Apartment Window Cleaning Made Easy: Pro Tips You Can Use Today

June 22, 2025

Table of Content

Cleaning your apartment window may not be your favorite chore, but it makes a big difference. Clean windows brighten your home, boost your mood, and make your apartment feel fresh. Whether you live on the first floor or the fifth, knowing the right way to clean can save you time and energy.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to clean apartment windows like a pro — using simple tools and easy steps.

Why Clean Apartment Windows?

Dust, dirt, fingerprints, and water spots build up on windows over time. This blocks sunlight and makes your apartment feel darker. If you’re renting, clean windows also show your landlord you care for the space. Plus, if you work from home, having clear views can help your focus and mood.

Regular window cleaning is a small task that brings big results.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather your supplies. You don’t need fancy tools — just the basics.

Here’s what you need:

A bucket of warm water

A few drops of dish soap

A microfiber cloth or sponge

A squeegee (optional, but helpful)

A dry towel

Vinegar (for tougher spots)

Spray bottle

A small step stool (for hard-to-reach spots)

If your apartment window is high or outside access is tricky, consider using a window-cleaning tool with an extendable handle.

How to Clean Apartment Windows

Let’s break it down into simple steps. You don’t have to be an expert to get pro-level results.

Dust the Window Frame

Before you touch the glass, wipe the frame and sill with a dry cloth. Remove loose dirt, cobwebs, and dust. If you skip this part, the grime might mix with your cleaner and make a mess.

Don’t forget the window tracks — they collect a lot of gunk.

Mix Your Cleaning Solution

Fill your bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. That’s it. If you want an extra shine, add one part vinegar to three parts water in a spray bottle. Vinegar helps cut through grease and water stains.

Avoid store-bought cleaners with strong chemicals if your apartment window is old or has wooden frames.

Wash the Window

Dip your cloth or sponge into the bucket and wring it out. Wipe the glass from top to bottom. Use light pressure and go in circles to lift off dirt.

If your window is extra dirty, change the water halfway through. Dirty water just spreads grime around.

Use a Squeegee (Optional but Recommended)

If you have a squeegee, start at the top of the window and pull it straight down. Wipe the blade after each pass with a towel. This tool helps prevent streaks and saves time.

No squeegee? No problem. Just wipe the glass with a clean, dry microfiber cloth after washing.

Dry and Buff

Use a dry towel or microfiber cloth to dry the edges of the window. These areas collect drips. Buff the glass gently to remove any leftover streaks.

Step back and check your work in the light. If you missed a spot, no worries — just wipe it again.

Tips for Exterior Apartment Windows

Cleaning inside windows is simple. But what about the outside?

If your apartment window opens inward, you’re in luck. Open the window and clean the outside just like the inside.

If not, try these options:

Use a long-handled cleaner with a sponge or squeegee

Attach a microfiber cloth to a broom for high windows

Ask your building management if they offer window cleaning

Never lean out of windows or use unsafe ladders — safety first!

Dealing with Common Window Issues

Sometimes, cleaning an apartment window isn’t enough. Here’s how to handle a few common problems:

Water Spots or Stains

Mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray on the spots, let it sit for five minutes, then scrub gently with a sponge. Dry with a towel.

Sticky Window Tracks

Sprinkle baking soda into the tracks. Add a little vinegar. It will fizz. Let it sit, then scrub with a toothbrush. Wipe clean with a cloth.

Foggy Double-Pane Windows

If the inside of your window (between the panes) is foggy, that’s a seal issue. You can’t fix this with cleaning. Call your landlord or a window pro.

Greasy Kitchen Windows

Use warm water with dish soap and vinegar. Wipe with a microfiber cloth. For tough grease, let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before wiping.

How Often Should You Clean Apartment Windows?

Aim to clean your apartment window every 2–3 months. If you live near a busy street or in an area with lots of pollen, you may want to clean more often.

Don’t wait until they’re visibly dirty. A quick clean keeps your windows looking great year-round.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Option

Want a green cleaning option? Use:

1 cup white vinegar

2 cups water

A few drops of lemon juice

This mixture works well, smells fresh, and is safe for the environment.

Use reusable cloths instead of paper towels to reduce waste.

Cleaning During Winter

If you’re cleaning windows in the winter, use warm (not hot) water and a small amount of rubbing alcohol. It helps prevent the water from freezing on the glass.

Dress warmly and clean early in the day to avoid freezing temps.

Quick Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

Use microfiber cloths (they leave less lint)

Clean on a cloudy day to reduce streaks

Wash your cloths after each use

Don’t:

Use newspaper (can leave ink streaks)

Clean in direct sunlight (dries cleaner too fast)

Use harsh chemicals on painted frames

FAQs

Q. What’s the best way to clean a high apartment window?

A. Use a long-handled window cleaner or a magnetic window cleaner that cleans both sides from inside. Avoid climbing or leaning dangerously.

Q. Can I use paper towels to clean windows?

A. You can, but microfiber cloths work better. Paper towels often leave lint and streaks behind.

Q. How do I get rid of streaks on my windows?

A. Use a squeegee or buff with a dry microfiber cloth after cleaning. Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight.

Q. Is vinegar safe for all types of apartment windows?

A. Yes, but avoid using vinegar on tinted or coated windows unless the manufacturer says it’s okay.

Q. How often should apartment windows be cleaned?

A. Clean every 2–3 months. Clean more often if you’re near a busy road or during allergy season.

Meta Title: How to Clean Apartment Windows Like a Pro Easy Apartment Window Cleaning Tips
Meta Description: Learn how to clean your apartment window like a pro with simple tools and easy steps. Keep your apartment bright and fresh with these quick window cleaning tips.
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