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Prime Shine Exterior Home Maintenance

Pro Tip: Using Dish Soap to Wash Windows

Washing windows can seem like a daunting task, but you don't need expensive cleaners to achieve sparkling results. Dish soap, which is probably already in your kitchen, offers an inexpensive and effective solution for cleaning windows. Here’s how to get your windows crystal clear with just a few basic ingredients and some tried-and-true methods.

washing windows with dish soap

Why Dish Soap to Wash Windows?

Dish soap is formulated to cut through grease and grime on dishes, making it perfect for tackling the dirt and smudges that accumulate on windows. It’s gentle enough not to damage the glass or frame materials, but powerful enough to dissolve oils, fingerprints, and environmental buildup.


Supplies You’ll Need

  • Dish soap (just a few drops will do)

  • A bucket of warm water

  • A microfiber cloth or sponge

  • A squeegee

  • A dry, lint-free cloth or paper towels

  • Optional: vinegar for extra shine


Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Avoid over-soaping, as too much will leave streaks on your windows. If you want an extra shine, add a splash of vinegar to the mixture.

  2. Remove Excess Dirt and Dust: Before applying any solution, wipe down the window with a dry microfiber cloth or a duster. Removing loose dirt helps prevent scratching the glass during washing.

  3. Apply the Solution: Dip a sponge or microfiber cloth into the soapy water. Wring it out slightly, and apply the solution to the window. Wipe in a circular motion to ensure full coverage, paying extra attention to any stubborn spots.

  4. Squeegee Off the Water: Starting from the top of the window, use a squeegee to pull the soapy water down the glass in a straight line. After each swipe, wipe the squeegee blade with a lint-free cloth to prevent streaks. Repeat until the entire window has been cleared of soapy water.

  5. Buff with a Lint-Free Cloth: Use a dry, lint-free cloth or a paper towel to buff out any remaining water spots or streaks. For an extra shine, spray a little vinegar solution and give the window a final polish.


Tips for a Streak-Free Shine

  • Use Warm, Not Hot Water: Hot water can cause the soap to dry too quickly, leaving streaks.

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Wash windows on a cloudy day or when the window is shaded. Direct sunlight can cause the soapy water to dry too fast, resulting in streaks.

  • Change Your Water: If you’re cleaning multiple windows, the water will get dirty. Replace it when you notice it becoming murky for consistently clear results.


Why It Works

Dish soap is designed to break down oils and grease, which is why it’s so effective for washing windows. The gentle, non-abrasive formula makes it safe for glass, while its ability to dissolve grime leaves windows sparkling. Adding vinegar boosts its cleaning power and gives an additional shine.


When to Hire a Professional

While dish soap is effective for everyday cleaning, certain situations call for professional help, especially with exterior windows that are hard to reach. Here’s when to consider a pro:

  • Hard-to-Reach Windows: Professional window cleaners have the right tools, such as telescoping poles, ladders, and harnesses, to clean high or awkwardly placed windows safely.

  • Heavy Grime or Hard Water Stains: Professionals use specialized solutions and techniques to remove tough stains, such as mineral deposits or hardened dirt, which can be difficult to address with dish soap alone.

  • Consistent Results: If you prefer a perfect finish without the hassle, a professional cleaner has the skills to deliver streak-free, sparkling results.

  • Safety: For multi-story homes or windows requiring ladders, hiring a professional prevents the risk of accidents, which can occur when cleaning high-up or difficult-to-access windows.


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