How To Clean Windows: 10 Tips To Leave No Streaks
2024-09-17
Keeping your windows clean is not just about making your home look good — clean windows let in more natural light and help protect them against damage from dirt and grime. If you skip this task, you could end up with dull windows that don’t last as long. The global market for window cleaning robots – in which the US has the largest market share – which was worth US$130.2 million in 2023, is expected to grow by 15.2% each year, hitting nearly US$350.58 million by 2030. This growth shows just how much people are realising the benefits of keeping their windows sparkling clean. Here are some tips that will come in handy when you clean your windows:
1. Choose the Right Cleaning Equipment
Picking the right cleaning equipment is key to making window-cleaning easier and more effective. Squeegees are great for getting rid of streaks and leaving your windows crystal clear, while microfiber cloths are perfect for wiping down frames and catching those last bits of dust. Cleaning solution — whether you opt for the store-bought variety or make a batch of your own — is essential for cutting through grime.
If you’re looking for a more modern approach, companies like ECOVACS offer robotic window cleaners that are automated, and have intelligent climbing systems and auto-spray mechanisms, providing a hands-free way to keep your windows spotless. The newer models come with multi-purpose docks that serve as a control panel, changer, stabler, and a portable storage room for your device, making it a convenient option for window-cleaning tasks.
2. Clean Windows on a Cloudy Day
Cleaning your windows on a cloudy day will give you the best results. This is because when the sun is shining bright, it can cause your cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, leaving behind streaks that are tough to remove. On a cloudy day, you don’t have to worry about that — the overcast skies give you more time to properly wash away the solution. Plus, without the sun’s glare, it’s easier to spot streaks or spots you might have missed.
3. Prep Windows Before Cleaning
Just as you should dust your windows before you vacuum the floor, you should also give your window frames and handles a good wipe-down before you start cleaning the glass. Dirt and grime tend to build up there, and if you don’t clean it off first, you risk dragging that dirt onto the glass, which can cause scratches. Next, use a soft brush or even a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose dirt and dust from the window surface. This step ensures you’re not just pushing dirt around when you start cleaning.
Finally, take a moment to identify any tough stains or grime spots. Give these areas a quick pre-treatment with a bit of cleaning solution, letting it sit for a minute or two before tackling the entire window.
4. Set Up Your Cleaning Equipment
Next, organize all your cleaning equipment beforehand so that everything is within reach. This way, you won’t have to stop mid-clean to look for a missing tool and can stay focused on the task at hand. Keep your equipment on the floor near the window you’re cleaning or carry it in a tool belt or pouch that you can wear on your waist. If you’re working on high or floor-to-ceiling windows, make sure you have a sturdy ladder ready — it’s essential for safely reaching those top spots.
If you’re using a robotic window cleaner, take the time to set it up properly. Most of these gadgets allow you to program them to cover specific areas, so double-check the settings on your smart window cleaner to ensure it’ll clean exactly where you need it to.
5. Focus on High-Streak Areas
When cleaning your windows, it’s important to focus on high-streak areas like the corners and edges of the glass as these spots are likely to collect more dirt and are more prone to streaking. Tap water can leave residue on windows because of its mineral content, so use distilled water for a streak-free finish instead. A mix of vinegar and warm water works well as a natural, non-toxic cleaner. Avoid using soap and paper towels as they can leave behind streaks and lint.
6. Clean Your Windows in Zig-Zag Motions
Start by spraying your windows with cleaning solution from top to bottom and, instead of wiping in straight lines or circularly, use a zig-zag motion to avoid streaks and get even coverage. This method helps distribute the solution more evenly across the window surface, gives you better control over your cleaning, removes excess solution, and ensures that you’re actually removing the dirt and not just pushing it around. Remember to wash windows in a fluid motion, without taking your equipment off the glass, and to remove any solution that collects on the ledge and the sill.
7. Use Specialized Tools for Different Tasks
Using specialized tools for different tasks is vital to getting a more complete clean on your windows. Larger tools like squeegees are great for the main surface, but they can’t effectively clean tight spots like edges, corners, and window tracks. That’s where smaller tools come in handy.
Small brushes are perfect for loosening dirt in tracks and corners, while sponges can help scrub away stubborn grime in hard-to-reach areas. Microfiber cloths are excellent for final touches, wiping down edges, and ensuring a streak-free finish.
8. Take Your Time
When it comes to cleaning windows, it may be tempting to rush through the process, but that’s when you’re most likely to miss stains and spots. Slowing down and focusing on the small details — like those pesky smudges in the corners or streaks you might overlook — can make a big difference in the overall cleanliness of your windows. Carefully working your way across the glass ensures you catch every bit of dirt and get spotless windows with a streak-free view.
9. Maintain a Regular Window-Cleaning Schedule
While you should vacuum your home at least once a week – depending on your floor surface and whether you have pets – you don’t need to clean your windows as frequently. However, consistent cleaning helps prevent dirt, grime, and streaks from building up on windows, which makes subsequent cleaning sessions quicker and easier.
How often you should clean your windows depends on your environment. If you live in a rainy or dusty area, or if your windows face a main road or a construction site, you’ll likely need to clean them more frequently — every few weeks or so. In less exposed or polluted areas, you might get away with cleaning every couple of months.
10. Clean Your Equipment After Use
After you’ve finished cleaning your windows, it’s crucial to attend to your window-cleaning equipment too. Keeping your tools clean not only extends their lifespan, but also ensures they stay effective for the next use. Dirty squeegees or microfiber cloths can leave streaks or even scratch your windows if grime builds up on them. If you notice any old or broken tools, replace them because worn-out equipment can also leave scratches on window surfaces. If you have a robotic window cleaner, remember to wash the cleaning pad and wipe the fan and anti-drop sensors. These parts can collect dust and debris, which can affect the robot’s performance and possibly damage your windows.
FAQ
How frequently should I clean my windows?
How often you clean your windows depends on your environment. Generally, every few months is fine, but if you live in a rainy or dusty area, or near a busy road or construction site, you should clean them every few weeks to prevent build-up and keep them looking clear.
Can I use vinegar to clean my windows?
Yes, you can use vinegar to clean windows. Do this by mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then wiping your windows with a microfiber cloth or squeegee. This is an effective way to cut through grime and removing streaks, making vinegar a natural, non-toxic alternative to chemical cleaners.
What is the best time of day to clean windows?
The best time to clean windows is on a cloudy day or in the early morning or late afternoon. This way you can avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leaving streaks. Cooler, overcast conditions help ensure a streak-free finish by allowing more even cleaning.
Are robotic window cleaners worth the investment?
Robotic window cleaners can be worth the investment if you have large or hard-to-reach windows. They offer a hands-free, efficient cleaning experience, especially for homes with high or exterior windows. While they can be pricey, the convenience and thoroughness they provide can make them a smart choice for maintaining spotless windows.
How to clean windows without streaks?
To clean windows without leaving streaks, use a mix of distilled water and white vinegar or a commercial cleaner. Wipe the glass with a microfiber cloth or squeegee in a zig-zag motion. Clean on a cloudy day to prevent quick drying, and avoid paper towels, which can leave lint and streaks behind.
What should I use to clean windows?
When it comes to cleaning windows, you’ve got plenty of options. The basics include squeegees, microfiber cloths, and a good cleaning solution. If you’re looking for something a little more high-tech, robotic window cleaners are worth considering. These gadgets offer a hands-free cleaning experience, and tackle both the inside and outside of your windows. They also come with safety cords to keep them secure, and therefore make cleaning hard-to-reach spots easier.
