How to Clean Your Windows Like a Pro: Tips From Your San Diego Replacement Window Experts

Washing your windows is a time consuming job that most people don’t enjoy, but there are ways to clean your windows more efficiently that will give you a better end result. The last thing you want is to spend hours cleaning your windows, only to have them look streaky when you’re done. Here are some tips from the pros to get your windows looking their best!

Invest in Quality Cleaning Equipment

The most important window washing tool you can buy is a good squeegee. Don’t skimp on a cheap one! Buy the best one you can afford. A quality squeegee will last you many years and save you lots of time, since you won’t have to go back and clean the streaks left by an inefficient squeegee. You could also buy a squeegee with replaceable rubber, so you don’t have to buy an entirely new tool when the rubber portion no longer dries well.

For cleaning, we recommend a microfiber washer. The fabric portion of the washer (the sleeve) should be removable so it can be machine-washed. You should purchase an extension pole that will work with both your washer and squeegee, so you can reach the tops of your windows without having to drag a ladder around, and you will also need a bucket that is wide enough to accommodate your washer.

As for cleaning solutions, we recommend that you use ammonia-free products. Ammonia can damage the glass surface and is also a harsh, toxic chemical that you may wish to eliminate from your home as a general rule, especially if you have small children living in your home or if anyone in your family has asthma. There are plenty of good products in hardware or janitorial supply stores, or you can use liquid dish soap.

Before you start, you should also have several clean, lint-free rags on hand.

Window Washing Process

Mix your preferred (ammonia-free) cleaning solution with water in a bucket according to the manufacturer’s directions. If you’re using dish soap, a couple of drops will do. Dunk your window washer into the bucket and rub the cleaning solution over the entire surface of your window. Then, starting at the top of the window, pull your squeegee down over the surface of the window in an S-pattern. Try to maintain a consistent amount of pressure as you dry the window. After each stroke, wipe the squeegee clean with a lint-free rag or microfiber cloth. Use another lint-free rag or chamois to wipe any remaining water from the edges of the glass and a towel to wipe the water and cleaning solution from the windowsill.

Other Pro Window Washing Tips for San Diego Homeowners

Avoid washing your windows on extremely hot days, or when the sun is shining directly on the windows you’re washing. Direct sun and heat cause the windows to air dry before you can properly dry them, which causes streaks and water spots.

If you have windows with divided panes, invest in a squeegee that will fit between the panes (or cut one to fit) to make drying easier.

You can use the same cleaning method described above for your interior glass; just be sure to use towels to protect your windowsill and floors from drips.

For San Diego homes with second-story windows, there are several products on the market that will make cleaning easier. You can purchase an extension pole for your washer and squeegee that will reach the second-story windows, or you can purchase one of the window cleaning products on the market that you attach to a regular garden hose, spray on your window, and allow to dry without having to squeegee. If you have windows that tilt in, you can clean the outside glass from the inside of your home, or you can always use an extension ladder.

There’s nothing like clean windows to make your San Diego home feel brighter and more inviting. Washing your windows at least twice a year using the above tips will keep your windows looking great and help you get the job done efficiently!