Window Cleaning

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-365 -- More Projects »
Window-washing expert James Carlson shares tips for doing a professional-grade job of cleaning windows.
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Figure A

  • Assemble the following tools before washing windows: a strip washer (figure A) or cellulose sponge to apply the cleaning solution, squeegee, wide-mouth five-gallon bucket of cleaner and rags.

  • Start by cleaning the windowsills and frames to prevent soiling freshly washed windowpanes. Use a shop-type vacuum cleaner to clean the sills, then wipe them down with a solution of mild dishwashing detergent and warm water. Once these are clean, move them on to the glass.
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Figure B
  • Take a strip washer (found at most home stores) or a sponge and wipe off the window. Use enough cleaning liquid to dissolve dirt but not so much that the window is a dripping mess (figure B). A good rule of thumb is to use less solution for smaller panes of glass.
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    Figure C
  • Next squeegee the window dry (figure C). The most efficient way to squeegee a window is to pull the squeegee across the top of the window. Then, starting on either side, pull the squeegee down to nearly the bottom of the window. Continue to do this in overlapping strokes from one side of the window to the other.

  • Finish by pulling the squeegee across the bottom of the window. Be sure to wipe the squeegee dry with each stroke. It is helpful to carry two rags. Use one to wipe up the mess from the windowsill and one to clean the glass around the frame.

  • Newspaper is often touted as the best material for wiping windows. However, it does have its drawbacks. One problem is that newspaper is not very absorbent and leaves traces of the cleaner on the window. Also, once the cleaner gets on the paper the inks used in modern newspapers begins to run and may result in actually making the windows dirtier.

  • Windows that are dried with a squeegee stay clean longer than those cleaned with paper towels. Scrubbing with a paper towel creates a static charge on the window, which attracts dust.

  • Other materials to consider are cloth diapers or tight-knit towels, both of which do not leave behind lint. The towels can be found at most mechanics shops.

  • Quickly clean a few indoor windows with a cloth that has been soaked in white vinegar.

  • Wash the windows in the morning. Heat can cause the windows to streak because the washing solution dries too quickly. If there's no way to avoid washing windows on a sunny day, try to stay on the side of the house that's opposite the sun.

  • Use an alcohol-based rain shield on the outside of freshly cleaned windows to keep them from spotting. Rain shield can be purchased at an automotive store. Apply according to package directions and buff off.

  • If sticky spots remain on the windows after washing, try scraping the spot away with a new razor blade. Pour a little water over the spot, then scrape gently with a brand new razor blade. It's best to test the hardness of the glass first. Scrape an inconspicuous area of a window with the razor blade to make sure the glass is not soft and susceptible to scratches.

  • Attach the squeegee to a long pole to clean high windows instead of climbing up a ladder. This is much safer, but be aware of power lines.

    Here are three ideas for making cleaning solutions:


    • The simplest and best solution is two teaspoons of liquid dish soap mixed with five gallons of lukewarm water.

    • Plain lukewarm water without soap works fine if the windows are not too dirty. Plus it's practically free and it doesn't leave streaks on a warm day.

    • Mix 1/2 cup nonstreaking ammonia (which can be found at many grocery stores and is labeled nonstreaking), one pint rubbing alcohol, and one teaspoon dishwashing detergent. Add enough water to make a gallon of solution.
    • Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-365
    •Springtime Skin Care
    •Spring Gift Ideas
    •Window Cleaning
    •Tip of the Day