Clean a Window Is Not as Hard as You Think

We’ll show you exactly how professionals clean windows, sharing their tried-and-true techniques so you can achieve the same spotless, streak-free results at home with ease.

Cleaning windows might seem like a simple task, but achieving a streak-free, sparkling finish can be challenging—at least, that’s the
common perception. However, the truth is that it’s much simpler than you might think! With just a few key techniques and the right tools, you can achieve the same spotless, professional results that expert window cleaners do. Don’t be intimidated by the process; instead, think of it as an opportunity to master a skill that will leave your windows looking crystal clear every time.

Professional window cleaners have spent years perfecting their methods, but that doesn’t mean you need years of experience to achieve similar results. In fact, with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be cleaning your windows like a pro in no time. And the best part? It’s not just about getting your windows clean—it’s about making the process so simple and effective that you’ll wonder why you ever found it daunting.

We’ll also cover how to maintain your window sealants, ensuring your windows aren’t just clean but also well-protected against the elements. By the end of this guide, you’ll see that with just a little effort and the right approach, you can achieve stunning results that rival those of any professional. So, let’s dive in and discover how easy it really is to make your windows sparkle!

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bucket: A large bucket for mixing your cleaning solution.
• Squeegee: A quality squeegee with a rubber blade. This is essential for a streak-free finish.
• Microfiber Cloths: These are great for wiping down frames and edges without leaving lint.
• Window Cleaning Solution: You can use a commercial cleaner or make your own by mixing water with a few drops of dish soap and a splash of vinegar.
• Scrubber or Sponge: A scrubber pad or sponge helps loosen dirt and grime.
• Extension Pole: If you’re cleaning high or large windows, an extension pole is a must for safety and efficiency.
• Glass Coating (Optional): To provide an extra layer of protection and enhance the shine of your windows, consider using a glass coating product. This will help repel water and dirt, making it easier to keep your windows clean over time.

2. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution

Before you begin, the first step is to prepare your cleaning solution. This is a crucial part of the process, as the right mixture will help you achieve a streak-free finish. Fill your bucket with lukewarm water—this temperature helps dissolve dirt and grime more effectively without causing streaks. Add your chosen cleaning solution to the water. If you’re using dish soap, just a few drops are sufficient. Too much soap can leave a residue on the glass, making it harder to achieve that perfect finish. A small splash of vinegar can also help cut through grease and leave the glass shining.

3. Start with the Frames, Sills, and Sealant

Before you even touch the glass, it’s important to start with the window frames, sills, and sealant. This step is often overlooked, but it’s key to achieving a truly professional result.

Clean the Frames and Sills

Dust, dirt, and cobwebs tend to accumulate around the edges of windows, and if you skip this step, you’ll end up spreading that dirt onto your freshly cleaned glass. Use a damp microfiber cloth to carefully wipe down the frames and sills. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, as this will prevent debris from being transferred onto the glass during the cleaning process.

Inspect and Maintain the Sealant

While you’re cleaning the frames, take a moment to inspect the sealant around the edges of the window. This is where the glass meets the frame, and it’s crucial for keeping your windows airtight and insulated. Look closely for any cracks, gaps, or areas where the sealant might be peeling or missing. If you find any issues, it’s important to address them before you start cleaning the glass. A quick clean of the area with your microfiber cloth will prepare it for new sealant if needed.

If you do need to apply new sealant, make sure the area is dry and free of debris. Apply a bead of sealant carefully, smoothing it with your finger or a caulking tool for a neat finish. This step not only protects your windows from the elements but also ensures that dirt and moisture don’t seep in and cause further issues.

Start with the Corners and Edges

When you move on to the glass itself, it’s good practice to start with the corners and edges first. These areas can be tricky because the squeegee isn’t very flexible in tight spaces. By addressing the corners and edges before moving to the larger areas of glass, you ensure that every part of the window is thoroughly cleaned. Use your microfiber cloth or a smaller cleaning tool to gently clean these areas. This approach also helps to prevent streaks, as you won’t have to drag dirt from the edges across the rest of the glass.

Once the frames, sills, and sealants are clean and checked, and the corners and edges have been carefully cleaned, you’re ready to move on to the rest of the window with confidence. This methodical approach not only makes the process easier but also ensures that you’re left with a perfectly clean, professional-looking window every time.

4. Wet the Window

With the frames, sills, and edges taken care of, it’s now time to turn your attention to the glass itself. This step is crucial because applying the cleaning solution evenly ensures that the window will be spotless and free of streaks.

How to Wet the Window Properly:

• Dip Your Scrubber or Sponge: Immerse your scrubber or sponge into the bucket of cleaning solution. Make sure it’s thoroughly soaked, as this will help in spreading the solution evenly across the glass.
• Start at the Top: Always begin cleaning from the top of the window. Gravity will naturally cause the solution to drip downward, so starting at the top allows you to control the flow and ensures you’re not wasting effort by cleaning areas that will just get dripped on later.
• Use Circular Motions: Apply the solution to the glass in gentle circular motions. This technique helps to break up dirt and grime, making it easier to remove later with the squeegee. Be thorough, but don’t worry about getting every spot perfect at this stage—just focus on wetting the entire surface.
• Keep the Glass Wet: One of the biggest challenges in window cleaning is avoiding streaks, which often occur when the cleaning solution dries before you have a chance to squeegee it off. To prevent this, work quickly and ensure that the glass remains wet throughout the process. If you’re cleaning larger windows or working in direct sunlight, consider wetting the window in sections to keep the solution from drying too quickly.

5. Squeegee the Window

This is where the magic happens—using a squeegee properly is the key to achieving that professional, streak-free finish. While it might seem intimidating at first, with a little practice, you’ll find that squeegeeing is actually quite simple and satisfying.

Mastering the Squeegee Technique:

• Start at the Top Corner: Begin at the top left or right corner of the window, depending on what feels most comfortable for you. Hold the squeegee at a slight angle, with the rubber blade pressed against the glass.
• Address the Corners and Edges First: As mentioned earlier, the squeegee isn’t very flexible in tight spaces, so it’s a good idea to clean the corners and edges first. Use your microfiber cloth or a smaller cleaning tool to carefully remove dirt and solution from these areas before moving on to the main sections of the glass.
• Smooth, Long Strokes: Pull the squeegee across the window in long, smooth strokes, maintaining consistent pressure. Each stroke should slightly overlap the previous one to ensure no water is left behind. Try to keep the squeegee moving steadily—stopping or hesitating can lead to streaks or water lines.
• Wipe the Blade After Each Stroke: After each pass, wipe the rubber blade of the squeegee with a clean microfiber cloth. This prevents water from dripping back onto the glass and causing streaks.

6. Wipe the Edges

Even with the best squeegee technique, there’s usually a bit of water left around the edges of the window. This step ensures that your windows are completely dry and free of streaks or watermarks.

Finishing Touches:

• Use a Dry Microfiber Cloth: Grab a clean, dry microfiber cloth and gently wipe around the edges of the window. Focus on the areas where the squeegee couldn’t reach, like the corners and the very edges of the glass.
• Catch Any Drips: As you wipe, be on the lookout for any drips or spots that may have been missed by the squeegee. A quick pass with the cloth should be enough to catch these and leave the glass spotless.
• Check for Streaks: Finally, step back and inspect your work. If you see any streaks or marks, don’t worry—a quick buff with the microfiber cloth will usually take care of them. If necessary, you can repeat the squeegee process on any particularly stubborn areas.