DIY Window Cleaning – Simple Steps for Streak‑Free Windows

Got dirty windows and no budget for a pro? You don’t need fancy chemicals or a ladder that scares the cat. With a few everyday items you can make your panes shine like new and keep the streaks away. The trick is using the right mix, the right tools, and a method that works every time.

What You Need

Grab a bucket, a spray bottle, and a clean microfiber cloth or a cheap squeegee. Microfiber is the secret weapon – it lifts dirt without scratching the glass. For the cleaning solution mix one part white vinegar with three parts warm water. If you hate the vinegar smell, add a few drops of lemon juice or a splash of your favourite scented dish soap. A soft‑bristle scrub brush helps on stubborn grime, and an old newspaper can be used for a final polish if you like a paper‑dry finish.

Step‑by‑Step No‑Streak Method

1. Prepare the glass. Dust the surface with a dry microfiber cloth. This removes loose dust that would otherwise turn into streaks when wet.

2. Apply the solution. Spray the vinegar‑water mix evenly over the pane. Work from top to bottom so any drips fall onto already‑wet glass, not dry spots.

3. Scrub lightly. Use a circular motion with a soft brush or the cloth to loosen fingerprints and smudges. For exterior windows, a garden hose can rinse off loose dirt before you spray the solution.

4. Squeegee or wipe. If you have a squeegee, pull it across the glass in a smooth, overlapping stroke, wiping the blade with a clean cloth after each pass. No squeegee? Fold the microfiber cloth into a towel‑size square and wipe the glass in a “Z” pattern – horizontal, then vertical, then diagonal – to catch every drop.

5. Dry the edges. Grab a dry corner of the cloth and run it along the window frame and sill. This prevents water marks where the glass meets the wood or metal.

6. Polish for shine. If you want extra sparkle, crumple a piece of newspaper and give the glass a quick rub. The ink adds a mild abrasive that takes away any faint streaks left behind.

For tough mineral deposits, sprinkle a little baking soda on a damp cloth and rub the spot. Rinse with plain water and dry. If you’re dealing with exterior grime like bird droppings or sap, let the vinegar mix sit for a minute before scrubbing – the mild acid breaks down the residue without harming the seal.

Finish by stepping back and checking the glass from different angles. Spot any missed streaks and give them a quick swipe with a dry microfiber corner. You’ll be surprised how clear the view becomes.

With this routine you can clean every window in a house in less than an hour and keep the results looking fresh for weeks. No streaks, no expensive cleaners, just plain old vinegar, water, and a good cloth. Try it today and see how easy a sparkling home can be.