How to Clean Your Windows the Right Way

When refreshing your home, you want everything to look clean and well cared for, including your windows. Clean windows can significantly enhance the overall look and feel of your home, helping rooms feel brighter and more inviting. The best part is that cleaning your windows does not have to be a dreaded task. With the right techniques, you can achieve streak-free, crystal clear windows every time.

Here is the ultimate guide to cleaning your windows the right way, along with a few bonus tips to keep your home looking fresh coming into the spring months.

Why Clean Windows Are a Must

Let us be honest. Cleaning windows is one of those tasks we often put off. However, keeping your windows clean is important for several reasons:

Maximise Natural Light: Clean windows allow more natural light into your home, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for the holidays.
Make Your Space Look Polished: Whether you are redecorating, refreshing your space, or welcoming guests, clean windows instantly elevate the overall look of your home.
Increase Window Lifespan: Dirt, grime, and pollutants can accumulate over time, causing wear on your windows. Regular cleaning helps preserve the glass and frames, extending their lifespan

What You'll Need: Cleaning & Supplies

You don’t need anything fancy to get the job done. Woodie’s has a full range of window cleaning tools and solutions to make sure your windows look their best. Whether you're in need of squeegees, microfiber cloths, or window cleaner, they have everything you need to make your windows sparkle. Explore our complete range of window cleaning tools.

Here’s a basic kit:

Squeegee: A high quality squeegee is essential for a streak free finish. Woodie’s offers several options, from handheld squeegees to long handled ones for hard to reach windows.
Microfiber Cloths: Perfect for washing, wiping edges, and buffing the glass. Avoid paper towels or rough cloths that can leave lint or streaks.
Gentle Window Cleaning Solution: Woodie’s carries several cleaners, including Ettore Squeegee Off Liquid Window Cleaner, perfect for streak free results.
Bucket or Spray Bottle: You’ll need something to mix and apply your cleaner.
Soft Sponge or Non-Abrasive Pad: For applying the cleaner, especially if windows have grime build up.
Extension Pole or Long Handled Squeegee: These are useful for larger windows or hard to reach panes.
Optional: Kärcher Window Vac: A convenient tool for streak free results, especially for large glass panes, as it vacuums up excess moisture without leaving streaks. Kärcher Window Vac is available at Woodie’s, making cleaning even easier and more efficient.

Step-By-Step Guide: How to Clean Your Windows

Here’s a solid method that works well, even if you’re doing it yourself:

Dust and pre clean: Start by wiping away dust, cobwebs, or surface dirt from the glass, window frame, and sill using a dry microfiber cloth. This prevents debris from scratching glass or smearing when you clean.
Apply your cleaning solution: Using your sponge or spray bottle, dampen the glass with a gentle window cleaner (or water plus a mild solution). Avoid over soaking the glass, too much liquid can cause streaks.
Use the squeegee: Start at the top of the pane and pull downward in a smooth motion. If the glass is large or tall, consider using a long handled squeegee or extension pole to reach safely.
Wipe the blade between passes: After each downward stroke, wipe the squeegee blade with a clean cloth. A dirty blade will redeposit water or dirt and defeat the point.
Clean edges and corners: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the edges, corners, and window sill. These areas often hide water spots or streaks if neglected.
Buff to perfection: With a clean, dry microfiber cloth, give the glass a final buff to remove any residual moisture and leave a streak free shine.
Repeat both inside and outside: For a truly clear window, clean both sides. Outside panes often catch dust, rain spots, and pollution build up.

Pro tip: Clean on a cloudy day or when windows are not in direct sunlight, when sun hits freshly cleaned glass, the water solution dries too quickly and leaves streaks or spots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Streak-Free Windows

Even seasoned cleaners can make a few mistakes. Here’s a list of things to watch out for to avoid streaks:

Using paper towels: They can leave behind lint and streaks. Always use microfiber cloths for the best results.
Applying too much cleaning solution: Overusing cleaning liquid can leave a residue behind. Lightly spray or dampen your cloth or sponge to avoid this.
Cleaning in direct sunlight: Sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leaving streaks. Clean your windows when they’re in the shade or on a cloudy day.
Using a dirty squeegee: Make sure to clean the blade after each pass. A dirty squeegee will just redistribute dirt, making the problem worse.

Keep Your Home Looking Fresh with Woodies

Regular window cleaning is an easy way to improve the look of your home and create a brighter, more comfortable living space..

Here is a quick checklist to keep your windows looking their best:

Clean windows before redecorating or refreshing rooms: Clean glass reflects light better and makes interiors feel brighter and more open.
Do not forget frames and sills: Wiping down frames and sills completes the look and prevents dirt build-up.
Take care of exterior windows: The outside of your home sets the first impression. Clean exterior windows help your home look neat and well maintained.
Create a simple cleaning routine: Including window cleaning in your regular home care routine makes the task quicker and more manageable.

With the right tools from Woodies, window cleaning is simple and effective. Whether you are freshening up your home or maintaining it year round, clean windows make a noticeable difference.

Looking for more practical home care advice? Explore our Community Blog for helpful guides, tips, and step by step instructions to help you look after your home with confidence.