Having clean windows, whether in a home or business, undoubtedly improves the aesthetics inside and out. Peering out of a sparkling clean window is simply satisfying, but actually accomplishing it can be somewhat difficult without the proper tools and techniques.
If watching a professional clean windows has left you in awe, as they effortlessly put squeegee to window and produce smudge-free, streak-free glass, you should follow these tips to easily produce the same results.
#1 Having the Necessary Equipment
Whether you’re an avid DIYer or just starting out, you have to realize that the key to producing outstanding results for any project is having the right tools. Unlike many do-it-yourself projects, most window cleaning tools can be found at your local hardware store or purchased online.
Basic cleaning tools include:
- Quality Squeegee – There are a variety of squeegees available on the market, but it’s best not to scrimp on this particular tool. A professional window cleaner relies on a squeegee that’s designed with a flexible, replaceable rubber blade and strong graspable handle that holds up when pressure is applied. The squeegee will whisk away excess water and clean without streaking.
- Bucket – You’ll need a bucket for mixing a cleaning solution. Ideally a 5-gallon size works great and eliminates the need for constant refills.
- Cleaning Solution – Most window cleaning pros mix their own cleaning solution made of dish detergent and warm distilled water. Commercial window cleaners aren’t necessary and actually contain chemicals that may damage window fascia. As long as it’s capable of breaking down grease and grime, it should work. Also, opting for distilled water will prevent spotting usually caused by hard water minerals.
- Sponge - will allow you to scrub away any build-up on the windows. For thick build-up like algae or mold, having a scraper on hand is helpful too.
- Lint-free Cloth – Having a lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber as well as buff out streaks to give that polished look. Opting for microfiber cloths rather than recycled rags or paper towels prevent lint or residue from laundry detergent, plus with proper care, quality microfiber cloths are long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and cost-efficient.
#2 Scrubbing Away Dirt
Neglected or overly dirty windows usually require some elbow grease in order to produce that ultimate shine. Interior glass seems to be a perfect magnet for air-borne oils or dust and exterior glass is prone to dirt from leaves and limbs or bird droppings. By using a scraper to remove excess buildup, followed by washing windows with a sponge and cleaning solution, you’ll be well on your way to having smudge-free windows.
#3 Make a Clean Starting Strip
Once the dirt is loosened up, it’s time to put the squeegee to use. Starting a top corner, angle the squeegee so only the pointed tip of the rubber blade is in contact with the glass. Clean a single vertical strip, followed by horizontal strokes afterwards.
#4 Keep the Squeegee Blade Clean
It’s important to keep the squeegee blade clean of excess water in between strokes, as needed. Keeping a microfiber cloth in your front pocket will do the job perfectly. Another option is a clean towel, but lint-free is always ideal.
Many people are hesitant to use a squeegee and watery cleaning solution indoors, but all you need to do is put a tarp in place and clean away excess water frequently during the cleaning process.
#5 Polish Windows to a Shine
A final buff with a lint-free cloth will give you that polished look and you can call the job done. If you’re cleaning windows above ground level, be sure to have a safe, sturdy ladder.
As you can see, producing clean streak-free windows isn’t difficult once you learn the techniques used by professionals. Follow these tactics and you can get professional-looking windows in no time!
