Cleaning windows seems like a menial task, but doing it wrong can lead to more problems for you. If you’ve been cleaning your windows regularly but can’t seem to get rid of all the streaks and grime, then you’re doing something wrong.

While it’s best to just call for professional window cleaning services in Seattle or other places to make your windows spotless, it’s important to know what mistakes to avoid when cleaning your windows. Here are some of them:

1. Cleaning during a hot or sunny day

Clean windows during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not bright and shining. Otherwise, the heat can dry up the cleaning solution on your windows too quickly and leave unsightly streaks afterwards.

2. Using abrasive tools

If you have tough stains or hard gunk on your windows, don’t use razor blades or abrasive tools to remove them. Allow the gunk to soften with a cleaning solution then wipe it off with a rag or squeegee.

3. Reaching windows that are too high

Unless you are a professional, cleaning windows that are on the third or fourth story can be utterly dangerous, so call in professional window cleaners instead. But if you’re cleaning second-story windows, make sure your ladder is set on a stable surface. Have someone on the ground hold the ladder steady if possible.

4. Cleaning in the wrong pattern

Wiping your windows in the wrong way can leave streaks behind and make your windows look even worse. To clean your windows like a pro, use a squeegee and move it in an S-pattern (right to left, down, then left-to-right; repeat until the window is fully cleaned)

5. Drying with newspaper

Some newspapers can be suitable for cleaning your windows since they leave no residue and are very cheap. However, other newspapers can leave ink residue both on your panes and on your hands. Don’t want to take the risk? Use a microfiber cloth instead.

6. Using hard water

If the water in your house leaves hard water stains on your glassware and sinks, it will surely do the same to your windows. In this case, you can buy distilled water instead. But if you have a lot of windows to wash and don’t want to be wasteful, consider purchasing a water softener to get rid of the mineral stains.

7. Applying harsh cleaning products

It’s not recommended to use chemical cleaners on your windows since they can be harsh on glass surfaces and may attract dust. Opt for a mild dish soap instead. Alternatively, you can search for a homemade glass cleaner recipe with inexpensive and safe ingredients.

8. Choosing wrong cloths

Don’t use old clothes, rags, or towels to clean your windows. These types of cloths can leave fibers and make unsightly streaks on the glass surface. Instead, use a microfiber cloth to dry your windows after rinsing.

Yes, there is a wrong way to clean your windows, and if you do the things mentioned above, you might want to change your habits. Cleaning your windows can be an overwhelming task, especially if you have a lot of them. If it’s too big of a task for you, remember that you can easily get help from the pros.