How to Wash Your Windows Like a Pro

Cleaning windows can be a frustrating task, especially when streaks and smudges just won’t go away. But luckily, getting it right requires only a couple inexpensive tools and the right technique.

You might be surprised to hear that us pros don't use special chemicals or complex tools to get your windows crystal clear. Generally were just scrubbing with dish soap/water, then squeegeeing that off of the glass. 

What You’ll Need:

• A high-quality squeegee (10–14 inches is ideal for most home windows)

• A bucket filled with warm water

• Dish soap

• A microfiber scrubber (called a "T bar"), or mitt

• Lint-free glass cloths

• A dry towel for wiping the squeegee blade

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Squeegee

1. Prepare Your Scrubber

Dip it into a bucket filled with warm water, then wring out the excess by grabbing it firmly at the top and sliding your hand down to the bottom. After you have the right amount of water (more for outdoors, and less for indoors), apply a small line of dish soap directly to the scrubber.

2. Scrub the Window

Thoroughly scrub the window, going both up/down and left/right. Don't neglect the edges! This should lather up the dish soap.

3. Squeegee Technique

• Prep the top edge of the window: Using a glass cloth or the corner of the squeegee, dry a thin strip (about 1" wide) along the frame at the very top edge of the window. This prevents water from dripping down later.  

• Start at the Top: Position your squeegee at the top lefthand corner of the window. Hold it at about 45 degrees to the glass, apply even pressure, and pull down to the bottom in one smooth stroke.

• Wipe the Blade: After each stroke, wipe any water off of the squeegee blade with a dry towel to prevent streaking.

• Overlap Each Stroke: Continue making top to bottom pulls with the squeegee, slightly overlapping each stroke to ensure full coverage. 

• Push the dirty water away: The squeegee should be held at an angle for every stroke after the first. Tilt the blade so that the side overlapping the clean glass is lower. This will push the dirty water away from the clean glass, preventing streaking.  

4. Clean the Edges and Touch Up

Use a lint-free glass cloth or chamois to wipe any remaining water along the edges of the window and touch up issues. THIS CLOTH HAS TO BE 100% DRY! Use a different part of the cloth for each edge or spot. 

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Clean windows on a cloudy day or when the glass is cool to avoid quick drying and streaking. If you need to work on a hot day, spraying the windows with a hose to cool them immediately before cleaning them helps.

• Use a high-quality rubber blade in your squeegee and replace it regularly for the best performance.

• Once you’re used to straight, vertical pulls, you can learn “fanning” technique, which is not described here as it is more difficult.

• Use only purpose made glass cloths. Avoid paper towels or newspapers, as they can leave behind lint and streaks.

• Never launder your glass cloths with any other fabric. Put them through the wash with a cup of vinegar and nothing else. Washing them with clothing even once will cover them in lint, effectively ruining them.

• Be very careful when working at heights! Ladders are the number one cause of workplace injuries. Reading this page is not a substitute for proper instruction in ladder use and working at heights.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have sparkling clean windows that let in more natural light and improve the overall look of your home or business. Happy cleaning!

If you decide that you’d rather have someone save you the tedious task of window cleaning, then request a quote from us, or give us a call at (647) 212-6460.