How to Keep Windows Clean: 4 Maintenance Tips

Maintaining a home often may feel like a never-ending list of out-of-sight, out-of-mind tasks, like window cleaning. A house with mud caked on the window sill may keep you from enjoying fresh air through an open window. A streaky window makes your home look uncared for and make it difficult to see out of the window.

You value clean windows because they enhance both the appearance and functionality of your home. It’s frustrating when you take the time to clean your windows, only to find them dirty again sooner rather than later.

If you want to know how to keep windows clean, the following tips are for you. Let’s dive in!

Why Do Windows Get Dirty So Fast?

It seems unbelievable that you could clean your windows one day and not long after, you find streaks or dirt. There are so many reasons why your windows could quickly collect dust, dirt, or grime both inside and outside.

Dirty Exterior Windows

Bugs, Dirt, and Pollen

Your windows, especially the exterior, are constantly exposed to the elements. Airborne contaminants like bugs, pollen, dirt, and debris are carried by the wind and can quickly settle on your windows. Learning how to keep outside windows clean may be a matter of understanding your living environment. If your home is located near a busy road or construction site, the constant movement of vehicles stirs up dirt and dust.

Mineral Buildup in Water

When cleaning your windows, it's easy to reach for the hose or use tap water for a simple rinse. However, this can leave behind more than just a clean surface.

Both hose and tap water contain minerals and sediments, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals are invisible when wet but become noticeable water spots as the water dries. Over time, deposits can build up, making the glass look cloudy and reducing its clarity. Knowing how to keep outside windows clean involves understanding these common issues.

Interior Windows

Kitchen Grease and Steam

When cooking, especially frying or boiling, the heat generates steam mixed with grease particles that float through the air. This mixture can easily settle on nearby windows, creating a thin, sticky film that attracts dust and dirt. Over time, this buildup can cause windows to look foggy and feel greasy to the touch, detracting from their clarity.

Pet and Handprint Residue

Curious about the outside world, dogs and cats often press their noses against the glass, leaving behind slobber and nose prints that dry into visible marks.

Children, too, frequently touch windows with their hands, leaving behind fingerprints and smudges. These marks are not just surface level; they often contain natural oils from the skin that can create a greasy residue on the glass.

4 Tips for Keeping Windows Clean After Professional Service

1. Use of Screens as Protection

Invest in strong window screens to protect your window panes from dust and dirt. However, as window screens catch dust, bugs, and dirt before they can stick to your glass, you must also regularly clean them. During a rainstorm, a dirty window screen can easily transfer the collected grime to your window, making it dirty.

2. Regular Cleaning Schedule

One of the best ways to learn how to keep your windows clean is by scheduling regular cleanings. Having your windows cleaned at least once a month can prevent build-up and keep them streak-free. Consistent maintenance can also help avoid long-term buildup which will make cleaning faster and save you money.

3. Proper Cleaning Products

Protect your windows from cleaning solutions that leave behind a residue after cleaning. Natural glass cleaners, like vinegar or lemon juice, can help remove water spots. These are perfect for spot checks in between scheduled window cleanings.

Many inexpensive store-bought glass cleaners could cause streaking. Be mindful that your cleaning solution may not be protecting your windows from contaminants. The proper tools, such as microfiber cloths and soft squeegees, also minimize streaking and dirt left behind.

4. Seasonal Considerations

You may need to increase your window cleaning during pollen season or if the fall leaves are brushing up against your window panes. It’s well-known in the window cleaning community that cleaning is easier on cloudy days rather than when the sun has the chance to dry the cleaning solution before it can be wiped away.

Find Fish Window Cleaning Near You

Want to know how to keep your windows clean? Call Fish Window Cleaning near you today! Our professional team is dedicated to keeping your windows clean longer. No matter how big the job or what time of year it is, FISH delivers expert-level care with our residential window cleaning services.

Contact us to schedule your professional window cleaning and enjoy spotless windows year-round! Request more information today.