Cleaning windows is an overlooked job but in this article we discuss the best way to clean your windows quickly and easily.

Large windows flood a home with light and make it feel inviting but rain, pollen and fine dust, however, quickly make them dirty and dull the view. On the inside, windows also have a lot to contend with; children and pets in particular often leave behind prints and blotches on the window pane. These tips will help you clean your windows without leaving behind any streaks.

Preparation is everything

In order for the windows to stay sparkling clean, several factors need to be considered.

Windows should not be cleaned in direct sunlight
The cleaning agent solution will dry on the window far too quickly and leave behind unsightly streaks and marks.
Don't use too much cleaning detergent
The old adage "less is more" applies here. If too much cleaning agent is used in the solution, a greasy film can form on the window, so use glass cleaner sparingly.
Don't forget the frames
Frames are often overlooked when cleaning windows but remember that they are exposed to the elements just like the window.
Always use the correct detergents
Often overlooked, the correct detergent is key for the very best results. Make sure that you use a specialist glass cleaner for windows (designed to dry streak free), a plastic cleaner for uPVC frames (as they contain antistatic agents to reduce dust attraction and resoiling) or a wood cleaner for wooden frames (that helps to condition and care for the wood).

Ready to clean

After following all the preparation tips above, you're now ready to clean your windows. So how is the best way to achieve this?

Clean the windows using traditional methods

Thoroughly wash the window down with a sponge or a lint-free cloth and lukewarm water with a little washing-up detergent.
Wipe down the liquid using a window squeegee in wide figure-of-eight movements from the top to the bottom and mop up any excess with a cloth.
Using a chamois leather, a microfibre cloth or tea towel, buff the window and remove the last few drops of water.
Repeat step 3 until all the smears, runs and marks are buffed out of the window
Take care on the ladder making sure that it is footed correctly and you have 3 points of contact at all times when carrying all your equipment to clean and also when cleaning

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Achieve perfect results using Karcher's Window Vac system

Spray on the Karcher Glass Cleaner Concentrated Detergents with a Karcher Premium Window Vacuum Spray Bottle Set
Loosen coarse dirt with the integrated microfibre cloth fitted to the Karcher Premium Window Vacuum Spray Bottle Set
Once cleaned, simply vacuum up any water and detergent using one of the Karcher Window Vacuum models for a streak-free and shines like new finish
If you need to clean 2nd floor or hard to reach windows, such as pitched-roof conservatories, rather than using a ladder you can use the Karcher WV Evolution Extension Set to reach windows from ground level so you can both clean the dirt and vacuum off the excess moisture