How to Clean Windows Without Streaks (Inside and Out)

Streaky windows are usually caused by three things: too much cleaner, a dirty cloth, or cleaning in direct sunlight. Once you fix those, getting spotless glass is surprisingly easy. Here's the method professional window cleaners use, adapted for home.

What You'll Need

A bucket
Warm water
Dish soap
White vinegar (optional)
A squeegee
A scrubber or a sponge
Lint-free microfiber cloths
An old toothbrush and a vacuum with a crevice tool (for tracks)

Choose the Right Time

Clean windows on a cloudy day or when the glass isn't in direct sun. Sunlight dries the cleaning solution before you can wipe it off, which leaves streaks.

Make Your Window Cleaning Solution

For most windows, mix:

1 gallon of warm water
A few drops of dish soap (no more than about 1 teaspoon)

For very dirty or greasy glass, add 1 cup of white vinegar. Too much soap is a common cause of streaks, so keep it light.

Step 1: Dust and Clean the Frame First

Wipe the window frame and sill with a damp cloth so dirt doesn't drip onto the clean glass later.

Step 2: Wash the Glass

Dip your sponge or scrubber in the solution and wash the entire pane. Make sure you cover the corners and edges.

Step 3: Squeegee in an "S" Pattern

Dry the top edge of the squeegee blade with a cloth.
Start at a top corner and pull the squeegee across the glass in a smooth, continuous "S" or zigzag motion, working your way down.
Wipe the blade with a cloth after each stroke. This is the secret to streak-free glass.

Step 4: Detail the Edges

Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe any drips along the edges and corners of the frame.

Cleaning Small Windows and Mirrors

For small panes and mirrors, a squeegee may be too big. Spray a vinegar-and-water solution (equal parts) on a microfiber cloth, wipe, then buff with a second dry cloth. Use a "waffle-weave" microfiber cloth for the best finish.

How to Clean Window Screens

Remove the screens and lay them flat on a towel or outside.
Brush gently with a soft brush and soapy water.
Rinse with a gentle spray of water and let them dry completely before reinstalling.

How to Clean Window Tracks

Vacuum loose dirt from the tracks with the crevice tool.
Sprinkle baking soda, then spray with vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes.
Scrub with an old toothbrush and wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Outside Windows

For first-floor exterior windows, rinse the glass with a hose first to remove loose dirt, then follow the same wash-and-squeegee method. For upper floors, use an extension pole or consider hiring a professional. Never overreach from a ladder.

Common Mistakes

Using newspaper (it can leave ink on window frames and is less effective than microfiber).
Using dirty cloths or paper towels that leave lint.
Using too much soap or glass cleaner.

FAQ

Why are my windows streaky even with a squeegee? Usually from a dirty or nicked squeegee blade, too much soap, or not wiping the blade between strokes. Replace worn rubber blades.

How often should I clean my windows? Inside every 1–3 months, outside at least twice a year.

Can I use vinegar on tinted windows? Check your tint manufacturer's guidelines. Mild soapy water is usually the safest choice for window film.