Useful Tips for Cleaning Windows in the Winter

Cleaning the windows is rarely any homeowner’s favorite chore, but washing windows in cold weather makes it an even less enjoyable task. It’s tempting to think that you can skip maintaining your windows until it’s time to start spring cleaning, but dirt and grime don’t stop just because it’s cold outside. Melting snow can be a magnet for debris, and ice-melting salt may become a serious problem if caught in your window’s tracks. Window cleaning needs to stay on your to-do list, no matter the weather.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make washing windows in cold weather a little less unpleasant. Read on to explore our top tips for cleaning windows in the winter!

How to Wash Windows in Cold Weather

At FISH Window Cleaning, our window pros are ready to clean your windows when the weather is cold, hot, or anything in between. To make your next window washing day as easy as can be, here are some of the best practices we follow when washing windows in cold weather.

1. Clean in Smaller Sections

During the winter, water freezes much quicker. What you might not realize is that many store-bought window cleaning solutions do, too. Although this is particularly true for larger windows, spraying down an entire window of any size may mean parts of it will freeze before you can wipe it. By working in smaller sections — for example, one pane at a time — you’ll be better able to clean and dry that part before the cleaning solution starts to freeze. As an added benefit, this also helps to prevent streaking!

2. Keep Towels at the Ready

When cleaning windows in the winter, you’ll want to work faster than you might in milder temperatures. Whatever your preferred window cleaning tool, from squeegees to microfiber cloths, be sure to have extra towels on hand so that you can dry the windows quickly.

3. Take Time for Proper Preparation

It’s no secret that the toughest part of cleaning windows at any time of year is getting up on a ladder. Before washing windows in cold weather, it’s even more important to ensure that your ladder is safe and secure. When setting up your ladder, make sure that the rungs are dry and free of ice buildup. You’ll also want to check the ground for any ice, snow, or debris that could cause the ladder to slip while you’re on it.

4. Dress for the Weather

Most of our technicians will tell you that cold hands can be the most uncomfortable part of cleaning windows in the winter. Thanks to the liquid cleaning solution, window washing is wet work. During the winter, weather-appropriate work gloves are a must. You’ll also want to be sure you’re wearing proper outerwear for the conditions in your area, like a waterproof coat and insulated boots. 

5. Check the Forecast First

Whenever possible, plan to clean your windows during the warmest part of the day. This will usually be late morning to early afternoon. If you can move your cleaning plans to a day that’s warmer altogether, we highly recommend it!

6. Call the Professionals

Our best tip? Have a professional crew clean your windows. Not only will the results be better, it’s also a much safer choice. Window cleaning can be dangerous in perfect weather if you don’t have the right experience and tools. Weather conditions, carrying extra supplies, and wearing extra clothes make it even easier for accidents to happen. The professional window cleaning experts at FISH Window Cleaning know what it takes to clean windows safely and efficiently in any weather conditions.

Choose FISH Window Cleaning

At FISH, we’ve been providing home and business owners nationwide with the streak-free windows they deserve for over 45 years. Our licensed, bonded, and insured experts deliver the highest level of workmanship and customer service. And with nearly 300 locations nationwide, there’s bound to be a FISH crew in your community!

Cleaning windows in the winter is simple and stress-free with FISH Window Cleaning on your side. Get started today when you request a free estimate!