"How to Clean Windows to a Shine"

Cleaning windows is a lost art. The idea of keeping them clean to a shine is still a good one, but many people have become too busy to stay on top of it. Cleaning windows when they get a film of dust, dirt or fingerprints is especially helpful for businesses that want to present a clean, professional look. For homeowners that take pride in the appearance of the property, this is also a good idea. Homes for sale should have clean windows before taking photos, having an open house or filming a virtual tour. At the very least, windows should be washed twice a year. For a spruce-up, apply a quick spray cleaner and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth every few weeks, or more frequently if fingerprints are abundant.

Set down newspaper on the ground below the window. Remove any screens or open any shutters blocking access to the window. Use a broom wrapped in a rag to remove cobwebs in hard to reach places. Be sure to close the window before starting the project. Use warm soap and water in a bucket with a squeegee. Dip the squeegee into the solution. Allow the water to run off so that it is still wet, but not dripping in a stream. Run it up and down the window's surface in a vertical direction on the window. Dip the squeegee into the water when it begins to dry, doing one section of the window at a time. Be sure to eliminate any stains and smudges on the window's surface.

Use the reverse side of the squeegee to draw down against the window in firm, single strokes to wipe away the excess water. Start at the highest point and use consistent pressure all the way to the bottom of the surface. Use a single stroke parallel to the next squeegee line. Continue across in a vertical row of strokes until it is complete.

Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe off the vinyl side of the squeegee in between rounds of washing. Wipe up any puddles that accumulate on the windowsill with cotton rags. Next, use new or freshly laundered microfiber towels to polish the window. Eliminate any water or moisture from the surface. Rub the glass until it shines.

Repeat the process on the other side of the window. Be sure to clean up the cleaning supplies after the task is complete. The cotton rags and microfiber towels can be laundered as needed.

There are a number of ways to avoid streaks on the glass. Clean the glass in the early morning or evening when the sun is not shining directly on the surface. This can also be done on an overcast day, but preferably not when it is going to rain. When polishing, use a clean cloth. Those with grease or leftover cleaner from other projects will likely streak the finish.