- Gather your supplies: You’ll need a bucket, a squeegee, a sponge or cleaning cloth, and a cleaning solution. You can use a commercial window cleaning solution or make your own by mixing water and white vinegar.
- Start by removing any cobwebs or debris from the window frame and sill using a duster or a dry cloth. This will prevent them from getting smeared on the glass during cleaning.
- Fill the bucket with your cleaning solution and dip the sponge or cleaning cloth into it. Wipe down the window, starting at the top and working your way down. Be sure to clean the entire window, including the frame, sill, and corners.
- Use the squeegee to remove the cleaning solution and dirt from the window. Start at the top of the window and work your way down, wiping the blade of the squeegee clean after each pass.
- Dry the window frame and sill with a clean, dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture.
- Repeat the process on the other side of the window if it’s double-paned.
Tips:
- Clean your windows on a cloudy day or in the early morning or evening to avoid direct sunlight, which can dry the cleaning solution too quickly and leave streaks.
- Use a ladder or step stool to reach high windows, and be sure to use it safely.
- If you find hard water stains on your windows, you can use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water, and a small amount of cornstarch to make a paste, apply it on the stains, let it sit for a few minutes then wipe it off with a sponge or cloth.
- Clean your window screens separately with a mild detergent and a soft brush. Rinse them with a hose and let them dry completely before replacing them.
- Consider using a window cleaning tool with a long handle and a microfiber pad to make it easier to reach high and hard-to-reach areas.
Note: Make sure to test any cleaning solutions on a small inconspicuous area of the window before using it. Be cautious when working with windows that are located on high floors or if you have pets or children around to avoid accidents.