The most common cause of streaks on windows is allowing the water or cleaner to dry before wiping it off, so clean your windows in the morning or late in the day when the sun isn’t beating down. Also, always wipe window frames, grids and hardware first. Contact Window Cleaning Austin now!
Start at the top of the window and draw your squeegee across in an “S” pattern, wiping the rubber edge with a dry cloth between each stroke.
A basic window washing kit should include a bucket, a microfiber cloth (preferably one made with recycled materials), and a squeegee. You can also purchase commercial window cleaning sprays and soaps with additional cleaning ingredients for tough grime, but clean water is essential for a streak-free shine.
If using tap water, use distilled or filtered as mineral deposits can leave unsightly marks. A clean microfiber cloth should be used to wipe edges and corners as these are where water tends to collect. A squeegee with a long handle is ideal for reaching high outside windows, although you will need to ensure it’s safely positioned and secure on a ladder.
The best squeegees for window cleaning have a flexible rubber blade. They are typically lightweight and made of plastic or stainless steel, and some have a soft rubber for scratch-free application on smooth glass surfaces. A single-blade squeegee is the most common type of professional window washers use, but you can also find a dual-blade version and even a telescoping pole for outdoor windows.
Professionals typically apply the squeegee after washing the window with water and soap. They place the flexible blade in an upper corner of the window and pull down straightly to remove the excess water. Then, they wipe the blade clean with a lint-free cloth (such as old linen napkins or clothes diapers) between strokes to prevent re-contamination of the glass surface.
Using the same technique on all sides of the window helps prevent missed spots. Some people also like to “fanned” the squeegee by wiping it across the surface in several directions after each stroke, and then repeating that process. This helps move any cleaning solution or water that might have collected under the rubber edge and could smear the window surface, leading to streaks.
A clean microfiber cloth should be used to dry the window after it’s been wiped down with the squeegee. You can even crumple up a sheet of newspaper to help absorb any remaining water and create a streak-free finish. Another option is to soak a cloth or towel with cold tea, which will reduce the amount of moisture on the window and eliminate any streaks.
Window Cleaner
Professional window cleaners use a variety of glass cleaning solutions to tackle different types of dirt. They look for a product that is gentle enough to clean windows, but tough enough to remove stubborn stains like water spots, mineral deposits and soap scum. It also needs to leave a smooth surface that squeegees can glide over easily without leaving behind any streaks or residue.
A good quality glass cleaner will typically be formulated with natural ingredients, rather than chemical surfactants, which are known to leave behind streaks on the window. Often, glass cleaners will contain ingredients such as vinegar, rubbing alcohol or liquid dish soap. Some professional glass cleaning companies also offer eco-friendly and biodegradable window cleaners.
It’s important to always read the label of any window cleaning solution, especially if it is a homemade concoction. Some cleaners may require that you mix them with warm or cold water, which can affect how they work. You should also never combine an acid and an alkali in a solution, as this can create dangerous chemical reactions.
Many window cleaners will place a large towel or rag under each pane of glass before they begin to clean it. This is to catch any drips or excess water that could fall off the window. You can also place a cloth under your squeegee or rag to protect it from any water/cleaning solution that may spill on it as you clean.
Some companies will sanitize their brushes or squeegees after each use to avoid any spread of bacteria or viruses that can affect the next person to touch it. They will also sanitize their cleaning buckets and sprayers. It’s important to thoroughly rinse out your equipment, as any left-over chemicals can damage the finish of the window frames and sills.
If you’re worried about the effect of the window cleaning solution on your window frame or sill, you can cover these surfaces with a sheet of plastic. Before beginning your cleaning, it’s a good idea to shake the bottle of cleaner well to help disperse the contents evenly. It’s also a good idea to start at the top of the window, spray it once or twice and then wipe it down with a microfiber cloth in a zig-zag pattern.
Glass Cleaner
Whether you’re battling stubborn dirt and grime on the outside of windows or streaks on the inside, there are a variety of glass cleaners that can help make the job easier. A basic cleaning solution can be made with distilled white vinegar and water. However, using vinegar alone is less effective than combining it with alcohol. Adding the acidic compound helps break down film on windows more efficiently than just water alone.
When choosing a commercial or homemade glass cleaner, be sure to read the label and follow all directions. Glass cleaners can contain strong chemicals that may require special handling, dilution or disposal procedures. Many of these cleaners are also flammable, so be sure to use them in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from fumes. If you work in a healthcare or educational facility, your employer may have specific requirements for which types of cleaners can be used in your workplace.
To ensure that your windows are as clean as possible, it’s important to use the right type of cleaning cloth. Whether you choose microfiber or paper towels, opt for ones with minimal lint to prevent transferring the dirt back onto the window or mirror. You’ll also want to avoid any products that can leave behind a chemical or alcohol residue.
If you’re cleaning a larger surface, a long-handled squeegee can be helpful to reach high windows or window frames. It’s also a good idea to bring a broom to knock down any cobwebs that have gathered on the windowsill or woodwork.
While it may be tempting to spritz the entire window with cleaner, don’t overdo it. Too much cleaner can cause spots and streaks. Aim to spray a light mist and then wipe it off with your squeegee or microfiber cloth.
Some glass cleaners can be abrasive and damage your squeegee or window frame over time. If you’re concerned about the potential for damage, try choosing a glass cleaner that contains ammonia instead of acetone or alcohol. Another option is to purchase a cleaner that includes a built-in Scotchgard protectant. This will make grease, fingerprints and smudges less noticeable on your windows.
Cleaning Tools
Whether you’re cleaning indoor or outdoor windows, the right tools make all the difference. In addition to a high-quality squeegee and microfiber cloth, you’ll also need a bucket, scrubber, scraper or brush and extension pole. A brush is useful for scrubbing away tougher stains or debris and a scraper can be used to remove stuck-on residue from window frames. An extension pole can help you reach higher windows without a ladder.
For indoor windows, the most important tool is a squeegee, which consists of a handle holding a flat rubber blade. It’s an essential tool for removing water and cleaning solution from a glass surface to leave it streak-free and sparkling clean. If you prefer, you can apply your cleaner with a sponge or brush, then follow it up with the squeegee. The key is to apply consistent pressure and not leave any gaps or dry spots.
A squeegee should be rinsed periodically to prevent build-up of soap scum or other residue. It’s recommended that you rinse it at least twice a year to ensure your windows stay clear and streak-free. After rinsing, it’s a good idea to wipe down the frame and sill with a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth. This will remove any excess solution and residue and help you get your windows ready for a final, quick wipe down with the squeegee.
If you’re using a squeegee for outdoor windows, it’s a good idea to invest in a long-handled squeegee with a U-shaped swivel at the base of the handle. This swivel allows you to work in a reverse “U” pattern, which can be more effective than working in straight lines. You’ll also need to be mindful of the weather, as rain can cause a sticky mess on your squeegee that may take longer than usual to dry. To avoid this, plan your cleaning sessions in advance and be sure to have plenty of extra squeegee blades on hand. They’re easy to swap out and available from most window washing suppliers and hardware stores. You can also buy them online.