How to Clean Windows

Window cleaning supplies are available in a variety of forms. You can choose from, liquids, foams, sprays and wipes. Most window cleaning solutions are versatile enough to be used on several different surfaces such as glass, tile, countertops and more.

• No-drip cleaners utilize a thicker formula, making them less likely to run down to the bottom of a window before you've had a chance to wipe them clean.
• Prepackaged wipes come with cleaning solution already applied and are ideal for use on smaller windows.
• Diluting a small amount of ammonia, rubbing alcohol or vinegar in water creates a homemade cleaning solution that's effective on soil and grease.
• Mixing warm water with cornstarch or dish soap creates an effective general window cleaner.

The right tools can increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your window washing technique.

The best way to ensure a streak-free finish is to use a squeegee.

• Squeegees feature a rubber blade that removes the cleaner as you drag it across the surface of the window. They come in multiple sizes and, in some cases, may be cut to fit your windows. Squeegees have replaceable rubber blades allow you to reuse them over and over. Replace blades at the first sign of wear to maintain effectiveness. Plastic clips help secure squeegee blades in place for more precise use.

Scrub brushes are the most efficient way to apply window cleaners, particularly on medium and large-size windows.

• A scrub brush cleans away the pollution, dirt, grit and grime that builds up on a window’s surface. Always remember to squeeze excess water from scrubbers before applying to windows. There are scrubber and squeegee combinations available that perform the work of two tools.

Paper towels, cleaning cloths and even newspaper can also be used to clean windows.

• Dust and clean frames, sills and cross pieces prior to washing glass. If you clean them afterward, you may end up soiling or streaking the windows you worked so hard to clean.
• Use a porcupine scrubber to scrape sap, dried paint or other hard substances from the glass. Or you can use a razor blade.
• Keep your cleaning solution in a 5-gallon bucket. Change out water often to keep clean windows clean and minimize streaking.
• Using a squeegee, start at the top of the window and work side-to-side.
• Working horizontally, push the excess water toward the unwashed part of the window.
• Dry the squeegee between strokes with a clean cloth or a chamois.
• Use a rag or towel to wipe up the water that drips down onto the sill as well as the corners of the panes.

Tip: Use an extension pole to make it easier to reach high windows.

For large projects, some glass cleaners come in a bottle that can be attached directly to a garden hose for cleaning windows efficiently.

• Spray windows.
• Let set for a few seconds.
• Rinse window off by adjusting a knob on the bottle to allow just water to flow through.
• This method doesn't require any sort of wiping, scrubbing or drying, making it ideal for high or hard-to-reach windows.

Tip: The best ways to clean windows will vary from home to home, and according to your accessibility needs.

• Avoid cleaning windows when the sun is shining directly on them. The sun dries the cleaning solution very quickly, often before you've had a chance to wipe it off, which creates streaks.
• Consider using adhesive removers to get rid of residue from stickers or labels prior to cleaning.
• Avoid mixing cleaners together, as the chemicals may react to form dangerous gases.
• Tinted windows may require different care, so consult the manufacturer's instructions.
• Prevent spots from appearing even when it rains, snows or sleets. Apply a rain shield according to the manufacturer's instructions.