Streak-free windows are every cleaning professional’s dream! There’s nothing more annoying than realizing that streaks have returned after cleaning. But don’t worry, with the right method and a few tricks, you can do it easily.

Here’s how to clean your windows properly and without streaks:

Window cleaning step by step: How to get streak-free! ✨

Preparation is half the battle
The right time: Choose a cloudy day or clean your windows early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is not shining directly on the windows. Direct sunlight causes the cleaning product to dry too quickly, resulting in unsightly streaks.
Remove coarse dirt: Sweep dust, cobwebs and coarse dirt from the window frames and glass. For very dirty windows (e.g. after winter or construction work), you can first pre-clean the windows with clean water and a brush or cloth.
The Right Equipment

Two buckets: One for the cleaning water and one for the rinsing water.
Microfiber cloths: Ideal for pre-cleaning and polishing the edges. It is best to have several on hand.
Squeegee (window cleaner): A good squeegee with the rubber edge intact is essential for streak-free results.
Chamois leather or special glass cloth: For polishing and drying the edges.
Optional: A brush (covered with bristles) for applying the cleaning product, especially useful for larger surfaces.
The Ideal Cleaning Agent
You don’t need expensive special cleaning products. Homemade solutions are usually the best:
Warm water: The basis for any cleaning.
A little vinegar essence or isopropyl alcohol: Both help to dissolve grease and provide a streak-free shine. (Be careful with vinegar on delicate frame materials!)
A little detergent: Just a small amount! Too much detergent can cause streaks. It helps to dissolve grease and dirt.
Alternatively: A shot of black tea (brewed in a strong infusion and left to cool) can also make the glass shine.
Recommended mixing ratio: Approximately 5 litres of warm water, 2 tablespoons of vinegar essence, 1 drop of detergent.

How to clean windows without leaving streaks
First the frames: First, clean the window frames with the cleaning water and a cloth. This will prevent dirt from the frame from coming into contact with the clean glass.
Applying the cleaner: Dip the window cleaner or a microfibre cloth in the cleaning water and thoroughly moisten the entire window glass. Work from top to bottom.
Squeegeeing – It’s all about technique!
Start at the top: Place the squeegee at the top of the window.
Work in overlapping motions: Pull the squeegee in an even motion from top to bottom or side to side. It is important that the strips always overlap slightly to avoid leaving marks.

Clean the rubber edge: After each strip, thoroughly wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with a lint-free cloth (or chamois). This is crucial for streak-free results!

Maintain the angle: Hold the squeegee at a slight angle (approximately 10 to 15 degrees) to the window.

Polish the edges: You can wipe away any small traces of water on the edges that the squeegee cannot reach with a dry microfiber cloth or chamois. Make sure that this cloth is absolutely clean and dry.
Final Checks and Tips

Regularity pays off: Frequently cleaning small stains is easier than cleaning heavy dirt.

Old newspapers? Often recommended in the past, but with modern windows and cleaning products, newspapers can transfer ink or cause fine streaks. Microfiber cloths are a better choice.
Water quality: In areas with very hard water, limescale deposits can cause stains. A small splash of demineralized water (e.g. ironing water) in the cleaning water can help here.