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How to Clean Your Windows Inside and Outside: A Step-by-Step Guide for Sparkling Clean Glass
Windows are an essential part of your home, allowing natural light to pour in and providing you with beautiful views of the outdoors. However, over time, dirt, smudges, and grime can accumulate on both the inside and outside, leaving your windows looking less than pristine. Cleaning your windows might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, techniques, and a bit of elbow grease, you can achieve streak-free, sparkling glass both inside and out!
Here’s your go-to guide for cleaning windows inside and outside like a pro.
What You’ll Need:
- Bucket or large container
- Warm water
- Dish soap or a window cleaning solution
- White vinegar (optional, for tougher stains)
- Microfiber cloths or lint-free towels
- Squeegee
- Extension pole (for outdoor cleaning, if needed)
- Rubber gloves (optional, but helpful for protecting your hands)
- Sponges or soft scrub brushes
- Old newspaper or paper towels (optional, for polishing)
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
To get started, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. For the cleaning solution, you can either buy a commercial window cleaner or make your own. A simple DIY solution involves mixing warm water with a small amount of dish soap or a cup of vinegar, which is great for cutting through grease and grime.
Step 2: Clean the Inside of Your Windows
1. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Mix warm water and a small amount of dish soap in a bucket or container. If you prefer an all-natural solution, you can mix equal parts of white vinegar and water instead. The vinegar solution works wonders on fingerprints, stains, and streaks.
2. Dust and Wipe the Window Frames
Before you clean the glass itself, take a microfiber cloth or duster to wipe down the window frame and sill. Dust and debris on these areas can make the glass appear dirtier once you start cleaning.
3. Wash the Glass
Dampen a sponge or soft cloth in your cleaning solution and gently scrub the glass. Be sure to clean the entire surface, starting from the top and working your way down. For windows with stubborn dirt or grease spots, use a soft-bristled brush or a non-abrasive sponge to tackle the spots.
4. Use a Squeegee for a Streak-Free Finish
Once the window is clean, it’s time to use the squeegee. Hold the squeegee at a slight angle and start at the top left corner of the window. Pull the squeegee across the glass in a reverse “S” pattern, wiping the blade with a clean cloth after each pass. This technique will help prevent streaks and water spots from forming.
5. Dry the Window
Once the window has been squeegeed, use a microfiber cloth or paper towel to wipe around the edges of the glass and frame, ensuring it’s completely dry.
Step 3: Clean the Outside of Your Windows
Cleaning the outside of your windows can be trickier, especially if they are located high up. For outdoor cleaning, follow these additional steps:
1. Prepare the Area
If you have plants near the windows, move them out of the way, or cover them with a tarp or cloth to protect them from any drips. Lay down towels on the ground to catch any water runoff.
2. Use a Long-Handled Tool for High Windows
For windows that are out of reach, use an extension pole with a squeegee or cleaning cloth attachment. Many home improvement stores sell squeegee poles specifically designed for cleaning windows.
3. Clean the Glass
Start by spraying the window with your cleaning solution or a store-bought window cleaner. If you’re using the vinegar and water mixture, it works just as well on the outside of windows. Use a soft cloth, sponge, or scrub brush to clean away dirt, bird droppings, or grime.
4. Rinse and Squeegee the Glass
Once the window has been thoroughly scrubbed, rinse it off with clean water. Then, follow the same squeegee technique you used for the inside of the window. Begin at the top left and pull the squeegee in a smooth, downward motion to remove excess water and leave the glass streak-free.
