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Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,574
Registered: ‎03-28-2010

I moved into a new home 3 years ago and have had nothing but trouble cleaning windows....and I have A LOT of them (over 30).  I've tried everything...different windows cleaners, different brands of paper towels, vinegar, newspapers, etc.  I went to Home Depot yesterday and purchased a window cleaning kit using a squeegee, microfiber cloth and cleaner.  After I used it, I thought finally something worked, but just to wake up this morning and see to all the windows I did yesterday look all streaked and dirty.  UGH!  I've also tried cleaning in all seasons (winter, spring, summer, fall) and days that are warmer and days that are much cooler (I live in the Southeast now).  In my old house, my windows came out perfectly everytime just using window and Costco papertowels.  I don't know what I'm doing wrong or what's going on.  Any advice or suggestions?

Honored Contributor
Posts: 11,074
Registered: ‎10-01-2013

Since this seems to be very problematic for you, I would hire a window washing service to do the job and then relax. It couldn't cost more than all the money you have spent on cleaning supplies. Sometimes it is just easier to give in and let the pros do the job. 

Trusted Contributor
Posts: 1,392
Registered: ‎06-08-2011

I know what you mean.  My front door is giving me that kind of problem.  I'm wondering if something isn't embedded in the glass.  I thought I had found a solution the other day, but the next day, I too saw streaks and spots on the full glass.  I'm so frustrated.  I want to use an abrasive, but I'm afraid I'll scratch the glass for good.  I hope someone here makes a good suggestion.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,574
Registered: ‎03-28-2010

@RetRN wrote:

Since this seems to be very problematic for you, I would hire a window washing service to do the job and then relax. It couldn't cost more than all the money you have spent on cleaning supplies. Sometimes it is just easier to give in and let the pros do the job. 


I've thought about it.  It's expensive, easily mid $300 range.  Right now we're really trying to cut back on the spending.  Once we can start doing some things again, that will be at the top of my list.

Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,574
Registered: ‎03-28-2010

@Jaspersmom wrote:

I know what you mean.  My front door is giving me that kind of problem.  I'm wondering if something isn't embedded in the glass.  I thought I had found a solution the other day, but the next day, I too saw streaks and spots on the full glass.  I'm so frustrated.  I want to use an abrasive, but I'm afraid I'll scratch the glass for good.  I hope someone here makes a good suggestion.


I'm certain the previous owners (there was only one) had them professionally cleaned.  I'm wondering if they used something that when I try to do myself, causes this?

Respected Contributor
Posts: 2,331
Registered: ‎04-02-2015

@ScrapHappy wrote:

I moved into a new home 3 years ago and have had nothing but trouble cleaning windows....and I have A LOT of them (over 30).  I've tried everything...different windows cleaners, different brands of paper towels, vinegar, newspapers, etc.  I went to Home Depot yesterday and purchased a window cleaning kit using a squeegee, microfiber cloth and cleaner.  After I used it, I thought finally something worked, but just to wake up this morning and see to all the windows I did yesterday look all streaked and dirty.  UGH!  I've also tried cleaning in all seasons (winter, spring, summer, fall) and days that are warmer and days that are much cooler (I live in the Southeast now).  In my old house, my windows came out perfectly everytime just using window and Costco papertowels.  I don't know what I'm doing wrong or what's going on.  Any advice or suggestions?


Try Lowes Glass Cleaner, made by Sprayway, streakless made with  ammonia, works wonders.

Honored Contributor
Posts: 13,587
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

We have 60 windows. I hired someone to do the inside and outside two years ago and then the outside only last year because we get tons of spider webs on the windows outside. 

 

Inside?  I’m going to be honest.  We never touch the actual glass and the windows are never opened. So I don’t clean them in between professional cleanings and they look just fine. 


Why is it, when I have a 50/50 guess at something, I'm always 100% wrong?
Esteemed Contributor
Posts: 6,113
Registered: ‎04-14-2013

I swear by microfiber towels, one wet, and then one dry (just water).  Link to Campanelli puppy fur towels (these have a bit of "nap"):

 

https://www.qvc.com/Set-of-10-Puppy-Fur-Microfiber-Towel-Set-by-Campanelli.product.V35863.html?sc=SR...

 

 

My other solution is to just not do it very often, because no matter what, there is streaking and something missed.  I pick this option most often.

Cogito ergo sum
Honored Contributor
Posts: 17,603
Registered: ‎03-10-2010

This drives me  nuts,  i also have tried so many things.

When you lose some one you L~O~V~E, that Memory of them, becomes a TREASURE.
Respected Contributor
Posts: 4,631
Registered: ‎03-09-2010

Try Sprayway Glass Cleaner if you haven't already.  It's an aerosol foam. The best.  Years ago it was for commercial use only.  My first husband owned a glass company in our town and he used it in his business.  Now you can buy it anywhere.  I use Viva paper towels.