Getting It Right: How to achieve streak-free windows using a washer and window squeegee to clean windows properly.
If you want to clean windows like a pro, you can easily get rid of dirt, tough stains, and smudges without needing lots of fancy gear or hours of work. The key is to use the right approach and technique. In this article, we’ll go over the basic tools that professional window cleaners use and the steps they follow.
If you’re using a sponge and a window squeegee to clean your windows, one of the most common methods is the “S technique.” It’s something pros do all the time, and even trainees learn it during their practice. When you do it right, it guarantees your windows will shine like new.
Six steps to streak-free window cleaning:
Step 1: Check your equipment
So that you can get started right away and avoid unplanned incidents interrupting your workflow, you should have the following materials and tools to hand:
- Bucket
- Cleaning Agent
- Sleeve & Frame (Washer)
- Window Squeegee
- Cloth for surfaces
- Microfibre cloth for glass
- Glass scraper
These are not unusual tools in the window-cleaning trade; rather they form part of every professional’s kit.
Step 2: Clean the window frame
First, fill the bucket with water and add some cleaning agent – check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dose.
Now use the microfibre surface cloth: wet it, wring it out and place it on the bottom left-hand corner of the window frame. Now thoroughly clean the frame in an inverted “U” shape.
Step 3: Wash the window pane
After cleaning the frame, plunge the sleeve (washer) completely in the water and use it to wash the window pane entirely. Use the so-called S movement.
DON’T hold the washer in the same hand that you will use to hold the squeegee, but in your other hand. This is a more ergonomic approach as it ensures an even load on your arms. Remove stubborn dirt with the scrub pad, which is included on high-quality washers.
Step 4: Remove soiling
When it comes to adhesive residue and paint stains, sometimes the washer alone isn’t enough. However, professionals can quickly remove stubborn dirt of this type by using a glass scraper. It is important that you only use the scraper where it is really necessary. Make sure that the window is wet before using the scraper – this way, the dirt will stick to it. In addition, make sure that the blade is free of rust, because rust increases the risk of scratches.
Handling the scraper correctly is important: you get the best results by moving the glass scraper in short, sickle-like movements over the soiling on the glass, applying a light pressure from top to bottom. Never use the scraper in the other direction, otherwise you may press dirt particles into the window pane and scratch the glass. You need to be very careful here to avoid damage. When you have finished with the scraper, pull the blade back into the housing or – depending on the model – put the protective flap back on, as the blade is very sharp.
Step 5: Clean the window
Now it’s time for the window squeegee. You can also use the S technique here to clean the glass. If you proceed correctly, you can safely rule out streaks and marks. Place the squeegee on the edge of the window pane, pull it up into the corner at an acute angle and then across to the other side. You should focus here on the front, protruding end of the window squeegee: if you position it correctly, the rest happens almost by itself. Throughout the cleaning process, your movements should be as fluid as possible. The corner areas usually require a bit of practice, but experience has shown that after a short time, commercial cleaners learn to use this technique safely and routinely.
Step 6: Remove water residue
Now it’s time for the finishing touches: Using the second cloth – the microfibre cloth for glass – soak up the remaining water from the top, bottom and side edges.
And there you have it! Your glass should be looking super clean now.
If you’re new to the world of cleaning, don’t worry if you notice a few streaks when you’re just starting out. It’s totally normal! Just grab your microfiber cloth, give those streaky spots a little extra attention, and you’ll see improvement over time.
Remember, practice makes perfect, and you’ll also get faster with experience. Once you get the hang of these simple window-cleaning steps, you’ll be amazed at how clear your windows will be!
Thanks to our friends over at Unger for their fantastic window cleaning guide.
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