Tips for a clear view

Opinions on the best way to wash windows can sometimes vary widely. Just stick with your favourite method. Even so, a few tips can't hurt.

Basic rules: how the pros do it

Professionals swear by the following window cleaning agent: lukewarm water with a bit of detergent, a little vinegar and salt as well as a small capful of ammonia or denatured alcohol. Clean the panes with this mixture and rub them with old newspaper or a microfibre cloth. Work on one side of the pane from top to bottom, on the other side from right to left. In this way you'll soon see on which side there are still streaks (or dirty spots).

Washing special types of windows

For cleaning frosted glass, it's best to use hot water with some vinegar. Afterwards, wipe them well until dry. When washing slanted windows (such as skylights), it's best to lather them up with soap (or just spray them with some kitchen washing-up liquid) before a strong rainstorm and then let the rain do all the work.

Cleaning window frames

You can easily get window frames made of plastic and wood clean without any problem using slightly soapy water. After cleaning wooden frames, be sure to treat them with wax (e.g. furniture wax).

Special weather tips

Never wash your windows if the sun is shining directly on them. The heat will make them dry off too quickly, and the result is streaks or a bluish sheen. And here's a tip for wintertime: mix a bit of denatured alcohol with glycerine and rub this on the windows after washing them. Then they won't fog up any more.

When washing them, use either soft chamois or a microfibre cloth.