Homemade Window Cleaning Solutions for Indoor and Outdoor Use

Cleaning windows might not be anyone’s favorite weekend chore, but we’ve got easy homemade solutions to make it quicker, greener, and streak-free! If you’re looking for a natural way to get crystal-clear windows, these recipes are perfect for you.

Ingredients for Homemade Window Cleaner

You might already have most of these at home. If not, add them to your shopping list before your next store trip.

For outdoor windows:

  • Newspaper or clean microfiber cloths

  • Sponge

  • Water

  • Squeegee

  • Dish detergent

  • Ladder

  • Bucket

  • Outdoor hose

For indoor windows:

  • Newspaper or clean microfiber cloths

  • Water

  • Spray bottle (for indoor use)

  • Squeegee

  • White distilled vinegar

  • Glycerin (great for bathroom windows)


How to Clean Outdoor Windows

  1. Start by removing any screens or storm windows.

  2. Fill a bucket halfway with lukewarm water and add a few squirts of dish detergent — avoid using too much soap to prevent streaks.

  3. Begin with ground-level windows, scrubbing glass and windowsills with a sponge and soapy water.

  4. When working on higher windows, use a ladder safely—have someone steady it for you. For homes with second or third stories, consider hiring a professional for safety.

  5. Rinse windows and surrounding areas with an outdoor hose.

  6. Use a squeegee, wiping vertically on one side of the window and horizontally on the other, to remove moisture and avoid streaks.

  7. Dry edges thoroughly with newspaper or a microfiber cloth.


How to Clean Indoor Windows

  1. Mix equal parts white distilled vinegar and tap water in a spray bottle.

  2. Spray the solution on your indoor windows.

  3. Use the squeegee with vertical strokes on one side and horizontal strokes on the other to remove moisture for a streak-free finish.

  4. Dry edges completely with newspaper or a microfiber cloth.

  5. For bathroom windows and mirrors, add a few drops of glycerin to plain water, spray, and wipe dry to prevent fogging.


Need a Hand with Home Cleaning?

While Molly Maid doesn’t offer outdoor window cleaning, we provide a wide range of whole-home cleaning services tailored to your needs. Request a free estimate online and see how we can help keep your home sparkling clean on your schedule and budget!