How to Clean Your Windows Inside and Outside: A Complete Guide
Sparkling clean windows can instantly brighten a home, improve your view, and even boost your mood. But cleaning windows—especially the outside—can feel like a daunting chore. With the right techniques, tools, and a bit of patience, you can achieve streak-free results both inside and out.
What You’ll Need
- Bucket of warm water
- Mild dish soap or window cleaner
- Microfiber cloths or lint-free towels
- Squeegee
- Soft brush or sponge
- Step ladder (for high windows)
- Optional: vinegar for tough spots
Step 1: Prepare Your Windows
Start by removing dust, cobwebs, and loose dirt with a soft brush or cloth. This prevents scratching the glass when you clean it. For exterior windows, check for debris like leaves or bird droppings and rinse briefly with water if necessary.
Step 2: Make a Cleaning Solution
You can use:
- Commercial window cleaner
- DIY solution: Mix 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water, or a few drops of dish soap in a bucket of warm water.
Step 3: Cleaning the Inside Windows
- Spray the window with your solution or dip a cloth in your soapy water.
- Wipe in circular motions to loosen dirt and grime.
- Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to buff the glass and remove streaks.
- Don’t forget the window sills and frames—they often hold the most dust.
Step 4: Cleaning the Outside Windows
- Wet the glass with your solution, using a sponge or cloth.
- For stubborn dirt, gently scrub with a soft brush.
- Use a squeegee: start at the top and pull down in straight lines, wiping the blade with a cloth between strokes.
- Buff any remaining streaks with a clean microfiber cloth.
Tip: Avoid cleaning windows in direct sunlight. The solution can dry too quickly, leaving streaks.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Wipe window frames and sills dry.
- Inspect from different angles to catch any smudges.
- Repeat as needed for a spotless finish.
Extra Tips for Streak-Free Windows
- Use a microfiber cloth or newspaper instead of paper towels to avoid lint.
- Replace dirty water regularly.
- Vinegar helps remove mineral deposits from rain or hard water.
- For second-story windows, consider an extendable squeegee or professional help for safety.
The Takeaway
Clean windows make a home feel brighter, fresher, and more inviting. By following these simple steps and using the right tools, you can maintain sparkling, streak-free glass all year round—inside and out.
