Window cleaning: tips for sparkling windows

Choose the right time

Wait until you have moved out before cleaning the windows, along with the rest of the apartment. Then nothing will be in your way. Clean the balcony or terrace before starting on those windows and doors. It is also important to clean shutters, blinds and awnings before you do the windows. If you are moving at the height of summer, it’s best to clean the windows in the early morning or towards evening. Otherwise the heat during the day will dry the cleaning solution before you can wipe it away, leaving streaks behind.

Very low temperatures are not ideal for window-cleaning either. A thin layer of water will freeze on the window panes, making streaks inevitable. Tip: add some anti-freeze or methylated spirits to the water during very cold weather.

It’s best to finish washing the floor after you have cleaned the windows, since water may drip onto it. However, it makes sense to vacuum beforehand.

Think about your safety

Safety comes first: use a ladder when cleaning high windows. Ensure that the ladder is in good condition, is strong and firm and securely positioned. Wear sturdy shoes. Clean as much as possible while standing on the floor to reduce the risk of accidents. A telescopic rod – if need be with an adjustable hinge – that you can mount a mop or squeegee on is helpful.

Use good tools and materials

You can use soapy water to clean your windows – washing-up liquid works just fine. One or two squirts per bucket of water is plenty. Some people swear by vinegar. Of course, you can also buy a cleaning product that is specifically designed for glass.

These tools will make window cleaning much easier:

• A soft brush to remove spiders’ webs

• Cleaning solutions

• Bucket

• Microfibre cloth or sponge for the window frames

• Sponge or cloth for the panes

• Squeegee (like you use for drying the walls of your shower)

• Lint-free cloth for wiping windows dry

• Rubber gloves to protect your hands, if necessary

Make sure you do things in the right order

Step 1: start with the window frames. If you don't clean dust off the window frames, the windows will be dirty again as soon as it rains. Remove spiders’ webs with the soft brush. Next, clean the frame with a wet cloth or sponge and don't forget the windowsill.

Step 2: change the water after cleaning the window frames. To avoid foam, put water into the bucket first and then add the cleaning solution. Dip the clean sponge or cloth into the water and clean the window pane from top to bottom.

Step 3: use the squeegee to pull the water downwards from top to bottom or from one side to the other in one smooth motion. Dry the squeegee with the cloth once you get to the bottom or edge of the window.

Step 4: finally, use the dry cloth to wipe away any streaks at the edges.

Tip: you will find plenty of explanatory videos by professionals on YouTube.

These tricks make cleaning easier

• Water often drips onto the floor when you are cleaning windows. Spread out an old sheet or some newspaper under the window. Then you won't have to clean the floor afterwards.

• Use the squeegee to pull the water downwards on the inside of the window and from left to right on the outside or vice versa. That way, you will see which parts are still dirty after the first round of cleaning.

• Some people swear by nylon stockings to wipe away the last smudges and streaks.

• A dash of car polish in the water will make raindrops roll off the window panes. Fabric conditioner produces the same results.

• Linseed oil gives a shine to dull window panes. Rub the panes sparingly with the oil, leave it for a few minutes then wipe off excess oil with kitchen paper.

• You can remove spider, fly and bird droppings easily using a ceramic hob scraper. Keep the blade flat to avoid scratches.

How much will professional help cost?

If, despite our tips and tricks, you still feel that too much work is involved, you can leave the window cleaning to a cleaning company when you move. A full clean costs around 800 to 1000 francs on average for a 3-3.5-room apartment. Book the date in good time. Cleaning companies get booked up very quickly before the standard moving dates. Ensure that the company provides a handover guarantee. That way, any necessary follow-up work will be done immediately and free of charge.