If you’ve ever tried to clean a large, dirty window with a cleaning solution and paper towels, you know this method only goes so far. There’s nothing worse than investing time in cleaning glass only to step back and see a streaky surface. 

It’s time to become a better window washer. Instead, forgo the miracle cleaning products and use some good old elbow grease. Learn how to wash windows like a pro using our cleaning tips below.

First, let’s tackle some common questions about cleaning windows.

What is the best homemade window cleaning solution?

If you’re frustrated with store-bought window cleaners, why not try making a cleaning solution at home? To mix up a batch of powerful window wash, add one part water to 10 parts of distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle and stir or shake to combine.  

Before cleaning, we recommend removing all surface dirt from the glass. This built-up dust will only create streaks later on, even if you’re using the best cleaning solution out there. Use a soft microfiber or other line-free cloth to remove that top layer of grime before attempting to clean the glass. 

Spray the vinegar solution on the window and rub the surface with a lint-free towel to remove stains. Then, dry the glass with a second absorbent, clean cloth. The key to achieving spotless windows is never introducing dirt back into the area. This is why paper towels are a decent option in a pinch. Since they’re disposable, you can always grab a fresh sheet before wiping down an area.

You can still use this vinegar solution if you’re working on a big window. Clean the surface with a wet sponge instead of a cloth, then wipe away grime and excess water with a squeegee for a perfect finish. 

What is the best way to clean with store-bought products? 

Plenty of functional glass cleaners exist on the market, including the classic, Windex. When using a store-bought product, success isn’t as much about the cleaner as it is about technique. 

Above, we mentioned wiping away the top layer of dirt before starting to clean glass surfaces, and this step is essential regardless of the product you choose. Even if a cleaner advertises a streak-free clean, the product is only as good as the method you use to apply it. We recommend the aforementioned advice of generously coating the surface of the glass with product and using a sponge and then squeegee to wipe away grime. 

When choosing between store-bought products, don’t feel confined to those marketed as glass cleaners. Surface sprays and soap scum removers can be very effective at removing dirt. Some experts even recommend avoiding traditional ammonia-based glass cleaners because they can leave behind a filmy layer that attracts dirt.

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Advanced methods for tough jobs

Here are some expert window cleaning tips if the simple approaches just aren’t cutting it. 

How to clean really dirty windows

If you’ve just moved into a new apartment and it looks like the windows haven’t been washed in years, don’t panic. You’ll need to skip domestic glass cleaners like Windex and opt instead for soapy water to remove the build up. 

In a bucket, combine dish soap and water. Go easy on the soap because excess suds can be difficult to rinse away. Use a bristled brush to work the soapy liquid over the surface of the glass, being careful not to scratch the window in the process. Constantly cleanse the surface with water to wipe away loose dirt granules, which can scrape glass. Then, rinse the window with clean water and squeegee away excess liquid. 

Housekeeper’s tip: Whenever using a squeegee to achieve the perfect clean, be sure to work in the right direction. Always move the tool across and down to avoid nasty drips that turn into dirty streaks once dry. Wipe off the blade frequently to remove grime from the tool. 

How to clean outside windows from inside

Cleaning the inside of your windows might be part of your routine, but if you want to include the exterior windows in your spring cleaning for streak-free shine, we understand. But high windows can be tough to reach. If you’re thinking about cleaning your second (or fifth) story windows from the inside, our first piece of advice is to proceed with caution. Our second piece of advice? Consider calling a professional. 

If safe, you can remove the window entirely from the frame and clean the glass before reinserting the window in the opening. If you can’t take the window off but can move it to one side, carefully reach around and wipe off the excess dust and dirt with a microfiber cloth. Since this method can be tricky—not to mention dangerous—we don’t recommend other advanced cleaning techniques, which could put you in a precarious position. 

How to use professional window washing equipment

If you want to become an expert at glass cleaning, invest in a professional-grade window washing kit. It will likely include a special draining bucket, a squeegee, and even a glass scraper. 

These products are intended for the toughest of jobs. The custom bucket helps you squeeze out dirty water from the squeegee and the blade allows you to remove calcium deposits and deep stains. Be sure to read up on safely and correctly using this tool before scraping up your windows (or worse, your hands). 

You can also pick up a strip washer tool, an extendable plush brush that easily grabs dust and dirt.

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It’s time to get cleaning products for your window washing session. Let Gopuff deliver vinegar, window wash, or any other household items you need so that you can spend a few more minutes relaxing before your big housekeeping project.