For a quick and easy cleaning solution try using distilled vinegar. It’s safe for the environment and non-toxic to you and your pets.

Start at one corner of the window and clean a narrow strip, then move on to the next section. Then dry the window with a clean, lint-free cloth.

1. Squeegee

There’s a good reason that professionals use squeegees when cleaning windows. This flat rubber tool gets the job done more quickly than paper towels or rags and doesn’t leave streaks behind. But it requires some finesse to get the best results. The trick is to apply water at the correct angle and not let it drip down onto the frames below. It also helps to move slowly and not try to push the water into corners, which can cause smears.

Some squeegees are adjustable, so you can choose the handle length that fits your reach. Those with extendable handles can help you reach high windows without the need for a ladder, making them ideal for those with mobility limitations or limited height. They’re also made from tough and durable materials that can withstand regular use over time.

Microfiber cloths are another essential tool for achieving streak-free windows. They’re extremely absorbent, soaking up the cleaner and pulling it away from the window surface. This allows you to use less cleaning solution and cut down on waste. They’re also designed to grab and hold dirt instead of pushing it around, minimizing the amount of dust, bacteria and germs that end up on the window.

You can buy microfiber cloths from any cleaning supply store or even at some supermarkets. But make sure you get a high-quality one that’s absorbent enough to hold eight times its weight in water and is machine washable to keep it looking fresh. It’s also a good idea to purchase a bucket with a lid, so you can easily wash the squeegee blade and add more water when necessary. This will minimize the risk of mold and mildew growing on your cleaning tools.

2. Scrubber

Cleaning windows isn’t just about squeegeeing; you may need to scrub some stubborn stains. For this, you can use a scrubber or sponge mop. Simply add a small amount of detergent to your bucket of water (cooler temperatures will help prevent the glass from steaming), dip your rag or mop into it, and rub away the grime. Rinse the rag or mop after every stroke to avoid spreading dirt.

Another option is to make a paste with water and a cleaner that contains oxalic acid, such as Zud or Bar Keepers Friend, and apply it to the stained area of your window. Leave the paste to sit on the glass for a few minutes before scrubbing it again with your rag or mop. Rinse thoroughly afterward and clean as usual. You can also remove stubborn marks by using a scraper or razor blade to gently scrape away the substance.

For high windows, you can also use a rubber-bladed squeegee instead of a ladder to reach the glass. Start at the top of the window and work down, wiping the squeegee with a dry lint-free cloth between passes. You can even replace your lint-free cloth with a sheet of newspaper, which can be just as effective and much more affordable than a microfiber towel.

To prevent streaks, wet the squeegee and wipe it dry with a lint-free cloth as you go. Always work from the top down to avoid letting water trickle back onto the cleaned window and cause drips. Also, remember to keep the squeegee in contact with the window throughout, avoiding skipping, and rinse the squeegee often. Also, be sure to sanitize your tools with cleaning solution or disinfectant after each session.

3. Scrubber/Mop

Clean windows can enhance the beauty of your home and allow sunlight to illuminate your living space. Dirty windows, however, are obstructive and can make it difficult to see out the window. Regular cleaning will reduce the amount of dirt on your windows and keep them looking their best for years to come.

Cleaning exterior windows is easy if you use the right tools. Rather than risking your life by climbing up on a ladder to clean hard-to-reach windows, you can invest in a magnetic window cleaner that allows you to safely and efficiently clean the glass from inside the house. This tool attaches to your hose, and a strong jet stream of water dislodges and removes dirt from the windows. The result is sparkling clean windows that are free from streaks and smudges.

A mop and bucket are also great window cleaning tools to have on hand, especially if you live in a flat building. Instead of a squeegee, you can simply place a small sponge in the bucket and pour in your solution. Then, you can mop the windows using a clean microfiber cloth or mop head. Once you’re finished, rinse the windows with a hose to ensure that any soap residue is removed.

This method is ideal for flat buildings because it eliminates the need for a ladder and the risk of a fall. It also gives you the ability to scrub stubborn dirt, such as bird droppings, from a window’s frame without risking the integrity of the glass. Plus, this method is quicker than scrubbing and squeegeing, so it saves time. You may still need to use a squeegee to clean the edges of the windows, though.

4. Microfiber Cloth

One of the best ways to clean windows is by using a microfiber cloth. They’re ideal for both wet and dry jobs, can pick up dirt and dust just as well as liquid, and can easily leave behind a high-quality shine. They’re also highly reusable, saving money on paper towels and other disposable cleaning supplies.

Microfiber cloths are soft and won’t scratch glass, mirrors, or any other surface. They’re also extremely absorbent, soaking up seven times more soil than their weight and leaving the surface free of streaks. They can also reach into cracks and crevices other cloths might miss.

To use a microfiber cloth, lightly dampen it with water or window cleaner. Then, gently wipe the surface until it’s crystal-clear.

The split fibers in a quality microfiber cloth are so fine that they can trap dust and dirt, making them a great choice for quickly and effectively dusting shades and blinds. To get the most out of your microfiber cloth, we recommend washing it frequently. Washing it with cool or warm water is ideal, as hot temperatures can damage the microfibers and cause them to become clogged with dirt. Avoid using fabric softener and chemical-based detergents, as these can interfere with the performance of your cloth.

Once the cloth is washed, make sure to dry it on a low temperature and do not place it in the dryer (again, heat can damage the microfibers). It’s important to wash your microfiber cloths separately from other laundry so that lint doesn’t transfer to the surface of your glass or mirror. You can also machine-wash your microfiber cloths, following the care instructions on the label. For best results, use a mild detergent and cold to warm water.

5. Towel

A towel may seem like an odd choice when cleaning windows, but it can make the difference between a streak-free finish and one that is full of smudges and fingerprints. A good towel will be large and absorbent, making it easier to use when wiping the glass. It should also be free of lint, as this can leave behind a trail of marks and streaks on the window. Finally, the towel should be washed regularly to prevent it from retaining too much dirt and residue.

Paper towels are commonly used when cleaning windows and mirrors, but they can leave behind a trail of lint that can affect the finished appearance of the window. Cloth towels, such as microfiber or cotton, are a better option for this type of task, as they can be washed and reused many times over. This makes them more cost-effective in the long run, as they do not need to be replaced as frequently as paper towels.

Flour sack towels are another good option for this type of job, as they can be used for wiping and drying without leaving behind lint or residue. These towels are also reusable, making them a more environmentally friendly option than paper towels. They are also more durable than microfiber towels, which means they will stand up to repeated use and washing. When using a towel, be sure to wipe the edges of the window sill and floor carefully to avoid drips of cleaning solution or water. If possible, avoid wiping a window on a sunny day, as sunlight can create glare and can dry the cleaner on the glass too quickly, leading to streaks.