No more streaks: how to clean the windows easily 

Maybe your kids have plastered their fingers all over your windows to show you a cool bird they just saw outside. Or maybe your housemate was so excited to see you come home that they smushed their face against the glass to say ‘Yay, you’re back!’. Owning windows can be tricky, never mind cleaning windows... 

Those smeary, smudgy windows are marked with love – sometimes literally, in heart shapes! And that’s ok – because knowing how to clean windows without streaks is easy. Here are our window-cleaning tips and bits of advice on how to wash windows that make smeary windows no big deal! You may even be tempted to try out the face-smushing greeting yourself… 

1. Get ready for cleaning windows 

Cleaning the windows is one of those jobs that can be easily overlooked and it's not always a top priority. And although it's not one of those jobs we do every day, it can still be a good idea to give them a thorough clean inside and out several times a year. It might even be more often if you've got little ones tearing through the house! But that can come in handy... 

First things first: rally your crew. The more hands on deck, the better, and if kids are in the mix, it’s a perfect chance to show them that it isn't just necessary—but cleaning can actually be a blast. 

Everyone rounded up? Wonderful! Now, it’s time to arm yourselves for the skirmish against the stubborn streaks and specks of dust marring your windows. This isn’t just cleaning—it’s an act of love, transforming those murky panes into clear portals to the world outside. Now everyone can see the glorious outdoors, or just the neighbours mowing the lawn... Here’s what to include in your arsenal, or exactly what to use to clean windows: 

The best way to clean windows without streaks is to choose a cloudy day, as direct sunlight dries your windows too quickly, leaving smears behind. Prepare each window before you start by tying back curtains or taking down blinds and removing any items from the windowsill. Then take a dry brush and sweep around the corners of the window frame and window furniture, removing all dust, deserted mugs of tea, and fossilised flies. 

2. Prepare the windows for cleaning

We all relish the chance to bask in the sunshine outdoors, but when it comes to window cleaning, a cloudy day is your secret weapon and the best way to clean windows without streaks. Why? Without the sun's rays to hasten the drying process, your windows won't betray you with those lanky and long streaks. 

And hey, on a cloud-covered day, what better replacement activity to your postponed outdoor adventures? (Okay, no, we agree – there are other more fun things.) 

• Prepare each window before you start by tying back curtains, taking down blinds, and removing any items from the windowsill. 
• Then take a dry brush and sweep around the corners of the window frame and window furniture, removing all dust, deserted mugs of tea, and fossilised flies. 
• Use a piece of paper towel to wipe away any obvious greasy marks or fingerprints, before throwing it in the bin.  

When you want to know what to use to clean windows, a paper towel is preferable at this stage because it will avoid the transfer of grease to cloths or sponges (which can end up being spread to other areas of the window).  

 3. How to wash windows

Next, clean your windowsill, before using a sponge and warm soapy water or window-cleaning spray to clear away any dirt from your windows. Remove the excess water with a squeegee, starting at the top of the window and working your way down in an ‘S’ shape for best results. Be sure to wipe the blade of the squeegee regularly with a paper towel to avoid wiping grimy dirt back onto your windows! 

4. Remove any excess water when cleaning windows

Using a damp cloth, remove any remaining water/cleaning spray your windows. Work in small circles or strokes from the top of the window downwards, until all of the glass is clean. Also wipe the frame and underneath the windowsill to catch any water/cleaning spray that may have dripped while you have been cleaning windows, before drying thoroughly with a paper towel.  

 5. Buff windows for a high shine finish

The best way to clean windows without streaks is all in the buffing. Grab an extra pair of hands (your housemate, a partner, or the kids, if they’re old enough) and a couple of microfibre cloths and see who can get the shiniest finish.   

Everyone in your house will appreciate the love, sweat, and tears you’ve put into making their windows, well, see-through! And let’s not forget, they’ll love being able to spy on all the neighbours without having to squint through murky fingerprints and grime, all thanks to you.

Other FAQs & window cleaning tips 

How to clean windows without streaks? 

If you’ve followed our guidance and the streaks are still there, this may call for more specialist window-cleaning sprays. If you want your windows to be absolutely spotless, it's worth investing in professional cleaning tools. There are window vacuums available that will leave your windows spotless with zero streaks whatsoever (but they’re not cheap!). 

How to wash windows from the outside? 

Whilst the specialist window-cleaning spray can be a good option for the inside windows, it is generally not advised to give the same treatment to outside windows, as it’s just not necessary. So, there's no need for fancy detergents or chemicals – you can either use a sponge, soap, and water, or you can hire a local window-cleaning service which is usually good value for money. 

What should you avoid when cleaning windows? 

It may be tempting but try not to use an all-purpose cleaner when cleaning your windows. This can leave streaks as well as damage the windowsill and hardware over time. On top of that, try not to leave dust or build up on a window as these small particles can scratch the glass. 

Which items are best to clean windows with? 

There is a vast array of solutions you can clean your windows with, so knowing what to choose can be a little perplexing at times! You can’t go wrong with distilled white vinegar, but pre-made solutions or dish soap mixed with vinegar are also good options. Of course, any soft towel or microfibre cloth will be good enough to tackle any dirty window, so long as they’re clean themselves. 

How often should I clean my windows? 

There's no set schedule for how often you should be cleaning your windows—simply tackle them when the smudges, fingerprints, and patches of grime become more artistic expression than view. Squeeze in some window washing when you can find a spare moment, and if you have kids, don't forget to enlist their eager hands more often! Tell them the window is their canvas, the cleaning spray their paint, the cloth their brush. That'll work until next time when they use actual paint and a brush to attack those gleaming windows... 

Now you know how to clean windows without streaks, on top of some other window cleaning tips and tricks, your windows will sparkle when the sun comes out, and your home should feel that little bit brighter.