Clean windows improve curb appeal, let in more natural light, and extend the life of window components. Knowing the best time for window cleaning helps homeowners get streak-free results, avoid weather problems, and reduce the frequency of deep cleans. Timing matters: temperature, sunlight, pollen season, and nearby landscaping all affect how quickly glass soils after cleaning. This guide walks you through choosing the optimal times of year and day, preparing and cleaning windows safely, and creating a maintenance schedule. You’ll learn DIY-safe techniques, what tools and materials to use, safety precautions for ladders and high windows, and when it’s smarter to hire a professional. Follow these steps to save time, avoid damage, and keep windows clear year-round.

Key Takeaways

Mid-spring and late fall are ideal for full exterior cleaning; mild, overcast days are best for washing glass.
Avoid cleaning in direct hot sun or during heavy pollen, high winds, or freezing temperatures.
Use the right tools and a proper squeegee technique to prevent streaks and scratches.
Safety first: secure ladders, use fall protection for high windows, and avoid risky DIY on multi-story homes.
Call a pro for hard-to-reach, high, or fragile windows, or if you need specialized coatings cleaned.

Tools Needed

Sturdy ladder with stabilizer (for single-story and accessible second-story jobs)
Extension pole with squeegee and scrubber
Microfiber cloths and lint-free towels
Bucket with grit guard
Soft-bristle brush or handheld vacuum for sills and tracks
Rubber gloves and safety glasses
Optional: harness or fall-arrest system for higher work

Materials Needed

pH-neutral window cleaning solution (commercial or DIY mix of water and a small amount of dish soap or vinegar)
Distilled water for final rinse if you have hard water
Masking tape (to temporarily protect seals) and painter’s towel to catch drips
Replacement squeegee blades if the current blade is nicked
Plastic scraper for paint or stubborn debris (use carefully)

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Never overreach on a ladder; move the ladder so your hips stay between the rails.
Avoid cleaning exterior windows in high winds, icy conditions, or during lightning storms.
Use fall protection for work above single-story height or hire a professional for multi-story windows.
Keep electrical lines and outdoor outlets in mind — avoid water spray near electrical hazards.
Test any cleaning solution on a small corner first to avoid damage to coatings or seals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Choose the Best Time and Weather

Pick a day with mild temperatures (45–75°F / 7–24°C) and light cloud cover. Direct strong sunlight heats glass and causes cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leaving streaks and soap residue. Avoid days right after heavy pollen release, prolonged rain, or high winds because those conditions make windows dirty faster or present safety risks. For seasonal timing, plan a comprehensive exterior clean in mid-to-late spring after pollen season and again in late fall to remove summer grime before winter. Interior cleaning can be done any time but avoid cooking or laundry days when steam and grease settle on freshly cleaned glass.

💡 Tip: Check the forecast for wind and pollen counts; target a calm, overcast morning for best results.

Step 2: Inspect Windows and Surroundings

Walk around the home and inspect each window for frame damage, cracked glass, loose seals, or existing coatings (low-E, tinted). Note screens, plants, gutters, and decorations that affect access. Clear away loose debris from sills and trim to prevent it blowing onto wet glass. Identify very high, fragile, or stained panes that may need special care or professional cleaning. Look for hardware that sticks or gaps where water could leak into the wall during exterior cleaning. This inspection informs your cleaning plan, helps you bring appropriate tools, and flags anything requiring repairs before heavy washing.

💡 Tip: Take photos of troublesome windows so you can consult a professional if needed.

Step 3: Gather Tools and Set Up Safely

Assemble your ladder, extension pole, squeegee, scrubber, bucket, and cleaning solution. Position ladders on level ground and use a stabilizer or have a helper hold the base. For second-story or higher work, use an extension pole from the ground when possible rather than climbing. If you must climb, wear non-slip footwear and avoid reaching beyond the ladder rail. Place a drop cloth or painter’s towel under the work area to catch drips and protect landscaping. Ensure your phone and emergency contact are accessible, and never work alone on ladders above a safe height without someone nearby to assist.

💡 Tip: Clip a small rinse bottle to the ladder for quick rinses of the squeegee blade to remove grit.

⚠️ Do not attempt multi-story exterior cleaning without proper fall protection or professional help.

Step 4: Remove Dust, Cobwebs, and Loose Debris

Before applying liquid cleaner, brush off loose dirt, cobwebs, and insect nests from frames, screens, and sills using a soft-bristle brush or handheld vacuum. Remove screens and shake or hose them off; let them dry flat. Clean tracks and weep holes of accumulated debris to ensure windows operate and drain properly. This pre-cleaning prevents grit from scratching glass during washing and reduces the amount of solution needed. For exterior sills, use a putty knife or plastic scraper to dislodge hardened grime, being careful not to gouge wood or vinyl.

💡 Tip: Work top-to-bottom so dust falls to areas you’ll clean later, keeping finished panes pristine.

Step 5: Wash Frames, Sills, and Screens First

Mix a mild cleaning solution in a bucket and start by washing frames, sills, and screens. Use a soft scrubber to remove dirt from frames and a separate cloth for sills so you don’t transfer grime to the glass. Rinse screens thoroughly and set them aside to drain. Wipe sills and frames dry to prevent streaks and rot. Cleaning frames first prevents drips from dirty trim landing on freshly cleaned glass. If frames are painted or have sensitive finishes, test the solution in a small spot or use a milder mix to avoid damage.

💡 Tip: Use distilled water for the final rinse if your tap water is hard to reduce mineral spots.

Step 6: Clean the Glass Using a Squeegee Technique

Apply soapy solution with the scrubber or a soft cloth, working in a horizontal or vertical pattern to loosen grime. Starting from the top corner, drag the squeegee across the glass with firm, even pressure. After each pass, wipe the squeegee blade with a clean microfiber cloth to avoid reintroducing dirt. Overlap strokes slightly to prevent missed spots. For edges and corners, use a lint-free towel to remove remaining water and prevent drip marks. Finish by buffing with a dry microfiber cloth if needed. Use short, controlled strokes on large panes to maintain control and avoid streaking.

💡 Tip: A 12–14 inch squeegee works well for most residential windows; replace the rubber blade yearly or when nicked.

⚠️ Be cautious on ladders—maintain three points of contact and avoid leaning to reach corners.

Step 7: Final Touches and Set a Maintenance Schedule

Reinstall dry screens and clean up drips left on frames and landscaping. Walk around and view windows from different angles to catch streaks or missed spots; use a microfiber cloth for final touch-ups. Note problem windows for future attention—hard water stains, pits, or seal failure might need specialized treatments. Create a maintenance schedule: interior cleaning every 1–3 months, exterior spot cleaning as needed, and major exterior washes twice a year (spring and fall) for most climates. Adjust frequency if you live near the coast, in heavy-pollen areas, or under large trees.

💡 Tip: Record dates and notes after each clean to track what works and when to schedule the next one.

When to Call a Professional

Hire a professional if windows are over two stories high, difficult to access from the ground, or if you lack safe ladder options. Professionals have specialized equipment (telescoping water-fed poles, lifts, and fall protection) and techniques for high, angled, or fragile windows. They also handle issues like hard water scale, persistent mineral deposits, or old putty that require specialized solvents and methods. Call a pro when windows have damage such as failing seals, deep scratches, or glass pitting—these may need repair or replacement rather than cleaning. Also consider professionals for valuable or historic windows, specialty coatings (low-E or decorative films), or when you prefer a fast, guaranteed result without DIY risk. Request references, proof of insurance, and a clear quote before hiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the worst time to clean windows?

The worst times are hot, sunny days and during active pollen season. Direct sun causes cleaning solution to evaporate quickly, leaving streaks. Heavy pollen, rain, high winds, or freezing temperatures also produce poor results or unsafe working conditions, so avoid those times.

How often should I clean my windows?

For most homes, interior windows benefit from cleaning every 1–3 months. Exterior windows typically need a thorough wash twice a year—mid-spring and late fall. Homes near the coast, under trees, or in dusty areas may require more frequent exterior cleaning.

Can I use vinegar to clean windows?

A diluted vinegar solution (about 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water) works well for glass and removes mineral deposits. Avoid vinegar on certain coatings or sealed frames—test first in a discrete spot. Use pH-neutral cleaners for painted or delicate finishes.

How do I avoid streaks when cleaning glass?

Work on overcast days, use a clean squeegee and microfiber cloths, wipe the squeegee blade between passes, and use distilled water for the final rinse if you have hard water. Proper squeegee technique—consistent pressure and overlapping strokes—reduces streaks.

Best Time For Window Cleaning