The Best Way to Clean Windows
Discover the best method to clean windows for a clear, streak-free view.
1. Eliminate dust and dirt
Your first port of call should be to eliminate traces of dust or dirt. External windows are best cleaned on a cloudy day rather than a sunny day as you won’t have to deal with any glares from the sun. Use a vacuum cleaner or hard brush to buff away dirt particles first. This will make it easier to clean with a special cleaning solution. When cleaning the inside of windows, remove any blinds. You can then clean these separately with a cloth and soapy water.
2. Use the Correct Cleaner
On internal windows, use a special glass cleaner in a spray bottle. With this, you can simply spritz all over your window so there’s less mess. Use a generous amount if your windows look dirty. Depending on how filthy the windows are, you may need to do this twice. First, clean your windows with paper towels to remove traces of dirt. Spray the cleaner again but use a microfiber cloth to buff as you go. This will prevent streaks from forming. Check out our list of green cleaning products here.
3. Alternatively, Use A DIY Cleaner
If you prefer to use homemade cleaning solutions then you can mix half a cup of white vinegar with a quarter cup of rubbing alcohol and two cups of water. If you’re following this method, try and place the mixture in a plastic spray bottle for ease of use. You can use this with a paper towel or special microfiber cloth for glass surfaces.
4. Use A Squeegee Blade on Big Windows
Professional window cleaners always use squeegees for cleaning. While you can get away without using these on smaller windows, they’ll help to save time on larger windows. With a bucket of warm, soapy water, use a hard sponge to soak up the water and clean your external windows. Remember to use rubber gloves to protect your hands from dirt.
5. Begin with The Frames
On external windows, start with the frames first. Soapy water should work but if the frames are extra dirty, then you can try adding a mild detergent to the water or a specialist cleaning product. Make sure you get into every corner of the frame.
6. Work In an ‘S’ Shape
When cleaning the pane of glass, use your sponge in an ‘s’ shape. This should help to prevent smearing and ensure that you clean every part of the glass window. You don’t need to use gallons of water to ensure your window is clean. Dip your sponge in the bucket once to begin with and squeeze out any excess water. Once you’ve completed one ‘s’ shape, go over with a clean cloth to remove dirt and water. Then, dip your sponge into the bucket of warm, soapy water again and squeeze it. Go over the glass a second time.
7. Use A Squeegee for A Streak-Free Finish
Use a squeegee in an ‘s’ shape to remove any traces of the cleaning solution. This will also provide a streak-free finish. Wipe the blade on a cloth in-between cleaning as this will prevent you from smearing dirt all over your window.
8. Wipe the Edges of The Window
Wipe the window edges with a clean microfiber cloth to eliminate any remaining soap or cleaning solution. This should be enough but sometimes the edges can still appear dirty or stained. If this occurs, you may need to use a cream cleaner (or whitening product on white window edges) and buff it in to make your window look sparkling.
9. Repeat on Large Inside Windows
You can use soapy water and a squeegee on large internal windows, just be mindful of any soapy suds falling on the floor. It’s a good idea to use a cleaning brush with a pole for windows that are high up as they can be tricky to reach on a ladder.
Perfect Clean Provide Exceptional Window Cleaning for Streak-Free Windows
Washing windows is a tough, physical task. If you need assistance with cleaning your office windows, Perfect Clean are here to help! Our highly experienced office cleaners are trained to clean windows of all sizes, ensuring they’ve never looked better. If you’re based in the north of England or Scotland, get in touch now to discover how we can assist your business.
