It can be challenging to maintain the cleanliness of your glass windows, especially with the frequent rains, humidity, and other external factors. All these can quickly make our windows dirty. So, the question remains, “How do I effectively clean glass windows and maintain their shine?”
Let’s answer that question in this simple guide on how to clean glass windows.
Why do clean windows matter?
Before we start cleaning, it helps to know why clean windows are important. Regular cleaning brings many benefits you might not expect.
The health benefits
When you clean your windows, the indoor air quality, or IAQ, improves. Window cleaning removes dust, pollen, mould spores and other pollutants that settle on your windows and sills.
Cleaning the glass and frames also prevents the buildup and spread of mould. If the windows are neglected, the accumulated mould can exacerbate asthma and cause respiratory irritation.
Natural sunlight that passes through clean windows can help brighten your space and boost your mood. When the windows are dirty, they block some of that light and make interiors feel dull.
Home value
Clean windows may not directly increase your home’s price, but they do make your home look well-kept and bright. This leaves a better impression if you are showing your house to potential buyers.
On a more practical level, regular window cleaning preserves the integrity of the windows. Repairs won’t be needed, thereby maintaining property value over time.
Energy efficiency
When your windows are dirty, less sunlight can get inside. Meaning, your space is much darker than it would be with clean windows. You will need to turn on more lights during the day.
If the windows are clean, more sunlight comes in. You won’t need to use as many lights, and you will save energy and money on your electric bill.
How Often Should You Clean Your Windows in Singapore?
The typical recommendation is to clean interior windows once a week or fortnightly every two to three months, but this frequency depends on your surroundings and building type.
Take a look at the table guide below.
| Type of Window | Standard Frequency | Notes |
| Interior glass | Weekly to fortnightly | Wipe off fingerprints, dust and film buildup from air conditioning or cooking |
| Exterior glass | Every two to three months | Doing this prevents the buildup of dust, mould and water stains caused by humidity and rain |
| Professional HDB window cleaning | Every three to four months | Recommended to remove pollutants and grime |
| General residential homes | Every six months | Acceptable if not exposed to pollution or construction dust |
Factors Affecting the Frequency of Cleaning
- Frequent rainfall and condensation – causes water stains and mould growth
- Homes near main roads, MRT tracks or industrial areas – dust, smoke and grime accumulate faster
- Ongoing or nearby construction – in these cases, monthly cleaning may be what you need
- Proximity to the coast – salt and moisture can corrode window frames and leave residue on glass surfaces
- High-rise exposure – winds carry fine dust and pollutants that attach to glass surfaces especially during haze seasons
Essential Tools and Materials
The effectiveness of window cleaning starts with having the right materials and equipment to use. Let’s discuss them one by one so you won’t miss any.
Squeegee (Rubber Blade Wiper)
Use this to remove water and dirt from your glass windows without worrying about leaving streaks.
Its flexible rubber blade glides across the window and wipes away the cleaning solution and debris.
Microfibre Cloths
These are effective due to their thin fibres being able to trap dirt and liquid, without the fear of scratching the glass surface.
Their reusability makes them eco-friendly and cost-effective at the same time.
Window Washer or T-Bar Applicator
This is used for lathering cleaning solution evenly across large glass panes.
A window washer applies the cleaning solution to the window surface to loosen dirt and grime. Some window washers have a built-in scrub pad to tackle tougher window spots.
Telescopic Pole
Use a telescopic pole to reach high or hard-to-reach windows from the ground. This is a safer and more efficient method compared to using ladders/scaffolding.
You can attach a squeegee or a scrubber to the pole and clean your windows at height.
Bucket with Divider or Sieve
Invest in a window cleaning bucket, so you can carry an optimal amount of the solution and water, separately.
Plus if your bucket is large enough, it can accommodate your scrubber.
Scraper with Replaceable Blades
Use it to remove stubborn or stuck-on debris like paint, tape and adhesive from windows that a squeegee or cleaning solution cannot handle.
The replaceable blade ensures that the scraper has a sharp edge every time you need to use it. This tool remains effective over time.
Handheld Window Vac or Cordless Cleaner
A window vac vacuums excess water and cleaning solution from your windows. It is usually used in combination with a squeegee to remove all moisture.
Soft Bristle Brush or Duster
A soft bristle brush lets you easily remove cobwebs, dust and loose debris from window frames, grilles, and ledges before you begin with window cleaning.
Spray Bottle
Spray bottles can be useful for applying cleaning solutions. You can opt for adjustable spray heads if there’s a need for target application.
Step Stool or Foldable Ladder (Non-Slip Base)
This is a must-have to safely access mid-height windows.
Pre-Cleaning Preparation
Whether you’ll do the window cleaning yourself or engage the service of professional cleaners, it’s important to prepare the space for the cleaning to be both efficient and effective.
Clear Window Areas
Remove anything near or on window sills that can slow down the cleaning. Examples are furniture, plants, and decor items.
For tight spaces, shift bulky items like fans and sofas at least one metre away from the windows.
If cleaning is outdoors or on high floors, make sure that access to the balcony or corridor is unobstructed so there’s space for ladder/pole use.
Protect Interiors
Lay down microfibre drop cloths or old towels below your windows to catch water drips.
Use plastic or waterproof covers in covering nearby electrical outlets, furniture and fabric curtains.
If possible, remove curtains/drapes. But if it is not possible, secure them using clips.
Pre-Dust and Vacuum
Before doing any wet cleaning, ensure you have dusted window frames, grilles and tracks.
Use a soft brush or small vacuum nozzle to remove the cobwebs, pet hair and loose debris from corners and ledges.
Prepare Cleaning Essentials
If you are doing the cleaning yourself, you can use streak-free commercial cleaners. Have squeegees, microfibre cloths and spray bottles ready.
Just make sure you avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia-based cleaners as they can be harmful when inhaled.
If you have booked professional cleaners, confirm access points, the cleaning scope and the time needed. Discuss with them if they will also cleaning window frames, grilles, and high panes.
Ask about add-on services like ceiling fans and light fixtures since crews often bring tall ladders and poles.
Manage Household Members and Pets
Inform your family about the cleaning schedule so they are aware of what areas they need to avoid for the time being.
Also secure your pets during cleaning to avoid accidents.
Safety Considerations for High-Rise or HDB Homes
Never lean out of your window or use unstable ladders when doing exterior cleaning.
Verify that the professional cleaners you work with comply with Ministry of Manpower’s Work-at-Height safety guidelines.
How to Clean Glass Windows Without Streaks
#1 – Choose the Right Weather
Pick early mornings, late afternoons or cloudy days. Sunny afternoons are no-go because cleaning solutions dry too fast and cause streaks.
#2 – Clear, Pre-Dust and Prepare the Space
Follow our pre-cleaning preparation guide above.
#3 – Clean Window Tracks and Frames
Mix dish soap and water and use this solution to wipe the frames and sills. Rinse with clean water and dry.
#4 – Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Decide between a commercial glass cleaner or a homemade one. Use a spray bottle to apply the solution easily.
#5 – Wash the Glass Surface
Spray the cleaning solution directly onto the glass, or onto a cloth to protect window frames.
Start from the top and work downward in overlapping strokes.
#6 – Squeegee
Use a squeegee to wipe the windows clean in an “S” or “Z” pattern, starting at the top left corner and moving side to side.
#7 – Wipe and Polish the Edges
After squeegeeing, use a dry microfibre cloth to polish edges and catch any remaining drips.
#8 – Clean the Window Screens (If Any)
Take out insect screens, wash with a mild detergent solution, rinse with clean water, and let them air-dry before putting back.
#9 – Inspect for Streaks and Touch Up
View windows from different angles to look for streaks or residue. Re-wipe wherever needed.
Time-Saving Methods for Busy Homeowners
Window Vac
A window vacuum uses an integrated suction function that vacuums dirty water off glass immediately after wiping. No streaks, no drips, and no need for multiple drying steps.
The use of a window vac can be for busy homeowners who clean windows every month or two and want minimal setup and drying time.
Steam Cleaner
Steam cleaners release micro dry steam at high temperatures to loosen dirt, grease and limescale. The ‘micro dry’ feature ensures that the glass dries rapidly without streaks or water residue.
Window steam cleaning is for households in need of sanitisation, or for deep cleaning cycles every two to three months.
When to Hire Professional Cleaners
Hiring cleaners is beneficial in instances where skills, safety, and efficiency outweigh the advantages of DIY cleaning.
High-Rise or Hard-to-Reach Windows
Accessing exterior windows in high-rise HDBs and condominiums can be dangerous as it requires equipment like scaffolds, safety harnesses and pole systems.
Professional cleaners have the right equipment for safe and effective cleaning.
Large Houses/Apartments with Numerous or Large Windows
The time and effort for cleaning the windows yourself may be impractical. Outsource the cleaning to the experts to save you hours or days.
Severe Stains, Hard Water Marks, or Mineral Deposits
Professionals can safely remove these buildups without damaging glass or frames,
Post-Construction or Renovation Cleaning
Renovation projects usually leave dust, paint splatter and adhesive residues on surfaces including the windows.
Quickly restore their shine by engaging window cleaners.
Time Constraints and Convenience
If your lifestyle is busy and regular maintenance is difficult to schedule, hiring cleaners will be your best option. Your windows will remain clean effortlessly, and your health will also benefit from having clean windows.
Safety for the Elderly or Residents with a Disability
Professional cleaners eliminate the risks of climbing ladders or reaching high areas.
Conclusion
With the right tools and techniques at your disposal, window cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. But we know that not everyone has the time and the capability to effectively clean their windows, which is why cleaning companies like Kungfu Helper make window cleaning a worthwhile investment.
Book us today for various home cleaning needs, including carpet cleaning, part-time helper, and move-in/out cleaning.
