The Best Way to Clean Windows, According to Our Cleaning Lab

That squeegee just might make a bigger mess.

Over time, pollution and grime accumulate slowly but surely on your windows, obstructing your view and blocking precious sunlight. The only thing worse? Thick streaks left behind by improper cleaning.

To keep your vista clear (and your light-loving houseplants happy), follow this expert advice from Carolyn Forte, Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab. With the right spray, cloth, and technique, your windows will have never looked better.

1. Choose a dry, cloudy day.

«Do this job in the blazing sun and the cleaner will dry onto the hot windows before you get to wipe it off, leaving hard-to-remove streaks,» Forte says. If the weather won’t cooperate, start on the shady side of the house.

2. Remove dirt and dust first.

Before you get started, sweep dirt from the window frame with a brush or vacuum it up with your machine’s dusting attachment. This will prevent dirt from turning into a muddy mess when mixed with a cleaner. If your window screen looks especially grimy, pop it out and wash with hot, sudsy water and a soft brush, then rinse and let dry before putting it back.

For quickly dusting shades and blinds, Forte recommends going over both sides with a microfiber duster or opening the slats and going over each one with a damp cloth and followed by a dry one.

LAB TIP: You can also refresh your curtains at the same time by putting them in the dryer for 15 minutes on an «air-only» cycle and rehanging quickly to prevent wrinkles.

3. Pick the right cleaner — and spritz generously.

Don’t hold back on the spray, especially if your windows look extra dirty. «You need plenty of cleaner to dissolve and suspend the dirt so it can be completely wiped away — skimp and you’ll be seeing streaks,» Forte says.

She recommends Invisible Glass Cleaner With EZ Grip. The fine mist from the bottle stays where you spray until you wipe it, meaning less drips and mess. Check out these other top-tested cleaners depending on the job too:

How to Wash Your Windows

Ideally, the windows in your home should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a year, if not twice a year. Windows give us a taste of the outdoors and bring light into the home, but only if we can actually see through them.

Cleaning the windows does not have to be a dreaded task. Simply break it down into manageable chunks that are productive, but not overwhelming. Divide the home into sections, such as first and second floor windows, bedroom and bathroom windows, all other living area windows, or each side of the home. Better yet, have a window washing party for your family and provide music, snacks, and lunch. Remember to schedule your window cleaning for a day without much sun. Too much sun tends to dry the windows too quickly, leading to unsightly streaks.

Step 1 — Vacuum

Using a dusting brush attachment, vacuum the interior side of the windowsills and frames.

Step 2 — Get the Sponge Wet

Wet the cleaning sponge or cloth in the cleaning solution, carefully squeezing any excess from the sponge or cloth.

Step 3 — Wash the Window

Wash the window with circular movements. Wash from the corners and outer perimeter of the window towards the interior or center of the window.

Step 4 — Dry the Window

Dry the window using the squeegee, paper towels, lint-free cloth, or newspapers. Start in one of the upper corners of the window. All of the strokes that you make should go in the same directions. If you apply vertical strokes on one side of the window and horizontal strokes on the other side of the window, you will be able to tell which side has the streaks if any appear. If you are using crumpled newspaper to dry, you should consider wearing a pair of cleaning gloves to avoid getting any ink on your hands. The ink will not transfer to the windows.

Step 5 — Wipe Drips

Once you have given the window a once-over drying treatment, wipe any drips that remain with a clean, dry cloth, preferably a chamois cloth. Otherwise, allow them to air dry to avoid creating any smears.

Step 6 — Use a Rag

Wipe any drips from the windowsill with the cloth rag.

Step 7 — Sweep

Carefully sweep the exterior of the windows including sills and tracks. Dispose of any debris in the trash.

Step 8 — Wash Exterior

Wash the exterior of the windows following the above steps, with the exception of the vacuuming.

Rinse the sponges, bucket, and cleaning cloths so they are ready for next time you clean. Discard any used newspapers properly, and enjoy your sparkling clean windows.

How to Wash Windows

Ideally, windows should be washed twice a year. There are two primary methods that can be used.

Cleaning Windows with a Squeegee

This is the method used by most professional window cleaners, and results in streak-free, spotless windows.

What you will need:

• Dish liquid
• Squeegee
• Clean cloth or sponge
• 2 buckets of water

Instructions:

1. Mix your cleaning solution, using 4 to 6 drops of dish liquid to 2 gallons of warm water. You can also use 1 cup of vinegar to 1 quart of water, or 1 cap full of ammonia per 2 gallons of water. The solutions work equally well, and it is really just a matter of personal preference.
2. Wet your cloth or sponge with the cleaning solution and wipe the window using broad circular motions. Pay close attention to corners and edges where dirt and grime tend to accumulate.
3. Dip the squeegee in clean water and then starting from the very top of the window pull it vertically down (from top to bottom) stopping an inch or two from the bottom.
4. Wipe the squeegee, dip in clean water, and repeat on the next section of the window.
5. When the entire window has been cleaned, wipe the squeegee and run it horizontally along the bottom of the window to remove any remaining water.
6. Using a clean paper towel or lint-free cloth, wipe up areas missed by the squeegee (i.e. along the edges and in the corners).
7. Wipe up any excess water on the window sill.

TIP: For stubborn residue or spots (i.e. paint or stuck-on bird droppings) gently scrape with a new razor blade. Careful though; always handle razor blades with extreme care. It is advised that you wear work gloves or use a scraper tool made for this purpose.

Spray and Wipe

This method is not as effective and is a little more difficult than the squeegee method, but is useful for smaller window panes where a squeegee won’t fit.

What you will need:

• Commercial Spray cleaner for windows (The foaming kind works best as it does not drip)
• Paper towels, newspaper, or lint-free cloths

Instructions:

1. Spray on cleaner in an “S” pattern zigzagging across the entire window pane.
2. Using a clean paper towel, wipe the window in a circular motion. Discard paper towel
3. Using another clean paper towel, wipe the remaining residue from the window using a smooth circular motion.

TIP: To save money and prevent lint from being left on the windows, newspaper may be used instead of paper towels.

How to Clean Elevated Exterior Windows

Unless you have casement windows which can be opened and cleaned from inside the house, second story windows can be a challenge. Ultimately the best way to reach the outside of those windows for cleaning is to use a ladder. NEVER hang out or dangle from an open window for cleaning or any other purpose!

• Inspect your ladder thoroughly before use for any defects or problems. NEVER use a ladder that appears damaged or unstable.
• Make sure your ladder is tall enough to safely reach the windows without standing on the top two rungs. .
• Position the ladder beside the house so that it is leaning on solid surface. .
• NEVER lean your ladder up against a gutter for support. The gutter is not strong enough to safely support the ladder or you. .
• NEVER lean your ladder up against the window glass. .
• ALWAYS work with a partner or someone nearby in the event of an emergency. .
• Make sure your ladder is placed securely on the ground and is as even as possible. Many hardware stores sell ladder stabilizers. It is also helpful have someone stand at the bottom to hold the ladder for extra support. .

Cleaning Windows From a Ladder:

1. Place your ladder in a location where you can comfortably reach the window you are cleaning without leaning to one side or the other. TIP: If your house has aluminum siding, wrap a rag around the part of the ladder leaning against the building so that it’s less likely to scratch the siding. Secure it with a rubber band.
2. Carry as little as possible when climbing the ladder, making extra trips if you have to. TIP: Rest your cleaning supplies on the window ledge, or hang them in a bucket from the ladder (many hardware stores sell tools designed for this purpose). You could also wear a workman’s apron or tool belt to help hold your supplies as you work.
3. Keep your weight evenly centered.
4. Use either cleaning method described above, working on only one window at a time. Pass cleaning materials from hand to hand behind your back so that you are not tempted to lean back and also to avoid scratching or damaging the siding on your house.

Additional Tips

If you have a fear of heights or have difficulty working on a ladder, you should call a professional to clean the outside windows. Many companies offer window cleaning services at very reasonable prices. Check your local yellow pages. You can also contact your local Chamber of Commerce. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the quality or reputation of local window cleaning services, check them out the Better Business Bureau before you hire.

How to Wash Windows: A Step by Step Guide

Replacement windows look great. Yet there is a time (and it usually doesn’t take too long) before the elements take control and make even the freshest glass look dirty and tired. Therefore, it’s important to know how to correctly wash windows in order to maintain that vivid, clear appearance you recall when the windows were first installed in the home.

The article is designed to provide you with a step by step guide on how to wash windows.

How to Wash Windows Quick and Effectively

There is no misunderstanding that cleaning windows is a chore. There are very few homeowners that actually look forward to completing the task. Yet it’s mandatory if you want your windows to maintain the best appearance.

Fortunately, there are methods that can reduce the time spent on each window while also getting the clearest, streak-free clean possible.

First, you need to have the right tools and accessories (more details, below). It’s time to ditch the spray bottle and paper towels and transition into a squeegee. Squeegees are inexpensive window washing accessories and it helps make the job far easier.

Secondly, you must consider your limitations. If you have a bad back or shoulders, it’s not advisable to use an extension pole on second-story windows. You’re just going to aggravate the ailment. You can also help yourself by picking the right time of the day to prevent heat exhaustion yet take advantage of the warm, dry weather at the same time.

Window Washing Accessories

The good news about window washing is that you don’t need to invest a lot in tools and accessories. However, having these essentials are a must for any home:

• Squeegee
• Extension pole
• Lint-free cloths
• Rubber gloves
• 5-gallon plastic bucket
• Mild dishwashing liquid, non-ammoniated all-purpose cleaner, or white vinegar

Additionally, you may need the following window washing accessories for certain projects:

• A sturdy ladder that is safety approved and appropriate for the job
• Large polyester or natural sea sponges
• Soft-bristle counter brush
• Straight-edged razor blades

Squeegees are very affordable and more effective compared to a spray bottle and paper towels for cleaning windows. You can pick up a new squeegee for $10 to $25. You’ll need to replace the blade on a squeegee as it gets dull and ineffective over time. You can tell when a squeegee blade needs replaced when it has nicks, slices, or is rounded off. Another dead giveaway for blade replacement is when the squeegee leaves streaks after use.

It also helps to invest in an extension pole. It makes the job much easier on your body, even for first-story windows. You should never feel like you are straining your shoulders, arms, or back when trying to reach a window.

Step One: Mix a Cleaning Solution

You can wash windows with a variety of different cleaners on the market. If you want to just create a basic solution from home, all you need is:

• 2 gallons of water
• Tsp. of dishwashing liquid

Mix the two ingredients together in a 5-gallon bucket and you’re ready to start washing your windows.

NOTE: Some homeowners prefer a stronger cleaning solution such as a non-ammoniated all-purpose cleaner. White vinegar can also complete the task at hand. Vinegar works well but it has more working time, then you can opt for cool water and dishwashing liquid instead.

Step Two: Prepare Your Squeegee

Though we find that using a squeegee for windows is the easiest and most effective, some homeowners prefer a window scrubber. It really comes down to personal preference.

Before you get started to examine the squeegee or scrubber. Are all the parts in working condition? Do you need to replace the blade on the squeegee? Perhaps you want to use a combination of the two window accessories?

Regardless gather everything you need before you get started including an extension pole and/or ladder.

Step Three: Dip the Scrubber in a Bucket

After you dip the scrubber in the bucket squeeze out the excess water. If you aren’t using a scrubber then you can use a clean lint-free towel for the same purpose.

Step Four: Scrub the Glass

Windows get hammered night and day by rain, snow, wind, dirt, and insects. Needless to say, they take some tough love to scrub out some of the more difficult areas of the glass.

It’s why a scrubber is recommended to really work in the bristles and get a deep clean. A towel can work you just need to put some muscle into it.

First, start at the edges and clean toward the middle. It will bring all the unwanted junk to the center of the glass making it easier for the squeegee to remove it permanently.

Step Five: Squeegee the Window Edges

After you have scrubbed down every inch of the glass, it’s time for the first pass of the squeegee.

We recommend that you begin by tipping the squeegee so only the corner contacts the glass. Then, starting at the top corner of the glass swipe a narrow strip of glass from top to bottom. Repeat the same maneuver on the other side of the window.

Step Six: Squeegee the Glass from Top to Bottom

Now that you have a clean strip along the edges you can work the squeegee horizontally from top to bottom for the final clean. Press the blade against the window in the upper corner and pull it firmly and steadily across the glass. It’s important to focus on keeping the top of the squeegee in contact with the top edge of the glass. It will avoid streaks.

You can move the squeegee horizontally or vertically. Vertical swipes sometimes require more of an effort to avoid streaks because you need to angle it properly in order to direct excess water toward the uncleaned area and not to the freshly cleaned spot.

Step Seven: Wipe the Squeegee Clean

Your squeegee will build up excess water and debris over time. So you can use a clean towel that’s conveniently placed in a front pocket of your pants or shorts to wipe the blade clean periodically.

Some professional cleaners choose to squeegee the entire window in one pass. Then, they wipe the blade clean and repeat the process a second time in order to clean up any remaining water or debris on the glass.

NOTE: On the second pass the squeegee should overlap the previous strokes by 1-2 inches. The overlap addresses the spots where the blade did not adequately absorb the water and dirt on the edges during the initial pass.

Step Eight: Remove the Remaining Water

If you properly clean the window the squeegee should do about 95 percent of the work. However, you’ll need a rag to wipe off the water the accessory couldn’t reach along the bottom edge of the window. The same goes for the other edges where glass meets the frame. Lint-free rags work really well on freshly cleaned glass because they don’t leave any evidence.

How to Wash Windows: Additional Notes

There is a common misconception among homeowners that squeegees aren’t appropriate for cleaning the interior of a window. That is actually false. Squeegees work well on interior glass too. You just need to exercise caution when running the blade along the edges, especially on frames that have a fancy stain or varnish. Now that you know how to wash windows, it’s time to put this strategy to the ultimate test on your own windows.