Window washing may not be glamorous, but at least it isn’t hard. You can achieve the streak-free, sparkling look of professionally cleaned windows without a lot of fuss. The only things you’ll need are a small block of time and a handful of basic tools: cleaning solution, a sponge, a squeegee, and a towel.
First, you must decide what sort of cleaning solution you will use. You might be surprised to learn that the best solutions are homemade. Obviously, many people opt for sprays like Windex. While there is no denying the convenience of store-bought cleansers, they are not high performers in terms of actual cleaning. If you must use one of these products, be sure to use it with a lint-free cloth. Paper towels will cause streaks.
If you can spare a few minutes to mix your own solution, you will achieve much better results. The best formula is vinegar (there are many different types, so be sure to use white vinegar) and slightly warm water. About 1/4 cup of vinegar per quart of water should do the job; exact measurements are not necessary, so feel free to eyeball the amounts.
If you don’t have any white vinegar around the house, ammonia and water will make a perfectly serviceable window washing solution. Use about a capful per quart of water. In a real pinch you can also use dishwashing liquid. Use it sparingly, adding only a few drops per quart of water. (This last method isn’t highly recommended, as your windows will streak if you add too much dishwashing liquid.)
The other three window washing tools involve less choice. Any kind of sponge will do. (Some people actually prefer to use newspapers because they are economically and environmentally sound, but they can get a bit messy if you are not wearing heavy gloves.) Squeegees can be purchased at any hardware store or shop that has a decent selection of cleaning supplies. As for the towel, paper or cloth will be fine; it will only be used to soak up the water that falls to the sill, so don’t worry about lint.
The actual task of window washing is straightforward, but it may require a little bit of elbow grease. Begin by using your soaking your sponge in the cleaning solution. Ideally, the sponge should be wet, but not sopping wet. Next, vigorously scrub the window with the sponge. Re-wet the sponge as necessary. You’ll be able to tell when it’s clean; the window will feel completely smooth under the sponge. Finally, pull the squeegee straight down, wiping it with a towel in between swipes. Finish by soaking up any water that has fallen to the sill with your towel.
A few final pointers: never wash windows in direct sunlight, since it causes heavy streaking. Cloudy days or nighttime are usually best. Also, you might want to buy an extension for your squeegee if you have tall windows. (A stepstool is another option.) Finally, if you’re washing the exterior windows of your house, stick to the ground level. High windows are best left to professional cleaners.
