Top 5 Tools You Should Have for Cleaning Windows

TLDR;

The best tools for cleaning windows are a squeegee, microfiber cloths, an extension pole, a high-quality cleaning solution, and a scrubber or sponge. These tools help ensure a streak-free, safe, and efficient window cleaning process whether you're doing it at home or professionally like we do at Amazing Finish Windows.

Why Clean Windows Matter More Than You Think

Clean windows do more than just make your home or business look nice — they impact the light, the mood, and even your health.

• Enhanced Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. Whether you're trying to sell a home or just want your property to shine, sparkling windows give a polished, cared-for appearance.

• Natural Light Boost: Clean glass allows more sunlight to pass through, improving indoor brightness and energy efficiency.

• Prevent Glass Damage: Dirt, hard water stains, and pollutants can etch and weaken your glass over time.

• Healthier Indoor Environment: Dirty windows and frames can trap allergens, mold, and mildew, reducing indoor air quality.
  

Tool #1: Squeegee – The Streak-Free King

The single most effective tool for cleaning windows is a squeegee. Period.

• Why It Works: The rubber blade removes water and cleaner in one swipe, preventing streaks.
  
  
• Ideal Usage:
  
  
• Start from the top and pull down in even strokes
  
• Wipe the blade dry between strokes
  
  
• Best Brands:
  
  
• Ettore
  
• Unger Professional
  
  
• Pro Tips:
  
  
• Use a 10- to 14-inch squeegee for residential windows
  
• Store it flat and replace the rubber blade regularly to maintain a sharp edge
  
  

Squeegees are essential for both interior and exterior windows and are trusted by pros like our team at Amazing Finish Windows.

Tool #2: Microfiber Cloths – No Lint, All Shine

Microfiber cloths are unbeatable when it comes to drying and buffing windows without leaving lint.

• Why They’re Better Than Paper Towels:
  
  
• Reusable
  
• Leave zero streaks or fuzz
  
• Super absorbent
  
  
• How to Use Them:
  
  
• Wipe around window edges after squeegee use
  
• Buff for final shine
  
  
• Best Options:
  
  
• E-Cloth
  
• Mr. Siga
  
  
• Maintenance:
  
  
• Wash without fabric softener
  
• Air-dry to keep fibers active
  
  

Use two cloths: one for drying, one for final polish.

Tool #3: Extension Poles – Clean High Windows Without a Ladder

For second-story windows or hard-to-reach panes, extension poles are a must.

• Benefits:
  
  
• No ladder needed — safer and faster
  
• Reach up to 30+ feet
  
  
• Types:
  
  
• Telescopic (adjustable) vs. Fixed length
  
  
• Compatibility:
  
  
• Look for threaded tips for squeegees or scrubbers
  
  
• Usage Tips:
  
  
• Practice control on lower windows first
  
• Keep your stance stable to manage sway
  
  

At Amazing Finish Windows, extension poles allow us to handle even the tallest storefronts without compromising safety.

Tool #4: Window Cleaning Solution – Store-Bought vs DIY

A quality cleaning solution breaks down grime so your tools can do their job.

• Avoid This:
  
  
• Ammonia-based cleaners can damage tints and harm frames
  
  
• DIY Mix:
  
  
• 1 cup white vinegar
  
• 1 gallon warm water
  
• A drop of dish soap (optional)



Interested in making your own cleaner? Check out our favorite Homemade Window Cleaning Solutions using safe, effective ingredients already in your pantry.

• Top Store-Bought Picks:
  
  
• Sprayway Glass Cleaner (aerosol, no streaks)
  
• Windex Outdoor (attach to garden hose for ease)
• For mineral deposits and sprinkler stains, consider using a hard water stain remover specifically formulated for glass surfaces.
  
  
• Scented or Scent-Free:
  
  
• Choose scent-free for allergy-sensitive homes
  
• Citrus scents can double as natural degreasers
  
  

Using the right cleaner means you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time admiring your view.

Tool #5: Scrubbers, Brushes & Sponges – The Grime Busters

When windows are extra dirty — think pollen, bird droppings, or road film — you'll need a scrubber that goes beyond a gentle wipe.

• When to Use These Tools:
  
  
• After storms
  
• On commercial storefronts
  
• For kitchen windows near grease
  
  
• Options:
  
  
• Handheld scrubbers with replaceable pads
  
• Soft-bristle brushes
  
• Sponges with non-scratch surfaces
  
  
• Avoid This:
  
  
• Steel wool or abrasive scouring pads — they scratch glass
  
  
• Advanced Tools:
  
  
• Drill brush attachments for stuck-on gunk
  
• Pole-mounted scrubbers for large surfaces
  
  

These tools complement your squeegee, especially on windows that haven't been cleaned in months (or years).

Bonus Tools: What the Pros Use That You Might Not Know About

Pros like us at Amazing Finish Windows have a few extra tools that boost efficiency and safety:

• Window Track Brushes: Narrow bristles get into sliding window tracks to remove dust and bugs
  
• Bucket-on-a-Belt: Keeps squeegees and cloths at your hip — great for ladder work
  
• Rubber Gloves & Eye Protection: Protects skin and eyes from splashes and irritants
  
• Ladder Stabilizers: Keeps ladders secure when working at height, especially on uneven ground
  
  

While not required, these extras can make your DIY clean-up smoother and safer.

Eco-Friendly Window Cleaning: What to Use & What to Avoid

For those wanting to keep it green, window cleaning doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals.

• Safe Alternatives:
  
  
• White vinegar
  
• Castile soap
  
• Cornstarch + water mix
  
  
• Plant-Based Brands:
  
  
• Method
  
• Seventh Generation
  
  
• Why Go Natural?:
  
  
• Safer for pets and kids
  
• Reduces environmental runoff
  
  
• Cloth Replacements:
  
  
• Bamboo fiber cloths
  
• Recycled cotton rags
  
  

Avoid commercial products with synthetic fragrance, dyes, or ammonia.

Seasonal Tips for Sparkling Windows Year-Round

Every season brings a new cleaning challenge.

• Spring:
  
  
• Remove pollen, dust, and fresh debris
  
  
• Summer:
  
  
• Bug splatter, bird droppings, and hard water from sprinklers
  
  
• Fall:
  
  
• Sap, falling leaves, and dusty wind
  
  
• Winter:
  
  
• Salt spray from snow clearing
  
• Condensation streaks
  
  

Aim to clean exterior windows at least 2–3 times per year, or quarterly for businesses.

Tool Maintenance & Storage Tips

Good tools make the job easier — but only if you care for them.

• Squeegee:
  
  
• Wipe blade clean after each use
  
• Store flat to prevent bending
  
• Replace blade when it starts streaking
  
  
• Microfiber Cloths:
  
  
• Rinse and dry immediately after use
  
• No bleach or fabric softener
  
  
• Extension Poles:
  
  
• Collapse and store in dry area
  
• Clean threads to prevent rust
  
  
• Scrubbers:
  
  
• Remove grime after each use
  
• Replace heads as needed
  
  

Routine maintenance ensures tools stay effective and last longer.

Invest in Tools That Make It Easy

The five best tools for window cleaning — squeegee, microfiber cloth, extension pole, cleaning solution, and scrubber — are the same tools we use every day at Amazing Finish Windows.

• They reduce cleaning time
  
• Deliver better, streak-free results
  
• Make the process safer and more manageable
  
  

Whether you're a homeowner or a property manager, investing in the right equipment transforms window cleaning from a dreaded chore into a quick, satisfying task.