Tired of cleaning your windows? You are being so careful and following the online suggestions, yet there they are – streaks!
No matter how many times you wipe it down, what do you get? A streaky window!
Learning how to get streak-free windows isn’t easy. But it sure looks nice when it’s done correctly.
A flawless finish on your windows not only enhances the overall aesthetic appeal but also allows natural light to enter your home without any obstruction.
In this post, we will walk you through the steps to a streak-free window cleaning system.
Whether it’s cleaning car windows, an exterior window, or a single window pane, we’ll help you get that streak-free window.
Here’s How To Not Get Streak Free Windows
You’ve heard all the suggestions. Read all the “tips” on the web. So what’s the problem?
It’s simple, windows can be difficult to clean. For a lot of reasons, and we won’t go into them here (science and stuff). But here are some of the more common “how-to’s” that, quite frankly, don’t work well and border on “window myths.”
Streak-Free Window “Hacks” You Can Avoid:
- Newspaper trick: Instead of using paper towels or rags, try wiping your windows with old newspapers to prevent streaks.
- Cornstarch magic: Add one tablespoon of cornstarch to your window cleaning solution for a smoother glide and streak-free finish.
- Clean on cloudy days: Direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leading to streaks. Clean your windows on overcast days instead.
- Use a tea bag: Yep, you heard right. Does it work? I suppose it’s worth trying if you have some free time, drink a lot of tea, and you’re really bored.
- Vinegar: It’s been said that adding vinegar to the water helps. While Vinegar is a safe and effective cleaner around the house and for drains, it doesn’t do much for windows. And it doesn’t sanitize either.
Alright, so now you know what doesn’t work. Great, but you still don’t have streak-free windows.
Now what?
Don’t worry. Penguin Window Cleaning is here to help.
Spoiler Alert: Your technique, equipment, and experience are the biggest factors in how to get streak-free windows.
1. The Right Tools For Streak Free Windows
To achieve streak-free windows, you’ll need the right cleaning solution specifically designed for windows. Many commercial glass cleaners promise a streak-free finish, but they don’t work all that well. Want to know our little professional secret?
The solution is simple, and you can make it yourself. Here’s your professional Homemade Window Cleaner Recipe:
- Mix water and dish soap. Be sure to add the soap after the water. That’s it! (We like Dawn.)
In addition to using the right cleaner, cleaning glass requires quality tools the pros use:
- Microfiber Towel: You need something that is very absorbent, and doesn’t leave lint behind.
- Squeegees: A few different sizes are a good idea. Don’t skimp on this tool. It is a key part of getting those streak-free windows.
Remember that proper technique is just as important as having good supplies. We’ll cover that in a bit. But here’s one very important safety point:
If you need to use a ladder to reach those higher-up windows, please be careful. It’s a common cause for falls leading to serious injury. If you’re not sure about climbing up a ladder, don’t.
Here are some good tips on ladder and cleaning safety.
For the best streak-free results, make your very own professional cleaning solution: soap and warm water, and then use the right tools. Piece-of-cake.
2. Prepare the Area For Streak Free Windows
Before you can achieve streak-free windows, you’ll need to prepare them for cleaning. Here are some steps to follow:
- Remove any window screens: If your windows have screens, take them off before washing.
- Dust window frames: To prevent dirt from getting onto the glass while cleaning, use a clean rag or duster to wipe down the window frames.
- Rinse with water: Gently wash the entire surface of each window using a sponge or soft cloth soaked in warm water.
- Squeegee excess water: Use a squeegee to remove excess water from the glass by swiping it horizontally across each pane. This will help reduce water spots.
This cleaning before the cleaning takes more time. However, it will help to ensure that your windows are ready for an effective and efficient application of your “professional” cleaning solution.
3. Apply Cleaning Solution To The Window
Now it’s time to apply your homemade cleaning solution. Start by applying just enough of your solution onto the window surface. Avoid using too little as this can lead to an uneven application and ultimately result in streaks. Too much will leave behind extra work. If you have trouble spots, such as tape residue, treat these spots separately.
Next, use a high-quality squeegee for wiping off the cleaning solution from top to bottom.
Hold the squeegee at a 45-degree angle against the window and make sure you maintain consistent pressure throughout each stroke. This will help prevent streaks caused by inconsistent contact with the glass.
- TIP: To avoid drips on your window frames or floor, wipe your squeegee blade dry after each pass with a clean rag.
- BONUS TIP: For smaller windows or hard-to-reach areas, consider using a very small squeegee or a microfiber cloth instead.
Time to finish off the window cleaning process by drying off the window.
4. Dry the Windows For a Streak-Free Shine
After applying your window cleaning solution and wiping it off with a squeegee, it’s time to dry the windows for that perfect streak-free finish.
Using a clean, dry cloth or microfiber towel in this step as any residue left on the window can cause streaks.
- Microfiber cloths: These are highly recommended for drying windows because they’re lint-free and super absorbent. Gently wipe down the glass in circular motions to remove any remaining water or cleaning solution.
- Clean rag: A clean cotton rag will also do the trick; just make sure it’s free of dirt and debris before using it on your windows.
- Paper towels: If you must, but use high-quality options that won’t leave lint behind on your freshly cleaned windows.
To prevent streaks even further, consider drying your windows from top to bottom. This helps gravity pull any leftover moisture downward instead of leaving droplets across the glass surface.
Once the windows are completely dry, they should be inspected for any missed spots or streaks.
Getting streak-free windows can be a challenge, even with the above instructions. Want in on another little secret?
Let a professional window cleaner do it for you!
Let’s Recap How To Get Streak Free Windows
Achieving streak-free windows requires the right (basic) cleaning solution, proper preparation of the windows, application of the cleaning solution, and thorough drying.
By following these steps and using a clean rag to wipe down both the window frames and glass, you should end up with streak-free windows.
If you’re looking for professional help in achieving perfectly clean windows without any hassle or stress on your part, consider contacting Penguin Window Cleaning. We are based in Rogers, but serve the greater Twin Cities area. This includes all of the Western suburbs, including Medina, Plymouth, Elk River, and more.
When it comes to cleaning windows that are spotless and streak-free, it’s not cleaning solutions or microfiber that will do the trick. It’s experience and professional know-how.
Besides, haven’t you got better things to do this weekend? Contact us today: 763-498-9085 to learn more about how we can help you enjoy your free-time! We also clean gutters and screens!
Watch How Our Window Cleaning Team Gets Streak Free Windows Every Time
FAQs About How to Get Streak Free Windows
When it comes to achieving streak-free windows, many Twin Cities homeowners have questions about the best techniques and products to use.
Why are my windows always streaky?
Your windows may be consistently streaky due to using an improper cleaning solution or technique. To achieve a streak-free finish, you’ll need a pro cleaning solution (soap and warm water) along with the right tools and techniques.
What is the trick to streak-free windows?
The key to streak-free windows lies in choosing the right cleaning solution, preparing your window surfaces properly, applying the cleaner evenly with a squeegee, and drying any remaining residue with a clean rag.
Does vinegar make windows streak free?
Vinegar is said to help with streak-free windows. But lots of people have tried this and found it doesn’t work well. Mixing equal parts white vinegar and water creates an effective homemade cleaning solution that cuts through grime, but it probably won’t do much for your windows.
