Tips on Cleaning Windows: Inside and Out – You may think your window cleaning skills are just fine. After all, you can still see out of those windows, right? Well, technically. But you could be doing a much more effective and productive job if you take the steps to do it right. Plus, most of us just clean from the inside but we’re missing half the job. In order to be truly clean, you have to clean your windows inside AND out. Don’t worry: we have you covered with these tips.

Interior Window Cleaning

  • Grab a bucket and fill it with cool water and a couple of drops of liquid dish soap. You don’t need anything fancy.
  • Put down a towel underneath the window to absorb spills.
  • Using a microfiber cloth, start at the top and work your way to the bottom.
  • Wipe down the frame, inside and out.
  • Mix some vinegar and water in a bottle and spray the window. Alternatively, you can mix a capful of ammonia with two gallons of water. This will add another layer of cleaning power to your windows.
  • Dry the windows with a lint-free towel using a Z-shaped motion. Avoid using paper towels because they can leave dust and fibers behind.
  • Do this task on a cool, cloudy day so the sun’s rays don’t dry streaks onto your windows.

Exterior Window Cleaning

  • Wet the windows with a garden hose.
  • Fill a bucket with cool water and liquid dish soap.
  • Use a microfiber cloth to clean the windows or a sponge mop on a pole to reach higher ones.
  • Rinse with hose.
  • Spray on the vinegar/water mix.
  • Dry with a clean, rubber-blade squeegee, working from top to bottom. Wipe off the squeegee with a dry towel after every pass. If you don’t have a squeegee, you can use a lint-free towel.
  • To remove bird droppings and other stubborn stains, spray with vinegar solution, let sit and then rub off with a sponge. Never use steel wool because it will scratch the glass.
  • For screens, rinse with water, spray with vinegar solution and rinse again with water. Air dry before replacing.
  • If your windows have mineral deposits from hard water, use commercial cleaners like CLR to get off the calcium, lime and rust.

Devoting a day to cleaning your windows is well worth it in the end. Or, you can do the interiors one day and exterior the next. Whatever method works for you, keep up with regular thorough cleanings – at least twice a year. Do spot cleaning as needed.

If you simply don’t have time to wash your own windows, don’t hesitate to call Clearview Washing at 732-462-1187 to book an appointment this fall.