The best way to clean outside windows is to rinse off loose dirt with a hose, scrub the glass with a mild solution (a few drops of dish soap in a bucket of warm water, or 1 part vinegar to about 10 parts water), then pull a squeegee across in overlapping strokes from top to bottom, wiping the blade after each pass. Dry the edges with a microfiber cloth. For upper floors, use an extension pole from the ground instead of a ladder whenever you can.
Safety: Falls from ladders send thousands of people to the emergency room every year. Keep ladders on firm, level ground, maintain three points of contact, and never lean ladders near power lines. Hire a pro for windows you can’t reach safely from the ground.
What You Need
- Bucket of warm water with a few drops of dish soap (or a vinegar mix)
- Strip washer (scrubber sleeve) and a 12–18 in. rubber squeegee
- Extension pole for high windows
- Microfiber cloths and a garden hose
- Soft brush for screens and tracks
Step-by-Step: Clean Outside Windows
- Pick a cloudy day or work in the shade—sun dries the solution and causes streaks.
- Remove screens and brush them; wash with soapy water and let them dry.
- Rinse the glass and frames with the hose to knock off dust, pollen and cobwebs.
- Scrub the glass with the strip washer, working the edges and corners.
- Wet the top edge, then squeegee in a reverse-S pattern or straight overlapping strokes from top to bottom.
- Wipe the blade with a cloth after every stroke.
- Dry the edges and sill with a microfiber cloth and reinstall screens.
Cleaning Second-Story Windows Without a Ladder
| Method | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Extension pole + squeegee | Most upper windows | Takes practice to control |
| Hose-end window cleaner | Quick rinse of many windows | May leave spots in hard water |
| Water-fed pole (pure water) | Large homes, frequent cleaning | Higher equipment cost |
| Tilt-in sashes | Double-hung windows | Clean from inside—don’t lean out |
| Pressure washer | Generally not recommended | Can break seals and glass |
Tough Spots
- Hard water spots: apply undiluted white vinegar, let sit a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
- Sap and bird droppings: soften with warm soapy water; scrape gently with a new razor blade held at a low angle on plain glass only (not coated or tinted).
- Paint specks: razor blade with soapy water as lubricant.
DIY vs Hiring a Window Cleaner
Pros
- Saves $150–$400 per visit for an average home
- Brighter rooms and longer-lasting windows
- Most supplies are cheap and reusable
Cons
- Upper floors carry real fall risk
- Takes several hours for a whole house
- Squeegee technique takes practice
Knock down cobwebs while you’re at it—see how to keep spiders out of your house.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best solution for cleaning outside windows?
A few drops of dish soap in warm water works well on most glass. A 1:10 white vinegar and water mix helps with mineral spots.
How do pros get windows streak-free?
They use a soapy strip washer, a sharp rubber squeegee, wipe the blade after every stroke and detail the edges with a cloth.
How often should I clean exterior windows?
Twice a year—spring and fall—is typical. Homes near roads, the coast or trees may need it more often.
Can I use newspaper to clean windows?
It can work for drying, but microfiber cloths are cleaner and don’t leave ink on frames.
Is it safe to pressure wash windows?
Generally not. High pressure can damage seals, screens and glass. Use a hose and gentle scrubbing instead.
