How To Clean Windows
Few things in this world are more annoying than dirty windows. Smudges from fingers, fog from dog noses, while bugs and roof runoff leave unsightly streaks. Are you sick and tired of staring through all that grime? But washing your window panes through conventional methods seems to worsen the problem. So why even bother?
You’ll be happy to know it’s not impossible to keep your windows clean. In fact, with the right tips, tools and seasoned advice, it might not be as complicated as you think. Choosing the right tools is an essential part of this, as getting professional help if and when you need it.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about how to clean glass windows, including seven pieces of practical advice to achieve a streak-free shine.
The absolute best way to clean windows
It’s time to take the pain out of cleaning window panes.
Here’s how to clean windows around any property without leaving a single streak!
- Buy the right tools
You already have some basic tools for window washing at home. However, if you’re serious about a streak-free shine, you might want to invest in some upgrades:
- A bottle of window spray — Buy some over the counter or make your own with vinegar and water
- Window wands — For reaching high-up windows without a ladder
- A handheld vacuum — Great for picking up dirt, dust and debris (like dead bugs)
- A window blade — A safe way to scrape paint or resin off your windows
- A bucket and sponge — Perfect for those who prefer the soap-and-water finish
- A rubber-bladed squeegee — Much better than your average window cloth
- The old-fashioned newspaper trick
Using a cloth to clean windows is a common cleaning faux paux — and a great way to streak up your glass. The fibres will trail extra dust and dirt and won’t lift the smudges off your window’s surface.
Newspaper is a great alternative for window cleaning in a pinch. Just spray down the window, fold your newspaper and go to town! You’re welcome in advance.
- Stick to a system
It’ll be easier to clean your windows during the cooler parts of the year. May and October are the best months to get started, especially on cloudy days (more on that later).
While it might not make sense for your limited time, don’t be tempted to wash all your windows at once. Instead, go room by room and give undivided attention to one window at a time.
Want to go the extra mile? Only clean the inside or outside of your windows in a single session. You’ll immediately spot extra smudges once they dry — and you’ll know just which side you’ll need to clean.
- Don’t clean on sunny days
We’re all more motivated to clean when the sun is out. But don’t be fooled — the heat will vaporise your window cleaner and leave marks all over your panes!
Wait for a cooler or cloudier day to get started with window cleaning. Otherwise, start in the morning or late afternoon when there’s less heat to fry your hard work.
- Start with a pre-clean
You might be tempted to spray and wipe our windows right from the get-go. However, doing so will create a mess and potentially scratch your window glass.
Before you wash your windows, use a Shop Vac or heavy cloth to wipe away the grime. You’ll have a chance to remove extra detritus from the glass before attempting a crystal-clear shine.
- Spray down the entire window
Many of us are conditioned to use just a small amount of window cleaner at a time. Not only will this lead to more streaking and striping, but it won’t remove all the smudges from your glass!
Feel free to liberally spray down your windows while completing your once-yearly cleaning, carefully disperse your spray on every window quadrant evenly. If you’re using a non-sprayable option like window pads or wipes, use one or two cloth wipes per window to break up any smudges.
- Don’t forget the screens
When cleaning windows around your homes and businesses, it’s the glass — not the screen — that receives the most attention. However, if you’re serious about the perfect finish, you’ll have to change your approach!
If you can, pop out the window screen each time you wash a window. Wipe down all the cracks and crevices, then vacuum, dust and spray the screen with water. Leave them in the sun to dry, then pop them back into the frames.
It’s that easy!
How to wash windows hands-free with Jim’s Cleaning
It’s not that hard to wash household windows, especially if you have all the right tools. That being said, the process is anything but quick — and it will not get done on its own.
If you’re after the streak-free window look but a little short on time, the team at Jim’s Cleaning would be happy to help with quality window washing services. We have 20+ years of experience assisting Australians to clean their windows and with thousands of five-star reviews and wildly happy customers, you can see what sets us apart:
- A police-vetted workforce with demonstrable experience. We only hire folks we can trust!
- The 100% Jim’s Cleaning Guarantee. If you’re not over the moon about your newly washed windows, we’ll come back ASAP to exceed your expectations.
- We bring all the equipment you’ll ever need. From ladders and squeegees to buckets and poles, you make the first call — our team will handle the rest!
Want your streak-free windows to be a hands-off job? Join thousands of customers by choosing Jim’s Cleaning for all your window washing needs. You can give us a call at 131 546 to get an estimate or book a service today. Go ahead — it’s free!
