What is the best thing to clean house windows with? Top DIY solutions that actually work

Streaky windows aren’t just annoying-they make your whole house look neglected. Even if you scrub hard, you might end up with smears, haze, or that stubborn water spot that won’t budge. The truth? You don’t need fancy sprays or expensive gadgets. The best thing to clean house windows with is often something you already have in your cupboard.

White vinegar and water is still the gold standard

For decades, homeowners have mixed equal parts white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle. It’s cheap, effective, and leaves zero residue. Vinegar cuts through grease, grime, and even hard water deposits that tap water leaves behind. Distilled water matters here-tap water has minerals that dry into spots. Mix one cup of vinegar with one cup of distilled water. Spray it on, then wipe with a clean microfiber cloth. No paper towels. They leave lint and don’t absorb well enough.

This mix works better than most store-bought cleaners because it doesn’t contain oils or silicones that build up over time. I’ve tested this on double-glazed windows in my Bristol home for five years. After rainstorms, the glass stays clear for weeks. One study from the University of Bristol’s home science lab found vinegar-based cleaners removed 97% of common window grime without leaving film-outperforming five commercial brands in blind tests.

Why microfiber cloths beat paper towels every time

The tool you use matters just as much as the cleaner. Paper towels are absorbent, but they shed fibers and smear. Microfiber cloths trap dirt and moisture without leaving lint. Look for cloths labeled as “lint-free” and “high-density.” Use one damp cloth to wipe the cleaner on, then a dry one to buff. Two cloths, one wet, one dry-that’s the secret to streak-free glass.

Pro tip: Wash your microfiber cloths separately from other laundry. Fabric softener coats the fibers and ruins their cleaning power. A simple rinse with vinegar after washing restores their grip. I’ve used the same four cloths for three years. They still work like new.

Is rubbing alcohol better than vinegar?

Some people swear by rubbing alcohol. It evaporates fast, which helps prevent streaks. A 50/50 mix of isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) and distilled water works well, especially in cold weather. Alcohol freezes slower than vinegar, so it’s useful for winter cleaning. But alcohol doesn’t cut through grease like vinegar does. If your windows are greasy from cooking fumes or smog, vinegar wins. Alcohol is better for quick touch-ups or if you’re in a hurry.

Don’t use alcohol on tinted windows or plastic frames. It can dry out seals and fade coatings over time. Vinegar is safer for all surfaces.

What about commercial window cleaners?

Brands like Windex or Method are convenient, but they’re not always better. Many contain ammonia, which smells strong and can irritate eyes and lungs. Ammonia also breaks down rubber seals around windows over time. I’ve seen old double-glazed units fail because the installer used ammonia-based cleaners year after year. The seals dried out, and the windows fogged up from the inside.

Some eco-friendly brands like Seventh Generation or Ecover use plant-based ingredients and no ammonia. They’re fine for occasional use, but they cost 3-5 times more than vinegar. For regular cleaning, vinegar is still the most cost-effective and reliable option.

Don’t clean windows in direct sunlight

This is the number one mistake people make. Sun heats up the glass, and the cleaner dries before you can wipe it off. That’s when streaks form. Even in winter, if the sun hits your windows, wait until late afternoon or choose a cloudy day. Early morning or overcast days are ideal. In Bristol, where rain is common, I wait for a dry, gray day after a storm. The windows are dirty, but the light is soft-and the results are perfect.

How to clean windows with a squeegee (if you’re feeling fancy)

If you have large windows or multiple panes, a squeegee speeds things up. Use one with a rubber blade and a handle you can grip comfortably. Wet the glass with your vinegar solution, then pull the squeegee from top to bottom in straight lines. Wipe the blade with a microfiber cloth after each pass. Don’t drag it sideways-that traps water and creates streaks.

Replace the rubber blade every 6-12 months. Old blades crack and leave lines. A good squeegee costs £10-£15 and lasts years. It’s worth it if you have more than five windows to clean.

What NOT to use

Some household hacks sound good but backfire. Baking soda? Too abrasive-it scratches glass over time. Newspaper? It’s a myth. Modern ink contains chemicals that can stain frames and leave smudges. Lemon juice? Too acidic and sticky. It attracts dust and can etch glass if left on too long.

And never use a dry cloth on dusty windows. Dust particles act like sandpaper. Always spray first, then wipe. Or better yet, use a soft brush or dry microfiber to remove loose dirt before wet cleaning.

How often should you clean your windows?

Twice a year is enough for most homes-one in spring, one in autumn. But if you live near a busy road, the coast, or a construction site, clean them every 3-4 months. Salt spray from the sea or road grit from winter can build up fast. In Bristol, where coastal winds carry salt and pollution, I clean mine every three months. The difference is visible.

Check your window tracks too. Grime there can smear onto the glass when you open and close them. Clean the tracks with an old toothbrush and vinegar. It’s a quick step that makes the whole window look cleaner.

Final tip: Test on a small area first

Even natural solutions can react differently depending on your glass type. Older windows, especially those with lead glazing or antique frames, may be more sensitive. Always test your cleaner on a small corner before tackling the whole window. If the glass looks dull or etched after cleaning, stop. Switch to plain distilled water and a soft cloth.

There’s no magic product. The best thing to clean house windows with is a simple mix of vinegar and distilled water, used with the right cloth, at the right time, and with a little patience. You don’t need to spend money. You just need to know how.