

If you have curtains, this is a good time to remove and wash them, following the care instructions. Start by removing dust from the window frame, tracks and sill with a vacuum, duster or cloth.Now that you know common mistakes to avoid, read on for our step-by-step guide on the best way to clean your windows, both inside and out, without streaks.
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Getty Images How to Clean Windows, Step by Step
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Using a microfiber cloth will keep your windows streak-free. If any streaks do form, you'll easily know whether they're on the outside or the inside. When you're cleaning, wipe one side of the window horizontally and the other vertically. You only need to clean your windows once or twice a year, Forte says, but it's even easier if you divide the job up and do it room by room. Mistake #6: Cleaning all your windows in one day. "You squeegee down and where does the water go? On the floor."īecause of the potential mess and drip factor, she avoids using squeegees, especially for small panes, but they can be more helpful on bigger, picture windows. "Professional window cleaners swear by them, but you have to know how to use them correctly," Forte says. In our most recent test of the best paper towels you can buy, Bounty Regular held up the best when wet. Weak paper towels can shred and leave lint behind. If you would rather use paper towels, choose a brand that's up to the task. Try Casabella Microfiber Glass Cloths, which have a special honeycomb texture to nab water spots, smudges and dirt from mirrors and glass without scratching. "They are super absorbent, washable and leave the glass shiny and streak-free," Forte says. Some folks like drying panes with newspaper, but you're better off reusable microfiber cloths. Check out more of our top-tested cleaners, depending on the job: The fine mist from the bottle stays where you spray until you wipe it, meaning less drips and mess. She recommends Invisible Glass Cleaner With EZ Grip. "You need plenty of cleaner to dissolve and suspend the dirt so it can be completely wiped away - skimp and you'll be seeing streaks," Forte says. Mistake #3: Skimping on window cleaner.ĭon't hold back on the spray, especially if your windows look extra dirty. LAB TIP: You can also refresh your curtains at the same time by putting them in the dryer for 15 minutes on an "air-only" cycle and rehanging quickly to prevent wrinkles. If your window screen looks especially grimy, pop it out and wash with hot, sudsy water and a soft brush, then rinse and let dry before putting it back.įor quickly dusting shades and blinds, Forte recommends going over both sides with a microfiber duster, or opening the slats and going over each one with a damp cloth followed with a dry one. This will prevent dirt from turning into a muddy mess when mixed with a cleaner. Mistake #2: Spraying cleaner on top of dirt and dust.īefore you get started, sweep dirt from the window frame with a brush, or suck it up with a handheld vacuum or your machine's dust attachment. If the weather won't cooperate, start on the shady side of the house. "Do this job in the blazing sun and the cleaner will dry onto the hot windows before you get to wipe it off, leaving hard-to-remove streaks," Forte says. Mistake #1: Choosing a sunny day to clean your windows.
