Ever wondered how to achieve those captivating streak-free windows?
The secret lies in using a squeegee – a simple yet powerful tool that delivers impressive results on both your interior and exterior windows.
In this enlightening piece, we’re going to demystify the art of window cleaning with a squeegee, offering handy steps as well as insider tips to ensure you achieve the sparkling clear windows you desire.
Is Squeegee Good For Windows?
A lot of people wonder if their window cleaning routine is missing something essential—like the squeegee.
A really useful tool with a flexible blade, it expels water or cleaning solution off your windows, rendering them not just spotlessly clean but gleaming.
Why Should You Squeegee Your Windows?
The beauty of using a squeegee lies in its prowess to ward off water spots, smudges and streaks from your windows.
This ensures that your glass stays shiny and transparent as though it’s just been installed.
However, recognize that all squeegees aren’t created equal.
Consider a few key factors when choosing the best window squeegee for your paneled pals:
1. Blade Size & Material
The blade should cover a generous stretch of the window without becoming unwieldy.
Aim for silky smooth flexibility in your blade so it can glide across different window shapes without causing any unsightly scratches.
Materials like silicone or rubber create resilient blades that can be easily cleaned and replaced to enhance shelf life.
2. Handle Design & Material
The handle should feel comfortable in your grasp—the ergonomic design should protect against hand or wrist strain during prolonged usage.
Besides being lightweight, ensuring that the handle boasts non-slip properties can save you from potential mishaps mid-clean.
Look for stainless steel or plastic handles as they resist rust and corrosion effectively while adding durability.
Some models come with hooks or suction cups for convenient storage.
3. Pole Length & Type
The pole comes into play when those high, hard-to-reach windows come up for cleaning duty—it needs to be long enough to access these spots comfortably without becoming cumbersome or unstable.
Fixed poles have their own charm but telescoping or swiveling varieties let you customize length and angle as per specifications of each unique window.
Certain designs even incorporate scrubbers on poles, making it easier to loosen grime before you get down to squeegeeing.
Which Side Of Squeegee To Use?
If you have a type of squeegee with two distinct sides, the scrubber and the blade, know that each has its own distinct purpose in window cleaning.
Consider the scrubber side as your first line of attack. This softer side, usually made from sponge or cloth material, is designed for applying your chosen cleaning solution and carrying out the initial scouring of grime and dirt (for really dirty windows, check out this guide). Think of this stage as prepping the surface for the final act.
Post scrubbing comes the blade, or what some may refer to as ‘the business end’ of the squeegee.
This hard, flat edge is here to perform a very specific role – removing residual water and executing that final polish.
How Do You Professionally Clean Window With A Squeegee
Many people struggle with achieving that streak-free, professional standard of window cleaning.
The secret? A high-quality squeegee.
While it may seem like a simple tool, knowing how to properly use a squeegee can radically transform your window washing game.
To begin with, good quality is key.
Opt for a professional-grade squeegee featuring a durable rubber blade and an ergonomic handle.
For tall windows or those tricky-to-reach spots, consider an extension pole.
Pair this with a microfiber scrubber or cloth for effective dirt and grime scrubbing.
Next, concoct an appropriate window cleaning solution tailored to the specific needs of your windows.
While commercial products are available, creating a homemade potion combining water and vinegar or dish soap can work wonders too!
Add in some rubbing alcohol to further prevent any streaking.
Application is key; thoroughly wet the window using either a squeegee sponge (if you’re using one that’s 2-in-1), spray bottle or separate scrubber.
Then get scrubbing! Wipe off any dirt or residue with the microfiber scrubber, giving proper attention to the ledges and frames too.
Don’t delay once you’re ready to squeegee – act before dry spots appear! Professional cleaners swear by what’s known as the “swivel method” (or “fan method”).
This involves a series of strokes combined with turns which push water away from the leading edge of the squeegee so nothing gets left behind.
Here’s a YouTube short showing exactly that technique
Alternatively, give the straightforward ‘top-to-bottom’ technique a go – although beware this can sometimes lead to more streaking!
Afterwards, ensure any leftover water from your window edges or frame is dried up using a clean towel or cloth—no one likes watermarks!
Finally, for persistent streaks or missed areas apply final touches using chamois leather cloth or another round with your trusty microfiber cloth.
How To Squeegee Tall Windows
Challenged by towering windows that seem impossible to clean? You’re not alone.
With the right tools and techniques, shining those high-altitude panes isn’t as daunting as it seems.
To conquer your tall windows, you’ll require an extendable pole fitted with a squeegee attachment, a window cleaning solution, a bucket, a sponge, and an absorbent towel or cloth.
Adjusting Your Squeegee Pole for Tall Windows
Your first step in this chore is fitting the squeegee onto the extendable pole and adjusting it according to your window’s height.
Opt for a swivel head or pivoting handle to alter the squeegee’s angle as necessary. This flexibility will allow you to adapt to any tricky corners or angles.
Creating Your Window Cleaning Solution
Next, whip up your window cleaning solution. Combine water with vinegar or dish soap in a bucket. Pro tip: Include some rubbing alcohol in the mix to prevent streaks from forming. Set up another bucket filled with clean water for rinsing.
Applying Your Cleaning Solution
Immerse your squeegee sponge into the cleaning solution and scrub away any dirt or residue clinging onto the glass.
Squeegeeing The Window Clean
Before dry spots form, wield your trusty squeegee and banish all grime from the glass using the swivel method or the precise upward-to-downward strokes (demonstrated in our mentioned techniques).
Final Touches For Sparkling Windows
Finally, mop up any lingering water droplets on the window, frame and squeegee using a fresh towel or cloth. Inspect for any streaks that may have escaped notice earlier – these can be easily nailed down with a quick swipe of a microfiber cloth.
Homemade Window Washing Solution For Squeegee
Whipping up a homemade window washing solution for a squeegee is easier than you might think!
Most solutions are based around three key ingredients: water, vinegar, and dish soap.
Here are some effective recipes to get you started.
1) Simple Soap and Water: Combine two gallons of water with a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid in a bucket. This quick and easy recipe allows your squeegee to glide smoothly across windows, removing dust and grime with little effort.
2) Alcohol, Vinegar, & Dish Soap Spray: Looking for something more vigorous? Make a spray by mixing one cup of rubbing alcohol with one cup of white distilled vinegar, then adding three drops of dishwashing liquid. Spray your windows liberally and give them a good scrub with a microfiber cloth. Follow up by spraying again and using your squeegee to wipe away any remaining solution or grime.
3) Hot Water & Vinegar Combo: Blend one cup of hot water with one cup of white distilled vinegar in a small bucket. Soak your windows using either a sponge or spray bottle, then scrub off any stubborn dirt or residue. Use your trusty squeegee from top to bottom to eliminate any leftover solution or streaks. Remember to wipe your blade after each stroke for optimal results. Lastly, mop up any drips or streaks with a microfiber cloth or towel.
Using these homemade concoctions will keep your windows sparkling clean while also treating them gently compared to harsh commercial cleaners.
