How to clean windows without streaks: timing, tools, and steps

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Window washing is the chore many keep postponing, convinced it will eat up a whole afternoon. But a few clear rules change the pace and the finish. The trick is not to rush and to pick the right moment.

When it’s best to get started

Choose an overcast day or early morning. Direct sun dries cleaner too fast and leaves visible streaks, while soft light makes it easier to spot the patches that still need attention.

Preparation matters more than it seems

Before reaching for the spray bottle, deal with sills and frames. Take down curtains, move plants and small décor out of the way. Wipe cornices, handles, and corners—dust loves to settle there. Only then is it worth tackling the glass: this way, dirt won’t bounce back onto a clean surface.

Don’t forget the screens and blinds

Insect screens and blinds collect dust faster than you think. Skip them, and particles land on freshly cleaned panes almost instantly. Screens are best rinsed with warm soapy water at least once a season. Blinds benefit from routine care—a damp cloth or a dedicated brush is enough.

What to have on hand

The basic kit is simple:

• a microfiber cloth or a soft sponge;
• a bucket with soapy solution;
• a bucket with clean warm water;
• dry cloths or newspaper;
• an old toothbrush for corners;
• a step ladder for high windows.

For convenience, a rubber squeegee or a telescopic brush helps. Magnetic brushes, robot cleaners, and other gadgets speed things up, but they take practice and come at a higher price.

Tried-and-true steps for clear glass

• Clean the frames and sills.
• Work the corners with a toothbrush or cotton swab.
• Mix your cleaner in warm water.
• Apply the solution from top to bottom, spreading it evenly.
• Use a squeegee to remove excess water with smooth strokes.
• Polish with a dry cloth or newspaper.
• Finish by wiping the frames again.

How to dodge streaks

Simple tips that deliver:

• use a clean cloth and rinse it often;
• avoid bright sun;
• pick microfiber or a squeegee;
• move from top to bottom and don’t go back over areas that have already dried.

Cleaning the outside: when to call in help

Exterior panes are trickier. If the window sits too high, it’s safer to leave the job to professionals. Otherwise, a telescopic brush and the same solutions you use inside will do.

Homemade mixes that stand in for store-bought

Vinegar solution

Vinegar + water (1:1). It lifts grime well and doesn’t leave marks.

Lemon solution

Lemon juice + water. It cleans and leaves a fresh scent.

Alcohol-based mix

• Alcohol + water + a teaspoon of vinegar. Ideal in winter—it doesn’t freeze.
• Baking soda + vinegar

The fizzing reaction helps with stubborn buildup.

Glycerin blend

• 1 tablespoon glycerin
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar

Combine everything in a spray bottle. Glycerin leaves a protective film that keeps dust and dirt from settling. Mist the glass and wipe with a microfiber cloth—this mix helps windows stay clean for longer.