How to Clean Windows Like a Professional: A Step-by-Step Guide
Clean, streak-free windows make a huge difference in how your property looks and feels. Whether it’s a storefront window, restaurant glass, or your home’s interior and exterior windows, a professional finish isn’t just about wiping with paper towels — it’s about using the right tools, technique, and products.
As exterior cleaning specialists serving Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and surrounding areas, we know what it takes to achieve crystal-clear windows that shine in the sunlight. Here’s our proven step-by-step process so you can do the same.
🧰 What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the right professional-grade tools:
🪟 Squeegee – A quality rubber squeegee is the most important tool for a streak-free finish.
🧼 Microfiber scrubber or sponge – For applying cleaning solution and loosening grime.
🪣 Bucket – Large enough to dip your scrubber and squeegee.
🌿 Cleaning solution – A mix of water and a few drops of dish soap works well. (For commercial jobs, use a professional window cleaning concentrate.)
🧻 Lint-free cloth or detailing towel – For wiping squeegee edges and corners.
🪜 Extension pole or ladder – For reaching higher windows safely.
🧤 Gloves and safety gear – Especially for commercial or elevated work.
🪣 Step 1: Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Fill your bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of dish soap (about 1 teaspoon per gallon). Too much soap can leave residue and streaks, so less is more.
For commercial windows or heavy buildup, consider a professional glass cleaner or additive to cut through grease and atmospheric grime.
🧼 Step 2: Scrub the Window Thoroughly
Dip your scrubber or sponge into the solution and apply evenly across the window surface. Start from the top and work your way down to prevent dirty water from dripping over cleaned sections.
Focus on corners and edges where dust and debris tend to collect. For stubborn spots (like bird droppings, tree sap, or grease), apply extra pressure or use a plastic scraper carefully.
💧 Step 3: Use the Squeegee Properly
The squeegee technique is what separates professionals from amateurs.
Angle the squeegee at about 30–45° against the glass.
Start at the top corner, pulling horizontally across the window in a smooth, controlled motion.
Wipe the squeegee blade with your lint-free cloth after each pass to avoid streaks.
Slightly overlap each pass to catch any leftover water.
For larger panes (e.g., commercial storefronts), use a “fanning” technique to cover more surface without lifting the squeegee — this helps achieve flawless results faster.
✍️ Step 4: Detail the Edges
After squeegeeing, use a clean microfiber cloth or towel to wipe the edges and corners of the window frame where water may have collected.
This final detailing step prevents drips and gives the window that crisp, professional finish.
☀️ Step 5: Choose the Right Conditions
Cleaning windows on a hot, sunny day can cause the solution to dry too quickly, leading to streaks. For best results, clean:
In the morning or on a cloudy day
When the glass is cool to the touch
With minimal wind to prevent dust from sticking
🏢 Commercial vs. Residential Window Cleaning
While the technique is similar, commercial properties often involve:
Larger glass panes
High-access windows (requiring poles, ladders, or lifts)
Frequent cleanings to maintain a professional storefront appearance
For safety and consistent results, professional window cleaning services are often the best choice for restaurants, retail stores, offices, and multi-story buildings.
🌟 Bonus Pro Tips
Replace your squeegee rubber blade regularly for the cleanest wipe.
Don’t use paper towels — they leave lint and streaks.
For hard water stains, use a specialized glass restoration product.
Clean window frames and sills regularly to prevent buildup that can drip onto clean glass later.
✨ Get Professional Window Cleaning Services
Window cleaning is one of those jobs that seems simple but requires skill to get right. Whether you own a restaurant in Hamilton, a storefront in Oakville, or manage a commercial property in Mississauga, our team has the equipment and experience to keep your windows spotless.
👉 Request a Free Quote for professional window cleaning services in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and surrounding areas.
