Cleaning Windows: The Window Cleaning Equipment You'll Need to Shine

It's quite possible that you cringe when thinking about cleaning windows. The old adage "I don't do windows" might even come to mind. But the truth is that windows need seasonal cleaning to keep them looking fresh and working properly.

Cleaning windows might be a chore, but it's not that bad if you know what you're doing and have the proper window cleaning equipment and supplies on-hand. There's nothing worse than having to "make do" with a mismatched set of sponges and solutions. Here's what you'll need and how you'll use it to bring that sparkle back.

The Window Cleaning Supplies Checklist

A quick visit to any grocery store or home supply warehouse might intimidate you with the sheer volume of window cleaning supplies available. New formulas and new-fangled equipment cry out for your attention--and your dollars. The truth is that cleaning windows requires very few supplies. Here's what you'll need:

• A durable, mid-sized squeegee
• Several soft rags
• A premixed cleaning solution, store-bought or homemade
• Toothpaste and brush or cotton swabs
• Crumpled newspaper

Cleaning Windows: The Process Simplified

As simple as cleaning windows may sound, doing it right requires following several steps, each with its own purpose.

• Use the cleaning solution, soft rags and squeegee to clean the window surface using horizontal or vertical strokes.
• Use the toothpaste and toothbrush for small scratches.
• Use the cotton swabs to remove grit and grime from window pane corners.
• Finish with crumpled newspaper to increase the shine and leave a protective film.

You can even go "green" with your window cleaning efforts by employing a homemade cleaning solution based on a vinegar mixture.