Effective Window Cleaning Tips: A Practical Guide

Cleaning windows can take time and effort, but with the right preparation, the process becomes significantly easier and faster. Choose the right tools and methods, and the results will pleasantly surprise you.

Cleaning the Outside of Windows

Step 1. Gather Your Tools

Collect all necessary tools in advance. Make sure you have everything you need to avoid wasting time searching during the task.

Step 2. Remove Sliding Windows (if applicable)

If possible, remove the sliding windows. In most high-rise buildings, these windows can be easily taken out by lifting them and pulling them into the room. Although it seems simple, large windows may require assistance to avoid difficulties. Otherwise, you won’t be able to clean the outside of the windows.

Step 3. Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Pour warm water into a bucket and add some dish soap of your choice.

Step 4. Remove the Insect Screens

Take off the insect screens. Why do this? To eliminate dirt that can settle on the windows after rain, as well as to get rid of any unpleasant mold smell. To do this:

• Pull the screen out of its fittings and rinse it under running water.
• Gently wipe the screen with a cloth or window brush.

Step 5. Remove Cobwebs from Windows

Use an old broom or cloth to clear away any cobwebs from the windows.

Step 6. Rinse Off Dirt from the Outside of Windows

Use a hose to wash off dust and dirt from the outside of the windows.

Step 7. Wipe Down Window Frames

Take a damp sponge and thoroughly wipe the window frames.

Step 8. Start Cleaning the Windows

Soak the sponge in the bucket of water and clean the windows using one of the following methods:

• Start from the top left corner of the window and move to the bottom right corner in a zigzag pattern.
• Begin at the top left corner and move downwards. Use a dry cloth to wipe excess water from the rubber squeegee, continuing until you reach the right edge of the window.
• Don’t forget to wipe the squeegee with a dry cloth to avoid streaks on the glass.

Step 9. Dry the Window Frames

After cleaning the glass, take a dry cloth and wipe down the window frames until dry.

Cleaning the Inside of Windows

Step 1. Prepare Your Tools

Step 2. Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Pour warm water into a bucket and add some dish soap of your choice.

Step 3. Lay a Towel on the Floor

Step 4. Dust the Windows

Use a cloth to remove dust from the windows.

Step 5. Wipe Down Window Frames

Take a damp sponge and carefully wipe the window frames.

Step 6. Start Cleaning the Windows

Soak the sponge in water and begin cleaning the windows using one of these methods:

• Start from the top left corner of the window, moving to the bottom right corner in a zigzag pattern.
• Begin at the top left corner and move down, wiping excess water from the rubber squeegee with a dry cloth until you reach the right edge.
• Remember to wipe the squeegee with a dry cloth to avoid streaks.

Step 7. Dry the Window Frames

After cleaning the glass, use a dry cloth for the final wipe down.

Alternative Cleaning Method

Step 1. Prepare Warm Water

Pour warm water into a bucket. Warm water removes sand and dirt more effectively than cold water. However, be cautious: if it’s cold outside, hot water can cause the glass to crack.

Step 2. Prepare Alcohol

Use isopropyl alcohol — it’s an excellent window cleaning solution. Avoid using wine or other alcoholic beverages that contain various types of alcohol.

Step 3. Prepare Paper Towels

Purchase lint-free paper towels or even toilet paper to avoid leaving lint on the glass.

Step 4. Mix Alcohol with Water

Add ¼ alcohol to the water.

Step 5. Allow the Mixture to Sit

Step 6. Mix Thoroughly

Step 7. Soak the Towel in the Solution

Step 8. Wipe the Window

Wipe the window using horizontal and vertical motions.

Step 9. Dry the Window

Use another towel to dry the window, following the same horizontal and vertical motions.