The Secret to Cleaning Windows

Now that it is getting pretty outside, I want to be able to look out of the windows. This means that it is time to clean the cat’s nose prints off of the windows and the dirt out of the sills. What’s the secret to cleaning windows? Keep reading to find out!

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Mom, What’s the Secret to Cleaning Windows?

When we first moved into our house, the windows looked as if they hadn’t been cleaned in years. I got right to work scrubbing and washing. Several hours and rolls of paper towels later, they looked better except for the edges. The window sills still had what can only be described as mud stuck in the crevices.

I tried several Pinterest tricks to clean the windows. I wound up with a huge mess and still muddy window sills. So I did what any newly wed would do, I called my mom. She told me the secret weapon that was sure to get my windows clean.

I now use her secret weapon for cleaning windows every spring. It never fails and always leaves the sills looking lovely. As a bonus, it is all natural and is safe around pets. This is super important at our house because if the windows are open you’re guaranteed to find a cat in one.

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The Secret to Cleaning Windows

My mom advised me to go get some white vinegar and a toothbrush. That was the secret to cleaning windows? Yes, and yes it was that simple. After a quick run to Dollar General, the only store we have close, I got after the windows with my new cleaning toothbrush and a bottle of white vinegar. To my surprise it worked wonders! The secret to cleaning all of the nooks and crannies in the window was a toothbrush. Moms always know best.

How to Clean Windows

Grab your favorite glass cleaner. I like to make my own DIY glass cleaner using this recipe! Spray down the inside window panes and wipe with a paper towel or lint-free rag. Then open the window and clean the inside pane, if your windows have one.

While the windows are open it’s now time to clean out the window sill. If it is super grimy, like my was when I first moved in, then use a shop vac to vacuum out the sill first. When you can’t get any more gunk out with the vacuum, it’s time to bring out the all purpose cleaner and rags. Liberally spray down the window sill and wipe it out with a rag. Repeat this several times, until the dirt stops coming off.

Now it’s time for the secret weapon. Grab a cleaning toothbrush and some vinegar. Pour the vinegar into the sill. If you prefer, you can put it in a spray bottle and spray it instead. Now use your toothbrush to scrub out those nooks and crannies. Wipe away the dirt you scrub out with a rag or paper towel. Keep a small up of water or vinegar nearby to rinse your toothbrush. It will get muddy! If the screen needs a little scrub you can do that with your toothbrush.

Close your window and head outside with your glass cleaner. Clean the outside of the window panes. Now you’re done! Put the screen and inner pane back in their proper positions and enjoy the view from your very clean window!

Tips to Clean Windows

To get a streak free window, wipe down the window with a dry paper towel after the initial wipe down. Spray. Wipe. Dry wipe. Also work in circular motions, like waxing a car.

Some people swear by using newspapers to clean the windows. We don’t get the newspaper, so I can’t support the claims with personal experience.

Do this on a day, when the weather is nice, seeing as your windows will be open for a little while.

Keep a trash can or container nearby to throw the paper towels or rags into when you’re done. This will keep the mud and dead bugs off your furniture and floor.

If the window sill is really dirty, sprinkle with baking soda before you pour in the vinegar.