If you would rather use paper towels, choose a brand that's up to the task. Try Casabella Microfiber Glass Cloths, which have a special honeycomb texture to nab water spots, smudges and dirt from mirrors and glass without scratching. 'They are super absorbent, washable and leave the glass shiny and streak-free,' Forte says. Some folks like drying panes with newspaper, but you're better off reusable microfiber cloths. Check out more of our top-tested cleaners, depending on the job: The fine mist from the bottle stays where you spray until you wipe it, meaning less drips and mess. She recommends Invisible Glass Cleaner With EZ Grip. 'You need plenty of cleaner to dissolve and suspend the dirt so it can be completely wiped away - skimp and you'll be seeing streaks,' Forte says. Mistake #3: Skimping on window cleaner.ĭon't hold back on the spray, especially if your windows look extra dirty. LAB TIP: You can also refresh your curtains at the same time by putting them in the dryer for 15 minutes on an 'air-only' cycle and rehanging quickly to prevent wrinkles. If your window screen looks especially grimy, pop it out and wash with hot, sudsy water and a soft brush, then rinse and let dry before putting it back.įor quickly dusting shades and blinds, Forte recommends going over both sides with a microfiber duster, or opening the slats and going over each one with a damp cloth followed with a dry one. This will prevent dirt from turning into a muddy mess when mixed with a cleaner. Mistake #2: Spraying cleaner on top of dirt and dust.īefore you get started, sweep dirt from the window frame with a brush, or suck it up with a handheld vacuum or your machine's dust attachment.

If the weather won't cooperate, start on the shady side of the house.

'Do this job in the blazing sun and the cleaner will dry onto the hot windows before you get to wipe it off, leaving hard-to-remove streaks,' Forte says. Mistake #1: Choosing a sunny day to clean your windows.

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