Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Bucket.
• Clean, soft cloths — Recycled surgical towels work well, according to Nijjar.
• Cleaning solution — Nijjar recommends making your own by mixing 2 to 3 gallons of water with a 10-second squeeze of dish soap. You could also use a store-bought spray glass cleaner (ammonia-and-water based).
• T-bar scrubber with a replaceable microfiber sleeve.
• 14-inch squeegee — Nijjar recommends a brass one because its extra weight makes it easier to maneuver. If you can’t find brass, aluminum or stainless steel work well too. If you have very large windows, you might want an 18-inch squeegee.
• Large paint brush or a hand-held vacuum for cleaning windowsills.

Tip: For even more cleaning solutions, visit our Help Center.

Here’s Nijjar’s pro method for washing the outside of your windows:

1. Remove the insect screen and clean it. This leaves time for it to dry while you tackle the rest of the window.
2. Brush away dirt and spiderwebs from the window frame and sills using a large paint brush.
3. Wipe down the window frame using a damp cloth.
4. Beginning at the top and working down, wash glass with your T-bar scrubber and solution. Rub up-and-down and side-to-side using light to moderate pressure.
5. If your window is very dirty, you might need to scrub the glass a second time.
6. Using a clean, dry cloth, wipe the top and edges of the windows to break the bead of water.
7. Squeegee the glass dry by starting in one of the top corners and swiping down in a straight line. Keep working your way across the top, wiping your squeegee dry in between strokes. Angle your squeegee slightly so it directs water toward the part of the glass you haven’t squeegeed yet.
8. Using a dry cloth, detail around the glass to remove any soapy residue left behind. Make sure to use a different, dry part of the rag with each wipe.
9. Finally, wipe down the frames.

Here are some answers to other window cleaning questions you might have:

• How do I clean my interior window frames? Wood-framed windows can be dusted with a microfiber cloth in much the same way you dust your woodwork. 100 Series windows are made of Fibrex® composite material, which can be washed with a solution of mild soap and water and then dried with a clean, soft cloth. Tackle the frames at the same time you clean the glass for a one-and-done approach. Note: It’s not recommended to use alcohol-based cleaners on Fibrex® composite material window frames — find more details here.
• How do I clean my window hardware? Most hardware can be cleaned by using a soft cloth with a mild soap-and-water solution. Note: Chrome and bronze (both oil-rubbed and distressed) hardware finishes require different cleaning approaches — find the details in our help center.
• How do I clean my window grilles? Grilles can be cleaned with a brush and a solution of mild soap and water at the same time you clean window glass. If you have interior-only grilles, they may be removable for easy cleaning. To find out, gently try to lift them away from the glass. Removable grilles can be laid on a clean, flat surface for easy cleaning. Be sure to let them dry before reinstalling.
• What else needs maintaining? For smooth operation, window and door hardware and other moving components can be lubricated. Dry lubricant spray is recommended and available through our parts store. You can find instructions on using it here.