloth down under the window.
- Use your hand-held vacuum or large paint brush to clear away the windowsills of any spiderwebs or dirt. To clean tight corners, you can adapt a tool by wrapping a soft cloth around a butter knife. Finally, wipe the sill with a damp cloth.
- Begin washing by using your scrubber and cleaning solution. Do not use too much water and start from the top of the window glass. Then, rub up-and-down and side-to-side by using light to moderate pressure.
- Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the top and edges of the window to break any beads of water.
- Use your squeegee to dry the glass by starting in the top corner and swiping down in a straight line. Work your way across the top, making sure to wipe your squeegee dry in between strokes. You can angle the squeegee slightly so that it directs water towards the part of the glass that hasn’t been squeegeed yet.
- Finally, use a clean cloth to wipe away any water that’s pooled around the bottom of the window.
How to Clean Outside Windows
- Remove the screen and clean that first. This will leave time for it to dry while you clean the window.
- Using the paintbrush, clear away dirt and spiderwebs from the window frame and sills.
- Wipe the window frame down using a clean damp cloth.
- Wash the glass starting at the top and working down, using your T-bar scrubber and solution. Rub up-and-down and side-to-side while using light to moderate pressure.
- If the window is very dirty, a second scrub can be done.
- Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the top and edges of the windows to break any beads of water.
- Use the squeegee to dry the glass by starting in the top corner and swiping down in a straight line. Work your way across the top, making sure to wipe your squeegee dry in between strokes. Once again, you can angle the squeegee slightly, so it directs water toward the part of the glass that hasn’t been squeegeed yet.
- Using a clean dry cloth, wipe around the glass to remove any leftover soapy residue. With each wipe, use a different, dry part of the cloth.
- Lastly, wipe down the frames.
Window Cleaning Tips
- To prevent streaks, don’t wash windows in direct sunlight. The sun causes the cleaning solution to dry too quickly before it can be wiped away.
- Avoid using things like razor blades, abrasive cleaners, or solvents since they can scratch or damage glass.
- Don’t wait a long time between cleanings. The longer you put it off, the more dirt that builds up and the more work you must put in to get your windows clean.
- While cleaning your windows, inspect for any gaps or damage in your weatherstripping.
- It is not recommended to wash windows with a pressurized tool, as it can cause damage.
- For stubborn spots, try using toothpaste or mineral spirits.
- If you are unable to reach higher windows or feel uncomfortable on a ladder, the best solution is to hire a professional to wash your windows.
- When it comes time for replacement windows, consider tilt windows for easy cleaning.
Best Way to Clean Your Windows FAQs
For optimal window cleaning results, gather tools such as a squeegee, microfiber cloth or sponge, bucket, window cleaning solution, and a soft lint-free cloth or chamois for drying. A rubber-blade squeegee helps remove water and soap without leaving streaks, while microfiber cloths or sponges are gentle on glass surfaces.
A simple homemade window cleaning solution can be made by mixing equal parts of distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution effectively cuts through dirt and grime without the need for harsh chemicals. Alternatively, mix a few drops of mild dish soap in a bucket of warm water for a soap-based solution.
To minimize streaks, start by wetting the window with your cleaning solution. Use a squeegee to remove the solution by making a continuous ‘S’ or ‘Z’ motion from the top to the bottom of the window. Wipe the squeegee blade with a clean, lint-free cloth between strokes to avoid redistributing dirt. Finally, dry the edges of the window with a soft, lint-free cloth or chamois.
Ideally, clean your windows at least twice a year. However, if you live in an area with high pollution or near a construction site, you may need to clean them more frequently. The best time of day to clean windows is during a cloudy or overcast day. Direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, leading to streaks and residue.
For hard-to-reach windows, use a telescopic window cleaning pole with a squeegee or sponge attachment. If you need to use a ladder, ensure it is stable and follow safety guidelines. For very high windows or challenging situations, consider hiring a professional window cleaning service to ensure your safety and achieve the best results.
