Clean Windows Made Simple: DIY Tips, Pro Tricks, and What You’ll Pay

Dirty windows make any room look dull. The good news? You don’t need a magic potion – just the right method, tools, and a bit of elbow grease. In this guide you’ll find the fastest DIY steps, what professionals use, and a clear price picture for hiring a window cleaning service.

DIY Streak‑Free Method (No‑Fuss, No‑Mess)

First, gather a bucket, warm water, a splash of white vinegar, a few drops of dish soap, a microfiber cloth, and a squeegee. Mix 1 cup vinegar with a quart of water and add a teaspoon of dish soap. The vinegar cuts grime, the soap lifts grease, and the water rinses it away.

Start at the top of the pane and work down. Dip the cloth, wring it out, and wipe the glass in a circular motion. When the surface feels clean, pull the squeegee across in a straight line, wiping the blade after each pass. Finish with a dry corner of the microfiber cloth to catch any leftover drips. You’ll see a crystal‑clear finish without the dreaded streaks.

What Pros Use: The Secret Sauce in Their Water

Professional window cleaners often add a tiny amount of ammonia or a commercial glass‑cleaning concentrate to distilled water. The key is purity – distilled water prevents mineral spots that tap water leaves behind. They also use a high‑quality squeegee with a rubber edge that stays flexible, so it snaps back and wipes the glass clean on every pass.

If you’re looking for an eco‑friendly twist, many pros now swap ammonia for a plant‑based surfactant. It works just as well, reduces fumes, and is safer around kids and pets. The bottom line: clean water, the right cleaning agent, and a good squeegee give you pro‑level results.

How Much Does It Cost? 2025 Price Snapshot

Window cleaning prices vary by size, height, and location. In the UK, a standard two‑storey house with 15‑20 windows usually costs between £80 and £150. Factors that push the price up include hard‑to‑reach windows, stubborn hard‑water stains, and the need for post‑construction clean‑up.

Most companies charge per window or per hour. Expect a base fee of around £30 for a minimum job, then £4‑£6 per pane. If you add a water‑feed pole system for high‑rise windows, add another £20‑£40. Some services offer a flat‑rate “sparkle package” that includes interior and exterior cleaning – great for keeping your bill predictable.

Don’t forget to ask about extra fees for travel, ladder safety equipment, or night‑time work. A quick quote from three local cleaners will give you a clear idea of the market and help you avoid hidden charges.

Whether you choose the DIY route or call a pro, the right tools and a clear price expectation make clean windows hassle‑free. Grab that bucket, follow the steps, and enjoy brighter rooms without a streak in sight.