How to Clean Windows Like a Pro

Cleaning windows can be a tedious and time-consuming task. With the right tools and techniques, you can clean your windows like a pro and make them sparkling clean. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to clean windows of all types and sizes.

Gather the Right Cleaning Supplies

To clean windows properly, you need to have the right supplies. Here are the recommended cleaning tools and products:

A window cleaning solution – Make your own by mixing a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle filled with water, or buy a commercial window cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia.
Microfiber cloths – They are lint-free and will not leave behind strands or streaks. Dedicate some for washing and some for drying.
Squeegee – Choose a professional grade squeegee with a brass or stainless steel channel. A good squeegee makes it easy to get a streak-free shine.
Sponge or soft scrub brush – For scrubbing on extra dirty glass panes.
Old newspaper or paper towels – To wipe excess cleaning solution.
Extension poles – For hard to reach windows. Get telescopic poles that can extend up to 18 feet.
Small brush or paint edger – To clean window tracks and sills.
Drop cloths – To protect floors and furnishings from dripping water.
Bucket – For rinsing dirty rags and microfiber cloths.

Wash Windows on a Cloudy Day

Aim to clean windows on an overcast day when the sun’s rays are not shining directly on the glass. Direct sunlight causes cleaning solution and water to dry too quickly, leading to streaks and water spots. Early mornings or late afternoons on cloudy days are ideal times.

If forced to wash windows in direct sunlight, do one pane at a time and dry it immediately before moving to the next pane. Working in the shade of trees also helps when sunny.

Prepare the Window Surface

Follow these pre-cleaning steps to ensure no dirt or debris interferes with the cleaning process:

Vacuum window tracks to get rid of accumulated dust and dirt. Use a small brush to dislodge debris in the tracks.
Sweep outdoor porches, patios or decks below the windows you intend to clean. This stops dirt and leaves from blowing onto freshly cleaned windows.
Remove any screens and set aside carefully if you need to wash the outdoor side of windows.
Identify if there are any insects, spiderwebs or bird droppings on the glass and remove them.
Scrape off any hardened debris like paint or sap drips using a single-edged razor blade.
Spray the window surface with water to moisten the glass. This prevents cleaning solution from drying out too quickly.

Wash Windows in a Methodical Manner

To ensure you don’t miss any spots, make cleaning windows a systematic process. Follow these steps:

Wash the Outside Portion First

Start washing from the top left pane, or the uppermost pane you can comfortably reach. Continue pane by pane in a zigzag pattern down the window.
Apply window cleaning solution liberally on the glass using a spray bottle.
Use a sponge or soft scrub brush to dislodge dirt and grime. Apply light pressure while scrubbing in circular motions.
Squeegee horizontally first, then vertically. Wipe squeegee blade clean between each pass.
Go over the edges carefully using a small brush. Squeegee again if needed.
Soak up any cleaning solution dripping down with old newspaper or paper towel.
Repeat process on any remaining panes until you reach the bottom.

Clean the Inside in Sections

Divide each window into imaginary sections – top, middle and bottom or left, center and right.
Start washing from the topmost section, wiping your microfiber cloth from side to side.
Make overlapping passes within each section to ensure full coverage.
Rinse cloth as needed in clean water to prevent re-depositing of dirt.
Dry each section immediately with a clean dry microfiber using top to bottom passes.
Do a final rub down with a dry cloth. Check for streaks in natural daylight.
Repeat cleaning and drying the middle and bottom sections.
For exceptionally dirty indoor windows, clean each section twice – once to dislodge dirt and again to remove residues.

Clean Window Frames and Tracks

Wipe down the window frame using a damp microfiber. Use a small brush dipped in solution to clean grooves and corners.
Run a paper towel soaked in window cleaning solution along the window tracks to dissolve dirt and debris.
Use a dry paper towel to wipe tracks completely dry. This prevents future sticking issues.
Check the upper and lower window sills. Damp wipe as needed to remove dust and dirt.

Tackle Specialty Windows

Certain specialty windows require some extra attention and modified cleaning methods:

French Doors

Tilt upper door panels carefully to access outer surfaces for washing. Don’t detach door from the frame.
Use a small step ladder to reach the top of the doors safely. Never climb on chairs or tables.
Clean the glass starting at the handle side. Dry immediately squeegeeing away from the handles.
Check weatherstripping seals while cleaning. Replace if worn out.

Skylights

Use a telescopic extension pole and microfiber mop to wash exterior glass safely from inside the house.
Rinse skylight well to avoid streaks from mineral deposits in water. Consider having a professional clean skylights annually.

Shower Doors

Spray down the entire glass surface with cleaning solution. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
Scrub using a sponge or scrubbing pad, then squeegee starting from the top.
Rinse tracks thoroughly. Use an old toothbrush to clean grout and tile edges near tracks.

Windows With Furnishings

Dust blinds, shades or drapes before cleaning the glass.
Carefully tilt Venetian blinds to clean them. Never submerge blinds in water.
Use vacuum crevice tool to remove debris between shutters or blinds and the window.
Move plants, books or other items away from windows before washing.

Remove Specific Types of Grime and Stains

Windows can accumulate many types of dirt, smudges and stains over time. Here are tips to clean some common grime types:

Removing Greasy and Oily Residues

Make a concentrated cleaning solution by adding 1/4 cup ammonia to 1/2 gallon water.
Generously spray problem areas and let solution sit for 5 minutes.
Wipe with a microfiber and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed.

Cleaning Paint Splatters

Carefully scrape off fresh paint using a plastic putty knife. Avoid razors.
For dried latex paint, rub gently with a damp pumice stone soap. Rinse and dry.
Use acetone nail polish remover on oil-based paint. Test on small area first.

Eliminating Hard Water Stains

Make a paste with distilled white vinegar and baking soda. Spread on stains and leave for 5 minutes.
Wipe paste off and wash as normal. Use undiluted vinegar for tough stains.

Removing Tree Sap, Tar and Adhesives

Rub sticky spots gently with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or lighter fluid.
For stubborn sap, apply almond or olive oil and let it soak for 10 minutes. The sap will dissolve.

Erasing Crayon Marks and Graffiti

Try rubbing the marks gently with a pencil eraser. This works on recent marks.
Use a small amount of toothpaste on older marks. Rub with fingers or scrub brush.
Window cleaning sprays designed for graffiti removal also work on crayon stains.

Eliminating Streaks and Haze

Avoid colored microfiber cloths which can leave lint and streak colored residue.
Rinse wash microfiber cloths thoroughly between windows to prevent dirt buildup.
Allow glass to dry fully before walking away. Lingering moisture causes haziness.

Make Your Clean Windows Really Shine

A few extra touches after washing windows will give you that professional finished look:

After drying exterior windows, run a towel lightly coated with car wax up and down each pane. This adds extra sparkle and acts as a water repellent.
On indoor glass, mist a cotton cloth with vinegar and water solution. Give windows a final buff for added clarity and shine.
Check for missed spots in daylight. Touch up if needed.
Make sure window screens are totally dry before replacing them.
Consider adding screen covers over screens facing direct sunlight. They reflect heat and block UV rays that can damage furnishings.
Open blinds, curtains or drapes and allow fresh air and sunlight in to complete the clean look.

With the right tools and techniques, you can clean windows quickly while achieving professional quality results. Follow these proven methods to make your windows crystal clear and stunning!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Windows Like a Pro

Cleaning windows is often perceived as a mundane chore. But clean windows make a huge difference in the look of a home, improving curb appeal and allowing more natural light inside. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about getting your windows professionally clean:

How often should I clean the interior and exterior windows?

Clean interior windows at least 2-3 times a year—more often if you have kids or pets. Do the exterior whenever it looks visibly dirty.

What is the best way to clean outdoor windows that are too high?

Use an extension pole to attach a microfiber mop or towel. Start from the top and work down methodically. Or hire a professional window cleaner to avoid risk.

What should I use to clean windows? Are commercial cleaners worth it?

A few drops of dish soap in water works fine for most windows. Buy commercial cleaners for really dirty windows. They contain surfactants that cut through grime.

Any shortcuts for cleaning lots of windows?

Clean windows in batches spread over multiple days. Hire a professional cleaning service if you have over 20 windows. Their powerful vacuum systems make the job faster.

How do I clean windows without leaving streaks?

Always use lint-free microfiber cloths. Apply cleaning solution liberally so it doesn’t dry out. Wipe excess water horizontally, then vertically. Buff dry immediately.

What is the quickest way to dry windows?

The best window cleaning pros rely on high-quality squeegees to scrape water off efficiently after washing windows. It’s faster than towels.

How do I clean hard to reach skylights?

Use a telescopic pole and microfiber mop to wash exterior glass of skylights. Or have a professional do it as they use high ladders and have specialized tools.

What should I use to clean window or shower door tracks?

Dip an old toothbrush in cleaning solution to scrub tracks. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. Lubricate rubber seals if needed.

Can I clean windows in direct sunlight?

It’s best to clean windows in shade or indirect light. If no choice, do one window pane at a time and dry immediately before moving to the next pane.

What is the fastest way to defog indoor windows?

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray generously on glass and wipe with newspaper. Repeat if needed.

Conclusion

Cleaning windows is mostly about having the right tools, supplies and techniques. With some elbow grease and persistence, you can get your windows spotless like a professional. Always start by preparing the surface. Work in a systematic manner washing from top to bottom. Pay attention to window frames and tracks too. With these comprehensive tips, you can bid goodbye to dirty streaky windows and enjoy crystal clear views!

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