How to clean your windows like a professional
Are you looking for pristinely clean windows without streaks? Want to know 'How do professionals clean windows' and get amazing results every time? We at DA Components know a thing or two about cleaning windows like a pro. Our MD, Darren, has over 20 years of experience in the window cleaning business, and designed products to help make the process more efficient and effective.
There are countless methods for cleaning windows, from using vinegar to the tried-and-true newspaper trick. But, have you ever thought about what professionals do to make your windows look brand new? Are there any tips and tricks you can take away and implement into your cleaning routine?
That being said, let's take a look at how exactly you can clean your windows like a professional.
- Starting with the right tools
- How to clean your windows like a professional
- Step 1: Remove your curtains or blinds
- Step 2: Cleaning the Frames
- Step 3: Cleaning the glass panes
- Step 4: Removing the excess
- Step 5: Drying the Window
Starting with the right tools
Professional window cleaners will tell you that the tools are just as important as the method you apply to your windows. Let's take a look at some of the traditional tools expert window cleaners use and which ones you can easily apply at home.
Bucket: It's not a myth, most professionals do need a sturdy bucket to mix all their window solutions in. You will want to choose one that is wide enough to fit your other tools in and squeeze the water out. Any bucket will do the job, even your washing-up bowl can be used.
Squeegee: This is one of the most crucial tools in your window cleaning kit, so make sure you get the best available on the market for pristine windows. The Steccone "Feather-weight" 12 inch/30 cm Aluminum Squeegee is great as it is a super light squeegee manufactured from aircraft quality aluminium, which is ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue as well as increase speed and comfort.
Mop Washer: A mop washer helps window cleaners make sure all spots are thoroughly cleaned and removes tough dirt from windows. We recommend using the Hedgehog Mop Washer as it incorporates thin abrasive nylon spines throughout the microfiber pile. These tiny quills help to remove tough debris on glass surfaces, making this the best choice for those hard-to-clean jobs.
Scrubber Pads: Another window cleaning tool which again is great at getting rid of tough dirt is the scrubber pad. We believe that the best on the market is Walnut Pads. This innovative cleaning pad is made of recycled polyester, crushed walnut shells are added as a natural, non-scratch abrasive. This pad provides extra scrubbing/cleaning power for virtually any surface. Walnut is a natural abrasive that delivers aggressive cleaning action but is scratch resistant so safe to use on surfaces where scratching is a concern. Walnut pads are becoming a popular choice of cleaning pad as the open web design and thickness ensures it is tough and durable for many different uses and is suitable for glass, ceramic, porcelain, stainless steel, copper, painted surfaces and more.
Window cleaning solution: There are so many different kinds of 'make your own window cleaning solution' methods online but honestly, traditional washing up liquid and water is great for at-home cleaning. Just fill a bucket with a basic mixture of dish soap and warm water, but be careful not to make too many suds as they can leave additional stains if allowed to dry.
How to clean your windows like a professional
Once you have got all your tools ready, it's time to get down and dirty and clean your windows.
Step 1: Remove your curtains or blinds
Start by removing the blinds or curtains and make sure to clean up any dust / cobwebs from the window corners by using a dry brush.
Step 2: Cleaning the frames
So that you don't leak soiled water on clean panes, start washing the frames first. It should only require a quick wipe with a wet sponge, but if they're really dirty, use a mild detergent on the wood or get yourself a specialised cleaning solution if you have uPVC frames.
Step 3: Cleaning the glass panes
The glass panes should be cleaned using a wet mop or our Hedgehog Mop Washer which has your cleaning solution on it. To ensure that all the dirt is removed, give it a good and vigorous rub.
Step 4: Removing the excess
Use a squeegee to remove the excess water, don’t worry too much about speed or technique, move in simple straight lines from top to bottom if you find that easier.
Step 5: Drying the Window
With a damp chamois or microfiber towel, blot out any remaining moisture from the edges, then dry the windowsill. You will also want to avoid using rags or paper towels that can lint the glass.
See our video guide here.