10 Simple Window Cleaning Tips

You’ve invested a lot in your windows, so it’s only natural to want to keep them clean and looking their best! The traditional method of using glass cleaner and newspaper or paper towels to clean your dirty windows is no longer considered the best method. It’s time to embrace more effective cleaning techniques. Keeping your windows clean not only enhances the look of your home but improves visibility and natural light. A thorough cleaning routine can also boost curb appeal while extending the lifespan of your windows by preventing the buildup of dirt, grime, and hard water stains.

So without further ado, here are some professional cleaning tips to help you achieve spotless, clean windows.

Choose the Right Cleaning Solutions

That bright blue window cleaner in your cupboard is indeed one of the oldest cleaners on the market, but it’s also one of the worst things to put on your windows. Why? Because it leaves behind a waxy, streaky, and hard-to-remove film. Each time you use run-of-the-mill glass cleaner on your windows, that film builds up and spreads the dirt and dust, making your view hazier with each use.

You should also stay away from harsh chemicals like ammonia, which can be dangerous to work with. Instead, clean your windows with a solution of warm water and gentle dish soap (like Dawn). About one bucket of warm water and an ounce of dish soap will create a cleaning solution far more effective – and far more affordable – than the pre-packaged alternatives.

…and the Right Cleaning Tools

To achieve streak-free, clean windows you’ll need to use the right cleaning tools. Instead of using paper towels, which often leave lint and debris, try a microfiber cloth. A two-bucket cleaning system is also essential to prevent the reapplication of dirty water. One bucket will hold cleaning solution, and a second bucket will hold plain water. You should also consider buying a high-quality squeegee for better water removal and to prevent hard to remove streaks.

Prepare Your Windows before Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning, it’s always best to do some prep work for best results. You can start by cleaning dirt, dust and other debris from the frames and sills with a vacuum or soft cleaning brush. If your window tracks are dirty, they’ll accumulate grime faster, so cleaning them thoroughly is crucial. You should use warm, soapy water to wipe down your window frames and tackle stubborn stains. For smudges or marks, use a non-abrasive cleaner.

A trick we like to recommend for deep cleaning window tracks is to use a soft bristle vacuum cleaner attachment. Vacuuming can remove large debris. Follow up with a damp soft cloth to remove finer dirt.

Use the Right Window Cleaning Methods

When cleaning the glass, technique is everything! Dip the microfiber cloth into your bucket of window cleaning solution, wash your windows in a zig-zag motion to help prevent streaks, and then rinse the cloth in a second bucket of plain water. When cleaning big windows, use a squeegee for a cleaner finish. You should try to clean your windows starting from top to bottom to avoid dripping water and cleaning solution onto areas you’ve already cleaned.

Give Your Window Screens Some Love Too

Just like the glass in your windows, your window screens also need regular maintenance to keep them dirt- and dust-free. A great way to remove loose debris and dust is to use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush attachment. For tougher grime, you can gently scrub the clean window screens with a sponge, warm water, and a mild detergent. But be careful to only use light pressure; window screens are delicate and may bend easily.

We also suggest removing the screens completely from the frame so you can wet them down outside. Lay them flat and scrub both sides using a soft brush before rinsing. Make sure to let the clean window screens dry completely before reinstalling so that you don’t risk any buildup of mold and mildew.

Apply a Little Elbow Grease—or Dish Soap

When it comes to more stubborn stains and dirt, you should consider using a few drops of dish soap directly on the dirty area, then gently scrubbing it with a microfiber cloth. A brush with harder bristles might also help with tougher spots on window frames, though you shouldn’t use brushes that are so firm they can scratch the finish. As mentioned above, harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can also cause damage, so it’s best to avoid them.

Take Care When Drying

Though cleaning gets top billing, drying your windows can be just as important to avoiding water spots and streaks. When you’re finished with your washing regimen, grab a dry microfiber cloth and a squeegee to wipe away any remaining residue and to remove excess water. Chamois cloths are another great tool for drying, as they are very absorbent and lint-free. And don’t forget to dry your clean windows in direct sunlight, if possible, for a spot- and streak-free finish.

Add the Final Touches

Once you’re done with washing and drying, you should always carefully inspect your work so you can spot-clean any streaks or stains you missed. If you didn’t already, you should also use a microfiber cloth to wipe down your window frames and ledges to remove dust and excess dirt. We recommend using a coffee filter to wipe down clean windows to help achieve a completely lint-free and streak-free finish.

Perform Year-Round Maintenance

Performing regular window maintenance is critical to keeping your windows in their best condition. You should make a plan to clean your windows at least twice annually – and maybe more than that if you live in an area with high levels of pollen. Cleaning your windows not only keeps them looking good, but keeps them functional and sound. It gives you a chance to inspect your windows and the surrounding frame and sill to make sure there’s no rot, separation or other issues that could lead to poor insulation or the need for window replacement.

Don’t Risk Your Safety

Now that you’re ready to clean your windows, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that washing windows can be dangerous! If you’re cleaning windows yourself, always have someone stabilize your ladder to mitigate your risk of a fall. Even professionals use the buddy system when working on hard to reach interior and exterior windows.

For hard to reach windows, you should think about investing in a telescoping window cleaning tool. These kinds of tools make it much easier to clean high up windows without a ladder. If you have a multi-story home, you might also consider hiring a professional window cleaner, who will safely and thoroughly clean those hard to reach spots.

Now Sit Back and Enjoy the View!

Remember, it’s important to clean your windows, not only to improve how your home looks but for a healthier indoor environment with more natural light. If you follow these essential cleaning tips, it will be easier to keep your windows nice and clean year-round. A little effort goes a long way in enhancing your home’s appearance and maximizing your view!

That’s why Door Store and Windows customers get a voucher for Sunshine Window Company with the purchase of eight or more replacement windows. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your windows, there’s no better time. Contact us to get started today with a free consultation with one of our window specialists!

For more helpful tips, visit our window and door operation, care and maintenance maintenance page or check out the video below.

Marvin Windows also has some tips you can review HERE.