How to Clean Outside Windows
Old tricks, new tools, and a sparkling finish
Let’s face it— cleaning outside windows isn’t exactly a fun Sunday activity. It’s messy, time-consuming and sometimes even a little dangerous. But nothing beats the feeling of crystal clear glass and sunlight pouring in. So whether you’re prepping for guests, listing your home or just tired of squinting through streaks, we’ve got you covered with the best ways to clean those exterior panes—from the old-school elbow grease methods to modern, pro-approved techniques.
Why Clean Outside Windows Anyway?
You might be wondering, “Do I really need to?” The short answer? Yep.
Here’s why it matters:
- Better curb appeal: Clean windows make your home look well taken care of.
- More natural light: Dirty glass blocks sunlight and we all know how precious that is in Canada.
- Longer window life: Dirt, bird poop and hard water can damage the glass and frames over time.
Plus there’s something mentally refreshing about a clean view of the outdoors—especially after a long winter.
Classic DIY Methods That Still Work
Let’s start with what your grandparents swore by. These traditional window cleaning tricks are cheap, cheerful and surprisingly effective.
1. Vinegar & Water Solution
This one’s a classic and for good reason.
How to do it:
- Mix 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts warm water
- Pour into a spray bottle
- Spray on the window
- Wipe with a lint-free cloth or old newspaper
Pros: Natural, streak-free and eco-friendly
Cons: Doesn’t cut through heavy grime or oily spots
2. Dish Soap and Warm Water
You likely have everything you need already.
Steps:
- Fill a bucket with warm water
- Add a squirt of mild dish soap
- Use a sponge or microfiber cloth to scrub
- Rinse with clean water and dry with a squeegee
Why it works: Soap lifts dirt without damaging the glass
Watch out for: Streaks if you don’t rinse well
3. Newspaper Instead of Paper Towels
Sounds weird right? But newspaper doesn’t leave lint and can buff out streaks.Tip: Wear gloves—newsprint ink can stain your hands.
Modern Tools & Tricks That Make It Easier
DIY’s great but tech has stepped in to take some of the pain out of window washing.
1. Telescopic Poles with Squeegees
Got second-storey windows? A telescopic pole is your best friend. You can clean higher without climbing a ladder.
Look for: Poles with water-fed brush heads for extra power
2. Magnetic Window Cleaners
Perfect for apartment dwellers or homes with hard to reach windows.
How it works:
- Two magnets hold pads on either side of the window
- You move the inside pad and the outside follows
Good for: Light cleaning between deep cleans
3. Robot Window Cleaners
Yes this is a thing. Little machines that suction to the glass and clean for you.
Pros: Hands-free and safe
Cons: Not great on heavily soiled windows or corners
Dealing with Stubborn Grime: Tips That Actually Work
Some dirt doesn’t budge with just a cloth and soap. Here’s how to deal with the tough stuff:
- Hard Water Stains: Use a 1:1 vinegar and water mix. Let it sit on the glass for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Bird Droppings: Use warm, soapy water and a non-scratch scrub pad.
- Mould or Mildew: A mix of water and a small amount of bleach (always use gloves) can help remove buildup on frames.
Always rinse thoroughly—and never mix cleaning chemicals. That’s not just a tip — it’s a safety must.
Quick Dos and Don’ts
Do:
✔ Clean on a cloudy day – sun dries too fast, leaving streaks
✔ Use horizontal strokes outside and vertical inside – makes smudges easier to spot
✔ Dry with a squeegee for a streak-free shine
Don’t:
✘ Use abrasive pads that scratch glass
✘ Lean out of windows dangerously
✘ Skip rinsing—soap residue attracts more dirt
When DIY Isn’t Enough
You’ve tried the spray bottle, the pole and even the newspaper. But if the windows still look foggy, you’re short on time or you just don’t like ladders, it might be time to let the pros in.
Why Hire a Pro?
- Safety: Especially for multi-storey homes
- Speed: They’ve got it down to a science
- Gear: From pure water systems to professional-grade squeegees
- Long-term savings: They notice issues like frame rot or cracks early
You don’t have to hand over the whole house—some people just book exterior window cleaning twice a year and do the insides themselves.
Sparkling Windows, Less Stress
From vinegar and elbow grease to window-cleaning robots, there’s a solution for everyone. Whether you love a good DIY project or prefer to sit back and enjoy the view, cleaning your outside windows doesn’t have to be a hassle.
Still, if you’re looking at your windows right now thinking, “Not a chance,” don’t worry. Sometimes the smartest move is to call in a local window cleaning team and let them do the hard work. That way you can enjoy the sunshine — without the streaks or the stress.
Want to enjoy the view without breaking a sweat? You know what to do.