How to clean windows

When springtime arrives, sunshine streams into your home, bringing with it a promise of warmer days to come. Unfortunately, it also draws attention to all the dirt and grime that the dark winter months have deposited on your windows.

DON’T BE TEMPTED TO DEAL WITH IT STRAIGHT AWAY! You should never wash windows in direct sunlight as the sun’s rays can superheat the glass and cause streaking. Wait for an overcast day, then follow these ten window washing tips. They will save you time and produce superior results.

As with most household tasks, preparation is the key.

1. Assembling your tools

You don’t need much - just a squeegee, a large sponge and a lint-free cloth. But make sure they are clean and of good quality. Cheap materials cost more in the long run and make the job harder.

2. Carrying your tools

It’s a good idea to invest in a tool belt. Instead of bending down to pick up one thing after another, you will have everything you need instantly to hand.

3. Preparing your solution

Ordinary washing up liquid will do the job or you can buy a dedicated window cleaning product. Alternatively, you can make your own. Vinegar or lemon diluted in water give an excellent streak-free finish.

4. Preparing your windows

Start by wiping the windowsills and frames to get rid of cobwebs, dead insects and other debris. If you need to use a sharp blade to remove specks of old paint or encrusted dirt, take great care not to scratch the glass.

5. The pre-wash

You are almost ready to start! Just one job left. Take a damp cloth and wipe the top layer of dirt from the window. By removing this now, you reduce the chances of leaving streaks and smears when you wash it. Once again, beware of scratching the glass as there may little bits of grit stuck to the pane.

6. Applying the solution

Dip your sponge into the cleaning solution and wet the entire window without drenching it. If you use too much liquid, you will have water dripping everywhere.

7. Washing the window

Hold your squeegee at a slight angle, start at the top and work your way gradually down. Use broad vertical strokes, overlapping each one by about an inch to reduce streaking. Don’t forget to clean the blade between each stroke, otherwise dirty water will end up on the parts you have already cleaned.

8. Finishing off

Wipe all the edges of the window with the lint-free cloth to remove any spots of water.

9. An optional final touch

If you are not happy with the finish despite your careful preparation, use a crumpled piece of newspaper to bring up a streak-free shine.

10. Have a rest

The time has come to reward yourself for all your hard work. If the sun has come out, you might like to go out and enjoy it. Then again, now that your windows are sparkling, you may prefer to admire the view from indoors!