The secret to getting clean, streak-free windows is having the proper tools. Invest in a good squeegee, a squeegee wet cover (or a cleaning cloth attached to the squeegee with rubber bands) and dry cleaning cloths.

We asked cleaning expert Cynthia Townley Ewer, author of Houseworks, to explain the simple three-step process with these tools in hand.

Step1: Apply the Cleaning Solution

Pour your preferred cleaning solution into a bucket. Make sure the bucket is wide enough for the squeegee to fit into. Dunk the squeegee with the wet cover or attached cleaning cloth into the bucket. Smear the cleaning solution over the entire surface of the window.

Remove the wet cover or cleaning cloth from the squeegee. Working from top to bottom, draw the squeegee across the window, skimming the cleaning solution and dirt from the glass. Curve the squeegee downward at the end of each stroke.

Step 2: Dry the Squeegee

Use a fresh, clean cloth to wipe the squeegee dry after each pass across the window. Work from the top moving down to the bottom. A dry squeegee avoids drips and keeps streaks from forming.

Step 3: Finish With a Cleaning Cloth

When you're done with the squeegee, run the cleaning cloth along the "wet" side of the window to dry the drips left behind. Move to the window sill and soak up any cleaning solution. Polish the sill dry with a fresh cleaning cloth.