DIY Network

Window-Cleaning Tools Window-Cleaning Tools From "Talking Dirty With the Queen of Clean" episode DQOC-115

You can use a spray-and-wipe solution if you want, but if you want to get your windows really clean, use the tools and solutions of the pros. These include the following:

advertisement

Figure A

Squeegee Janitorial supply stores sell window squeegees with flexible, replaceable blades in several widths, from large18" widths to small 3"-5" widths for small glass panes (figure A). Avoid using car and shower squeegees for window cleaning.

Scrubbers These look like a squeegee wearing a shearling coat. Dip both ends into the cleaning solution, squeeze out excess solution and scrub the windowpane.

Rags or chamois Use to dry window edging and to help remove water from scrubber.

Scrapers with either plastic blades or razor blades Use to remove paint or stubborn debris from windows. Steel wool can also be used here, but it must be a fine grade (#000) and must be used with light pressure to prevent scratching the glass. Do not use steel wool on tinted glass, and never use coarse soap-filled steel-wool pads on windows.

Extension poles Use for high windows.

Figure B

Cleaning Like a Pro

1. Pros use a bucket of warm water with a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid added after the warm water is in the bucket. The idea is to make the water slippery so the dirt can be collected and removed without scratching the glass.

2. Dip the scrubber in the cleaning solution, then squeeze out excess water.

3. Scrub the windows in a back-and-forth and then an up-and-down motion. You can use a sea sponge for the cleaning, but don't use a cellulose sponge.

4. Use the squeegee to cut a line horizontally across the window, then dry the squeegee with a lint-free rag or chamois (figure B).

5. Next, cut a line vertically down the edge of the window. Wipe the squeegee and repeat the process, alternating overlapping downward strokes and drying the squeegee until the window is clean and dry.

6. Use a rag or chamois to wipe window edges and sills.

7. If you have streaks, don't rewet the windows; instead, remove streaks with a blackboard eraser.

8. Don't clean windows in direct sunlight or on a hot day: the solution will dry too fast to do a good job.

Tools do make the difference, and with a little practice, people will think you hired a pro to do your windows.