How to Get Spot-Free Outside Windows

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Things You'll Need

  • Bucket

  • Water

  • Ammonia

  • Spoon

  • Window wand

  • Extension handle (optional)

  • Squeegee

  • Paper towels

  • Liquid dish soap (optional)

Spot-free windows require the right cleaner.

Getting spot-free window glass is the goal of many homeowners, but traditional cleaners often leave streaks and spots. This is especially true on exterior window glass, which is often not within easy reach. The key to getting spot-free outside windows is to use the proper cleaner, which you can make yourself. Using the proper tools is also critical and makes it possible to reach all of the glass without missing any areas.

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Step 1

Fill a large bucket with 2 gallons of water and add 1 tsp. of ammonia into a large bucket. Stir the solution up well with a spoon to combine. It's best to mix the solution outdoors since the ammonia creates fumes.

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Step 2

Insert a window wand into the mixture and tap it to drain off most of the water. If the outside windows you are cleaning are high, screw an extension handle onto the wand before wetting it.

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Step 3

Raise the wand to the window and place it in the center. Rub the entire window gently with the wand to loosen the surface stains.

Step 4

Dip the wand in the cleaning solution again to rinse it. Scrub the outside window once more, this time concentrating on any stubborn stains. Continue until the wand flows smoothly over the glass and no visible dirt remains.

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Step 5

Rinse the wand again and then scrub around the frame of the window to remove any dirt from it as well.

Step 6

Dip the squeegee into the cleaning solution, which lubricates it. Raise the squeegee to the top of the glass and position it on the left top side. Tilt it out and to the side slightly so that only 1 inch of the rubber blade touches the glass. Pull the squeegee across the top of the glass until reaching the other side. This prevents drips during the remainder of the cleaning process.

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Step 7

Wipe the blade on a paper towel to remove debris and then rinse it in the cleaning solution.

Step 8

Place the squeegee at the top left of the window and pull it down until you reach 3 inches from the bottom. Remove the squeegee, wipe the blade on a paper towel and then rinse it in the cleaning solution.

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Step 9

Repeat the process until you have squeegeed the entire outside window.

Step 10

Tilt the squeegee at a sideways angle and run it across the lower 3 inches of the window for the final swipe.

Tip

Instead of ammonia, you can use five drops of a liquid dish soap in the water.

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