The Best Way To Clean Outside Windows

November 15, 2023

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A woman is holding a bottle of cleaner while cleaning windows.

When the sky is clear and the sun is shining and you’re not getting all that natural light into your home, that’s a sign that your window glass is in need of a clean. The film, water spots, dust and dirt are ruing your picture windows from being picture perfect! Washing the glass may just be another thing on your list of chores that you don’t get to, but window washing with the right method and cleaner can accomplish a professional cleaning job yourself.

To enjoy the summer days and your views, washing windows should be at the top of your spring cleaning list. There no point in cleaning inside windows if you don’t clean the outside too. Ideally, windows should be washed twice a year, but it’s something that most people don’t look forward to.
Fortunately, the process for the best results when it comes to cleaning windows is easy. There are many types of professional window cleaning products out there that promise a “streak-free shine.” But there is a homemade product that is a simpler and better alternative.

When To Clean Windows

The best time to clean windows is a dry, cloudy day. If you were to do this home improvement job in the blazing sunlight, the cleaner can dry onto the windows before your get to wipe it off. This can leave streaks that are hard to remove. If the weather isn’t working with you, start on the shady side of your house.

Homemade Window Cleaner

A simple and homemade window cleaning solution is one part vinegar, one part rubbing alcohol, and two parts water. Make sure to label the bottle with the ingredients for later use. Combine the following ingredients and amount in a spray bottle:

The best way to clean windows without streaks is to use this window cleaning alternative, a squeegee with a rubber blade and a microfibre cloth. Some people like drying glass surfaces with newspaper, but it’s better to use microfiber cloths as they are super absorbent, washable and leave them streak-free. If you rather use paper towels, use a brand that is strong enough for the job. Weak paper towels can shed and leave lint behind. You can get squeegees and other tools at local hardware stores.

Cleaning Windows From The Outside

Here are some steps and tips to clean your windows like the pros.

Pre-Washing

Exterior windows have more dirt and strains than inside windows. Start by rinsing the windows with a hose. Then fill a bucket with clean, cool water and add some liquid dish soap. Use a microfiber cloth to go over the surface of the window. For higher windows, use a sponge mop or microfiber mop. You don’t have to be very particular with this stage of washing as it is not the last. Rinse thoroughly with a hose.

Washing

Next, spray or mop with the vinegar solution or with a commercial cleanser like Windex or even windshield washing solution if that is what you prefer. Don’t neglect window screens during your washing job. Rinse them with water then spray them with the vinegar solution and rinse again. Let them dry before returning them to the window.

Stubborn Dirt Solutions

For stubborn dirt and stains, like mineral deposits, saturate with the vinegar solution and let it sit for several minutes. Use some elbow grease and scrub with a soft sponge. Don’t use steel wool or other harsh scrubbing cloths as these will scratch a window.

Drying

Wipe the glass dry using a clean squeegee. Make sure your squeegee blade is made of rubber before using it. Angle the edge of the squeegee towards the bottom of the window and work from top to bottom going horizontally. Wipe the squeegee with a clean, dry towel after each pass. Use a lint-free towel or newspaper to dry the edges of the windows.