DIY Window Cleaning

Today, or more like tonight I want to give some pointers for the Do- It-Yourselfers out there.  Cleaning windows can be a tough and exhausting task when not having the right tools, which is why more often than not we get called after hours of frustration and lackluster results. 

There are many different ways that homeowners clean their windows.  From newspapers and vinegar, (hold your nose) ammonia, dawn, baking soda, and the old familiar Windex and paper towel trick.

Here are two I would recommend. Choose one of the two ways depending on your level of adventure.

Option #1  This one involves a squeegee and strip mop which you can pick up from your favorite hardware store.  The squeegees they sell now have come a looooong way in the last few years.  An Ettore brand would be preferable.  Next up buy a bucket and some Palmolive which is easiest on the hands.  Lastly get a sponge to clean out your window sills with. 

Once you have everything fill up the bucket half way with water and then add the dish soap.  Doing it in this order reduces the amount of suds.  You want about 1.5-2 ounces per gallon of water.  Next use the strip mop and apply the solution to your window.  Then squeegee off the water holding the squeegee at a slight angle.  Next wipe up the water on the edges with a towel, and use your sponge to clean the window sills and tracks.  Repeat the process for the rest of your windows.  A razor blade can be used to remove any paint or tough debris.  Be VERY careful when using the sharp razor.

Option #2  If the above prospects sound too intimidating there is good news for you still.  There is a product called Sprayway Glass Cleaner which I believe does a much better job than the other popular glass cleaners.  They didn't even pay me to say that!  The only other thing you need is some paper towels.  Don't scrimp on the brand though or it will shred and not properly absorb all the cleaner.  Bounty or another leading brand works best.

The directions are pretty straightforward.  Just spray on a very light application and wipe off with a paper towel.  Voila! 

If you don't have the time, energy, or have high unreachable windows then a professional window cleaner can take care of it for you, but if you like to clean your inside windows yourself then hopefully this will help save you a headache.

Just don't get too good at it.  Your neighbor might want you to clean theirs!