Cleaning your windows to achieve crystal clear, streak-free results is simpler than it seems, and it doesn’t have to involve Windex or harsh chemicals. Many homeowners are accustomed to using spray bottles and paper towels to clean windows, but nothing beats the efficiency and effectiveness of a squeegee. If you want to learn how to clean windows without Windex and achieve professional-grade results, a squeegee is your best friend. Not only does it provide the best possible finish, but it also helps you complete the job in a fraction of the time compared to using paper towels or old rags. While window cleaning preferences may vary, a squeegee consistently produces the best results, leaving your windows spotless and gleaming.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Windows Without Windex
With the right tools and technique, cleaning your windows can be an enjoyable and efficient task. Follow these easy-to-implement steps to clean your windows without Windex and achieve crystal-clear results.
Gathering the Right Tools
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools for the job. Proper window washing equipment is key to achieving professional-looking results. Fortunately, the same high-quality equipment used by professionals is readily available at hardware stores and home centers, and it’s inexpensive. Once you have your equipment, you can enjoy pristine windows with little maintenance required for the tools.
You will need:
- A 10 or 12-inch squeegee
- A scrubber or window washing sponge
- A bucket
- A mild hand dishwashing liquid or a specialized window washing solution
- Small towels or lint-free rags for wiping down surfaces
- Extra squeegee rubbers (at least two or three) in case the blade gets damaged during use
The squeegee should be the right size for your window, and the scrubber is essential for loosening any dirt or grime before you start squeegeeing the window. Having extra squeegee rubbers on hand ensures you can replace them if they get nicked or sliced during use.
Step 1: Scrub the Glass
Start by scrubbing the glass to loosen any dirt or grime. This is a crucial step, especially for exterior windows, where dirt buildup can be more noticeable. A scrubber or sponge soaked in soapy water will help you clean even the edges of the window. When scrubbing, be sure to cover the entire surface of the glass, working from top to bottom. You can use horizontal or vertical strokes, but make sure the edges are thoroughly cleaned to ensure the best results. If you’re cleaning vertical strokes, direct any excess water toward uncleaned areas to prevent streaking.
Step 2: Clean a Starting Strip
Now that the glass is scrubbed, it’s time to begin using the squeegee. To get started, angle the squeegee so that only its rubber edges make contact with the glass. It’s most effective to begin at the top corners of the window. This technique ensures that you’re cleaning a narrow strip from top to bottom, which will help you achieve better results as you continue.
Once you’ve cleaned the starting strip, you’ll be able to make horizontal strokes along the rest of the window. This method helps avoid the buildup of excess water and ensures your strokes are more effective.
Step 3: Wipe the Squeegee Clean
After each stroke with the squeegee, you’ll need to clean the rubber blade to prevent dirt and water from transferring back onto the window. Wipe the rubber blade across a clean towel or scrubber to remove any residue from the window. Doing this ensures that each subsequent stroke is as clean and streak-free as possible.
As you continue to clean the window, work the squeegee downwards, overlapping each stroke by approximately 2 inches to ensure thorough coverage. Be sure to pull the squeegee at an angle to direct any excess water down the window. If the blade gets too wet, wipe it clean and repeat the process for every stroke.
Step 4: Wipe Off Excess Water
Once you’ve finished using the squeegee, there may be excess water at the bottom edge of the window. To complete the cleaning process, use a clean towel or rag to wipe away any remaining water or streaks. For best results, use a lint-free rag to prevent any fibers from sticking to the glass.
Tips for Squeegee Success
The best part about squeegees is that they can be used for both interior and exterior windows. If you get the hang of the process, you can use the same technique to clean virtually every glass surface in your home, including mirrors, shower doors, and glass tabletops. With practice, you’ll find that using a squeegee is an efficient and satisfying way to get windows sparkling clean.
Teaching friends and family how to clean windows without Windex and encouraging them to try out this method could help start a trend of streak-free, eco-friendly window cleaning. Not only will your windows look professional, but the technique will save you time, money, and hassle compared to traditional methods using paper towels and commercial cleaners.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to keep your windows shining and clear without the use of harsh chemicals or expensive store-bought cleaners. Once you perfect your window-cleaning technique, you’ll enjoy sparkling windows and a more natural, effective cleaning method!