Cleaning Windows: Tips and Guidelines

Windows look best if they are cleaned on a regular basis, at least twice a year on the inside and outside. Here are some useful techniques for cleaning windows:

Wash one side of a window with horizontal strokes and the other side with vertical strokes so you can pinpoint which side of the window has a streak.
Use a squeegee on a long handle or a sponge/squeegee combination to prevent streaks on large windows.
Eliminate tiny scratches on glass by polishing the affected areas with toothpaste.
Washing windows should be done on a cloudy day, because direct sunlight dries cleaning solutions before you can polish the glass properly.
Use a soft toothbrush or cotton swab to clean corners.
To give an extra shine to window glass, polish it with well-washed cotton T-shirts or old cloth diapers. Or rub a clean blackboard eraser over a freshly washed and dried window to give it a diamond-bright shine.
Polish windows to a sparkling shine with crumpled newspaper. The paper also leaves a film that's resistant to dirt.
Wash windows from the top down to prevent drips.
Remember that window cleaners pose a threat to woodwork. Don't let them drip on the windowsill where they can harm the paint or varnish.

Homemade Glass Cleaner Recipe

Don't want to spend money on a glass cleaner? Home recipes work just as well as commercial products for washing windows, and you'll save money. Try this recipe for a homemade glass cleaner:

Use 2 tablespoons ammonia, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol, and 1/4 teaspoon dishwashing detergent.
Add all ingredients to a small spray bottle, then fill the bottle with water and shake well. You can substitute 3 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice for the ammonia.
Use as you would any commercial window cleaner.