The Right Way to Clean Windows for a Streak-Free Finish

Clean, streak-free windows give the interior and exterior of your home a more polished look. Plus, removing dust, dirt, and pollen from your windows will allow more light to filter into your home. But cleaning your windows incorrectly or with the wrong materials can make them look even dingier than simply letting them build up with debris. To simplify this chore, we're walking you through the right way to clean the interior and exterior of your windows to ensure they stay sparkling.

How Often to Clean Windows

How often you clean your windows will depend on a few factors, such as the environment, weather conditions, and personal preference. "Many people prefer to clean the exterior of windows at least twice a year, usually in the spring and fall," says Alicia Sokolowski, the president and co-CEO of AspenClean. "This helps remove accumulated dirt and grime from different weather conditions." In areas with extreme weather or high pollution, cleaning your windows as often as monthly may be necessary to keep them free of pollutants and debris. The interior of your windows should generally be cleaned biweekly to keep them sparkling.

Materials Needed

Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning your windows.

• White vinegar
• Water
• Dish soap (optional)
• Microfiber cloth(s)
• Squeegee
• Vacuum with brush attachment
• Toothbrush

How to Clean Windows

Clean your windows when it's cool, such as in the morning or on a cloudy day, says Craig Thomas, virtual handyperson expert for Frontdoor. Avoid doing this chore on a day with bright sun, as the heat can cause the cleaning fluid to dry, which will result in streaks or water spots.

Cleaning the Interior

Clean the interior of your windows with equal parts white vinegar and water, says Sokolowski.

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket (you can also make it in a spray bottle). Optional: add a few drops of dish soap to help cut through grease and grime.
2. Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust or dirt from the window surfaces. 
3. Dip a clean microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and wipe the entire window surface with the damp cloth, moving in an S pattern from left to right.
4. Using a squeegee, start at the top of the window and pull it down in a straight motion. Repeat until you've covered the entire window.
5. Use a dry cloth and wipe the edges and corners of the window to remove any remaining moisture.
6. Using a vacuum with a brush attachment, remove any dirt from the windowsill.
7. Dip a microfiber cloth in the vinegar-water solution and wipe the windowsill.
8. Use a toothbrush to scrub any tough stains.
9. Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
10. Take a step back and inspect the window for any streaks or spots. If you notice any, you can buff them out with a clean, dry cloth.

Cleaning the Exterior

If your windows are located on an upper floor, make sure that you have a stable and safe ladder, or consider using an extension pole for hard-to-reach areas, says Sokolowski.

1. Use a soft brush or a sponge and remove dirt or cobwebs from the window surfaces. 
2. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket. Add a few drops of dish soap to help cut through grease and grime.
3. Use a hose with a sprayer attachment to wet the window thoroughly. 
4. Dip the cloth or your sponge in the vinegar and water solution and scrub the window surface, paying close attention to any stubborn areas with built-up grime.
5. Using a squeegee with an extension pole, start at an upper corner of the pane and draw the squeegee down in a straight stroke. After each stroke, wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with a sponge or lint-free cloth. Return to the top and repeat, slightly overlapping the first stroke.
6. Use a dry cloth and wipe the edges and corners of the window.
7. Take a step back and inspect the window for any streaks or spots. If you notice any, you can buff them out with a clean, dry cloth.

Cleaning the Window Tracks

Don't neglect the window tracks when deep cleaning your windows.

1. Using a vacuum with the brush attachment, remove dirt, dust, and debris from the window tracks.
2. In a small bowl, mix white vinegar and water.
3. Apply the mixture to the tracks using an old toothbrush. Let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
4. Scrub the tracks with the toothbrush.
5. Dampen a microfiber cloth with clean water and wipe away the cleaning solution.
6. Dry the tracks with a clean microfiber cloth.
   

How to Maintain Windows

Keep your windows free of dust, dirt, pollen, and other debris by keeping up with maintenance in between cleans.

• Ensure that landscaping is trimmed away from windows to reduce dirt and pollen accumulation.
• Change HVAC filters regularly to minimize indoor dust.
• Clean curtains and drapes and vacuum around windows regularly.
• Dust windowsills and frames between deep cleanings.
• Keep your windows closed when you can to reduce pollen buildup.
• Avoid wiping the glass with materials that leave lint behind, like paper towels.