How to clean windows

Before you begin, it’s important to remove dirt from the areas surrounding the window glass. Loose dirt and grime from the frames or tracks can easily transfer onto your windows during the cleaning process. Grab a microfibre cloth and wipe down the window frames, seals, and tracks. These spots often collect more dirt build up than the glass itself, so take your time to thoroughly clean them. This will prevent any dust or debris from spreading while you clean the windows.

Not sure what’s the best window cleaner to use? For your cleaning solution, you can use a store-bought window cleaning product or mix up your own at home. A D.I.Y. solution can be made by combining clean water, a small amount of dish soap, and vinegar. Adding a splash of dishwasher rinse aid is a great trick to help rainwater slide off the glass, keeping your windows looking cleaner for longer.

Pour the cleaning solution into a bucket, so you’re ready to apply it to the glass.

Once the window tracks and frames are clean, it’s time to focus on the windows. Dip a window washer or a soft brush or sponge into the bucket of cleaning solution. Apply it generously to the entire window, working from the top of the window to the bottom. This method ensures that any dirt or grime is loosened and carried downward as you work.

To avoid water spots, it’s important to dry windows thoroughly after cleaning. Use a squeegee to remove the solution and achieve a streak-free finish. Start at the top corner of the window and pull the squeegee down in straight, even lines. Be sure to wipe the blade with a clean microfibre cloth after each pass. This prevents the squeegee from spreading water or dirt back onto the glass.

Once the glass is clean, use a dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the edges and corners of the window to catch any drips or missed spots.

If you’re after an even quicker and easier clean, consider using a window vacuum. After applying the cleaning solution, run the windows vac over the surface of the glass. It will suck up the soapy water along with any dirt, leaving you with perfectly dry and sparkling windows.

Exterior windows done? After the outside window glass is spotless, move indoors to clean the interior windows. Spray the glass with a window cleaning spray (or add homemade window cleaning solution to a refillable trigger spray bottle) and use a microfibre cloth to wipe it clean. If you don’t have a microfibre cloth on hand, newspaper or paper towel works just as well and won’t leave lint behind.