How to Clean Exterior Windows & Ensure They Stay Clean Longer

TL;DR:

Want to know how to clean exterior windows and keep them sparkling longer? This blog walks you through simple steps for effective window washing and long-term protection.

• Learn what to use to clean exterior windows, including tools and cleaning solution options.
• Discover the best way to wash your windows for a streak-free finish.
• Find tips on how to reduce buildup from dirt, rain, and environmental grime.
• Explore the benefits of using a protective glass coating to keep exterior windows cleaner for longer.

Bonus tip: Apply a protective coating to cut down on future cleaning time!

 

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When your exterior windows sparkle, your whole home looks brighter and more welcoming. But cleaning windows—especially the ones outside—can feel like a never-ending task. Dust, water spots, bird droppings, and pollen seem to reappear just days after you’ve cleaned them.

If you’re wondering how to clean exterior windows effectively and keep them that way, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through the best way to clean exterior windows and offers tips to make that streak-free shine last longer.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time and Tools

Washing exterior windows on a hot, sunny day may seem ideal, but it can actually make your job harder. The sun dries your cleaning solution too quickly, which can leave streaks and spots.

Instead, pick a cloudy day or wait until early morning or late afternoon when your windows are shaded.

What to use to clean exterior windows:

• A bucket of warm water
• Mild dish soap or a dedicated glass cleaner
• A squeegee
• Microfiber cloths
• A soft-bristle brush (for screens and frames)
• An extension pole (for hard-to-reach exterior windows)

Step 2: Prep Your Windows

Before applying any cleaning solution, rinse your windows with water to remove loose dirt and debris. This helps avoid scratches on the glass surface.

If your screens are dirty, remove them and gently scrub with a soft brush and soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let them air dry.

Step 3: Apply a Cleaning Solution

Now it’s time to clean exterior windows using your favorite glass cleaner or a simple homemade mixture of water and dish soap.

Dip your sponge or microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution and scrub the window in circular motions. Pay special attention to corners and any buildup from mineral deposits or dried rainwater.

For second-story windows, attach your sponge or cloth to an extension pole, or consider using a hose attachment with a built-in soap dispenser.

Step 4: Rinse and Squeegee for a Streak Free Finish

Once your windows are scrubbed, rinse them with clean water. Then, use a squeegee to remove excess water and leave behind a streak free finish.

Start at the top and pull the squeegee down in straight vertical strokes, wiping the blade with a clean cloth between each pass.

If you don’t have a squeegee, a lint-free microfiber cloth will work—just make sure to dry the window thoroughly.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Frames

As you wash your windows, take time to wipe down the window frames and sills. Dust and grime can collect here and blow back onto the glass. Use the same cleaning solution or a gentle all-purpose cleaner, then dry thoroughly.

How to Keep Exterior Windows Cleaner for Longer

Now that your windows are crystal clear, let’s talk about how to keep them that way. Here’s what you can do to maintain that just-cleaned look:

1. Use a Protective Coating

Applying a hydrophobic coating to your windows is one of the most effective ways to repel water, dust, and grime. These treatments, such as Clear Fusion V, form an invisible barrier over your glass surface, making it harder for contaminants to stick—and far easier to wipe away when they do.

When professionally applied or sprayed on yourself, a window coating can dramatically reduce the frequency of your window cleaning routine. You’ll enjoy clearer glass and less effort.

2. Clean Windows Twice a Year (or More)

Even with a protective coating, you should plan to clean house windows at least twice a year—spring and fall are ideal. If you live in an area with heavy pollen, frequent rain, or lots of dust, you may need to clean them more often.

3. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs

Overhanging branches drop leaves and sap onto your exterior windows. Trimming them back will reduce the debris and dirt that settles on your glass.

4. Keep Gutters Clear

Clogged gutters can splash dirty water onto your windows. Clean your gutters regularly to prevent this kind of splash-back.

The Bottom Line on Cleaning Interior Windows

Learning how to clean exterior windows the right way means fewer streaks, longer-lasting results, and a more beautiful home. From using the proper cleaning solution and tools to rinsing properly and finishing with a squeegee, these steps will help you achieve that sought-after shine.

But if you want to spend less time cleaning in the future, a protective coating makes all the difference. It’s the best-kept secret behind windows that stay cleaner, longer—with much less effort.

Want to make your clean windows last?

Browse our selection of advanced protective coatings designed specifically for exterior windows. They help repel water, reduce buildup, and make your next window cleaning session easier than ever.