When it comes to household chores, washing windows is probably one of the least favorite chores there is. Not necessarily because it’s hard, but because most people do it the wrong way. Cleaning your windows isn’t like cleaning a mirror. There is a right and a wrong way to wash them. Here are some tips for keeping your windows sparkling clean.

Use the tools that pros use

Using a spray bottle and a roll of paper towels isn’t the way to clean your exterior windows. The combination of the spray and towels aren’t very effective at removing the dirt from your windows. To get a professional result, you need to use the tools the professionals use. What you’re looking for is a strip applicator to wash the windows, a bucket, a squeegee with replacement blades, lint-free towels, and a chamois cloth. All of these items can be found at a home improvement store and are relatively inexpensive.

How it’s done

To start, get your bucket with warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Add the dish soap when the bucket is full to keep suds at a minimum. Use the applicator to soap up the entire window, scrubbing any stubborn bits of dirt. Then take your squeegee in an “S” pattern to wipe off the soap, working your way across the window.

Be sure to wipe the squeegee off with a lint-free cloth at the end of each stroke. Keeping your squeegee blade sharp makes for easy cleaning because it removes the water and dirt, leaving your windows clean and streak-free. It’s also a good idea to keep a damp chamois cloth close by to wipe up excess water on the window and window sill.

How to get rid of hard water build-up

If you have a lot of hard water build-up on your windows, you will need more than just dish soap to make your windows sparkle. There are several different methods you can use to get rid of the hard water such as CLR cleaner or straight vinegar. Apply the solution with a sponge or brush, scrubbing gently. Rinse with clean water and use the applicator/squeegee method to clean them.

Interior windows

For interior windows, start by vacuuming out the window sill and window track. You’d be amazed at the amount of dirt and debris that accumulate in sills and tracks. It’s also a good idea to put towels down on the floor when using the squeegee method on your interior windows.

As you can see, cleaning your windows doesn’t have to be a horrible chore. Once you invest in the right tools, getting sparkling windows is just a matter of a few minutes and a little elbow grease.