Window Cleaning for Apartments

Clean windows brighten your entire apartment. In small spaces, windows are often a major light source, so keeping them clean makes a noticeable difference. The good news: interior window cleaning is straightforward.

How Often to Clean Windows

• Interior glass: Monthly or when visibly dirty
• Mirrors: Weekly (more frequently in bathrooms)
• Windowsills: Weekly with regular dusting
• Tracks: Monthly or as needed
• Exterior: Depends on access—some apartments handle this

What You Need

• Glass cleaner: Commercial or DIY (see below)
• Microfiber cloths: Lint-free and reusable
• Squeegee: Optional but helpful for large windows
• Old toothbrush: For tracks and corners

DIY Glass Cleaner

Mix in a spray bottle:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol (helps prevent streaks)

This works as well as commercial cleaners for most situations.

The Streak-Free Method

Step 1: Dust First

Wipe window frame and sill with dry cloth to remove loose dust. Spraying cleaner on dusty glass creates mud.

Step 2: Apply Cleaner

Spray glass evenly. Don't oversaturate—a light mist is sufficient.

Step 3: Wipe in One Direction

Use microfiber cloth to wipe in one direction:

• Horizontal strokes on one side
• Vertical strokes on the other
• This helps identify which side has streaks

Step 4: Buff Dry

Use a second, dry microfiber cloth to buff any remaining streaks.

Alternative: Squeegee Method

1. Apply soapy water with cloth or sponge
2. Starting at top corner, pull squeegee across in one stroke
3. Wipe blade clean after each stroke
4. Work down the window in overlapping strokes
5. Wipe edges with cloth

Common Mistakes

Cleaning in Direct Sunlight

Sun causes cleaner to dry too fast, leaving streaks. Clean windows on cloudy days or when they're in shade.

Using Paper Towels

Paper towels leave lint. Microfiber cloths work much better and are reusable.

Too Much Cleaner

More cleaner doesn't mean cleaner glass. A light mist is enough.

Using the Same Cloth

Using a dirty or wet cloth spreads grime. Use clean, dry cloths and switch when they get saturated.

Cleaning Window Tracks

Those grimy tracks that collect dirt and dead bugs:

1. Vacuum loose debris with crevice attachment
2. Spray with all-purpose cleaner
3. Let sit 5 minutes
4. Scrub with old toothbrush
5. Wipe with damp cloth
6. For stubborn grime, make paste with baking soda

Mirror Cleaning

Same technique as windows with one addition:

• Spray cleaner on cloth, not mirror (prevents drips behind frame)
• Wipe in S-pattern from top to bottom
• Buff with dry cloth
• Pay attention to edges where hairspray and toothpaste accumulate

What About Exterior Windows?

In apartments, exterior window access varies:

• Ground floor: May be able to clean from outside
• Upper floors: Usually limited to interior side
• Building maintenance: Some buildings clean exteriors periodically
• Tilt-in windows: Some double-hung windows tilt inward for cleaning

Check your lease or ask building management about exterior window cleaning policies.