On one sunny day you notice that the windows you are gazing through are in need of a good cleaning. Like most people, you simply get out the window cleaner, some paper towels, and go to work scrubbing. You clean the inside and then the outside of each window. When finished, you step back to admire your hard work only to find out that it looks worse than when you started. There are smears and streaks every where. You ask yourself two questions. How do the professionals get them so clean? What is the secret?

When the regular store bought glass cleaner fails to do the job, I often see people turning to things like grandma’s old homemade window cleaning solution, newspapers, paper towels, coffee filters, starch, vinegar, and so on.

These types of concoctions were probably the best thing to use when they were the only thing to use. Now we have great tools specifically designed for cleaning windows. These tools are available to everyone and are not exclusive to the professionals.

The Tools

Window cleaning secrets always start with the tools. The right tools alone can make or break a window cleaning job. I have put together a list of proper window cleaning tools below that will get anyone started. These tools can be purchased on the internet or at your very own local janitorial supply store.

• 6" and 10" squeegee

• Extra replacement squeegee rubbers

• Scrubbing wand or cleaning sponge (all natural if possible)

• Bucket

• Professional window scraper

• Lint-free towels for detailing (blue medical towels work great)

• Dish soap

• Ladders (optional)

• Tool belt (optional)

• Extension pole (optional)

The Cleaning Solution

Another part of window cleaning secrets is the cleaning solution itself. Mix about 1 teaspoon of any regular dish soap into a gallon of water. Don’t add anything else! The soap is only needed to help lift debris and to provide lubrication for the squeegee as it travels across the glass. Soak the scrubbing wand or sponge in the soap water and scrub the window. You may need to use a professional window scraper to aid in the removal of stubborn debris. (Always use a professional window scraper and do not scrape tempered glass it may scratch.)

Play and Practice

The first rule of thumb is to never clean windows in direct sunlight. Start out by playing around with the squeegee so that you get used to its feel. Then start at one side of the window and squeegee to the other without stopping. Always start at an edge and finish at an opposite edge. Never start the squeegee in the middle of the window. Only use your lint-free towels to clean up small amounts of leftover water around the edges. After a few windows you will get the hang of it.