1- Choose a dry, cloudy day
Do this job in the blazing sun and the cleaner will dry onto the hot windows before you get to wipe it off, leaving hard-to-remove streaks. If the weather won’t cooperate, start on the shady side of the house.
2- Remove dirt and dust first
Before you get started, sweep dirt from the window frame with a brush or vacuum it up with your machine’s dusting attachment. This will prevent dirt from turning into a muddy mess when mixed with a cleaner. If your window screen looks especially grimy, pop it out and wash with hot, sudsy water and a soft brush, then rinse and let dry before putting it back.
You can also refresh your curtains at the same time by putting them in the dryer for 15 minutes on an “air-only” cycle and rehanging quickly to prevent wrinkles.
3- Pick the right cleaner — and spritz generously
Don’t hold back on the spray, especially if your windows look extra dirty. You need plenty of cleaner to dissolve and suspend the dirt so it can be completely wiped away — skimp and you’ll be seeing streaks.
4- Use a microfiber cloth.
Some folks like drying panes with newspaper, but you’re better off reusable microfiber cloths. “They are super absorbent, washable, and leave the glass shiny and streak-free”.
5- Skip the squeegee
Because of the potential mess and drip factor, she avoids using squeegees, especially for small panes, but they can be more helpful on bigger, picture windows.