How to clean windows

Making sure your windows are spotless can up your kerb appeal. Here are a few of our top tips to make your windows sparkle.

Cleaning windows can be an arduous task and it can be tricky to nail the right technique. However, once you have the correct tools and are armed with our top tips, your windows will be clean and streak-free.

We’ve put together a handy guide to make sure you feel confident tackling your windows.

Tools required for the job:

• Bucket

• Water

• Window cleaning solution

• Sponge

• Squeegee

• Microfibre cloth

• Old toothbrush

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

How to clean windows properly

Step 1: Choose your day wisely

You might think a sunny day is the perfect time to clean your windows, however it can make your windows dry too quickly. Similarly, check the weather to make sure it’s not going to rain, as this would ruin all of your hard work!

Step 2: Remove window dressings

To make the process a bit easier, remove any blinds or curtains first to avoid them getting wet or in the way.

Step 3: Mix your solution

Fill your bucket with warm water and mix well with your cleaning solution. We suggest wearing gloves to protect your hands.

Step 4: Apply carefully

Use a sponge to apply your window cleaning solution in a circular motion. Apply pressure to get rid of stubborn marks.

Step 5: Let your windows dry

Working from the top down, use a squeegee to get rid of any excess water. Proceed to wipe down each pane of glass vertically (or the same way) with a microfibre cloth to make sure your windows are totally dry.

The best way to clean windows

Arguably there is no best way to clean windows however there are definitely a few tips that will ensure they are sparkling clean.

A good trick is to make your own homemade window cleaning solution. Mix two parts water with one part white vinegar and pop it into a spray bottle. It’s brilliant at removing any stubborn water marks.

Top tip: Make sure your windows are not in complete sunlight when you embark on cleaning them, as this can cause the water/solution to dry and cause marks.

How to clean windows outside?

Typically, outside windows have more stains and water marks on them so can be harder to clean. Start by hosing them down with a hose first then continue to mix and apply your cleaning solution.

If you can’t reach the higher part of the window, we recommend using a mop or a sponge on a pole to tackle the hard-to-reach areas.

How to clean windows without streaks

Some experts recommend taking a microfibre cloth and wiping in a Z-shaped motion to ensure streak-free windows.

Using old newspapers is another top tip for eliminating streaks. Once fully cleaned, dry your windows with crumpled old newspaper, step back and admire your handy work.

How to clean window tracks

• Window tracks can be guilty of harbouring dirt and grime. First things first, remove loose dirt and debris by either brushing it off or using a hoover to vacuum it up

• Sprinkle some baking soda over your tracks - you’ll only need the equivalent of a couple of teaspoons. Then pour over a small amount of vinegar on top to make the perfect fizzing cleaning solution

• Grab an old toothbrush and start scrubbing! It’s ideal for getting into those pesky nooks and crannies

• Give them a final wash with a bucket of soapy water and a sponge

• Dry your tracks with a microfibre cloth and voila!

The straightforward way to get your windows cleaned

The simplest ways to get your windows sparkling is by hiring a professional window cleaner to do the job. They have all the equipment and products to get you the best results. Make sure to check out how much it costs to get a professional window cleaner - it might not be as much as you think!

Find an approved window cleaner on Checkatrade

If you cannot complete this job yourself, don’t worry, you’re in the right place.

• With 47,000 approved tradespeople in our trusted directory, Checkatrade is the place to find the help you need

• The Checkatrade badge is a sign of a job well done*

• Every tradesperson has passed up to 12 checks to be in our directory, so you know you’re getting the real deal

• With the Checkatrade guarantee, we’ll help make things right if your job doesn’t go to plan

• With an average review score of 9.77 out of 10, Checkatrade tradespeople are known for high-quality.

*Claims are sourced from a survey conducted by Deep Blue Thinking on a nationally representative UK sample in November 2021.