How to Wash Your Windows

Gloved hand cleaning window
  • 1 hours
  • Beginner
  • 20
What You'll Need
Bucket
Cleaning solution
Sponges
Squeegee
Lint-free cloths
Cloth rags
Vacuum
Broom
Dustpan
Brush
What You'll Need
Bucket
Cleaning solution
Sponges
Squeegee
Lint-free cloths
Cloth rags
Vacuum
Broom
Dustpan
Brush

Ideally, the windows in your home should be thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis or at the very least once if not twice a year. Windows give us a taste of the outdoors and bring natural light and sunshine into the home, but enjoyable 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 Cleaning

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 - Washing 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 pane.

Step 4 - Drying 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 direction. 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 - Wiping 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 - Completing the Cleaning

Wipe any drips from the windowsill with the cloth rag. Carefully wipe the exterior of the windows including sills and tracks. Dispose of any debris in the trash.

Step 7 - 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 the next time you clean. Discard any used newspapers properly, and enjoy your sparkling clean windows.