5 window cleaning hacks to get rid of all those nasty smudges fast

No streaks in sight

A woman cleaning a window with a microfiber cloth.
(Image credit: Getty)

Window cleaning is one of those chores that it’s seriously easy to forget about. That is until you notice just how grimy your windows have become. Think: splatters of dirt, greasy handprints, and if, like me, your home is filled with pets, there’s probably also the odd nose smear or two spread across your windows. 

I don't know if it's just me, but the windows in my house always seem to look a total mess. And, until recently, I realized that I wasn't quite nailing the whole window cleaning thing. But, after scrolling #CleanTok, I've finally got it down to a science. The good news is that achieving a crystal clear clean is far easier than you might think. 

For sparkling clean windows, without a streak in sight, give these TikTok-approved hacks a try. 

What are the best window cleaning hacks?

1. Avoid streaks and lint by using a microfiber cloth

Finding that your windows always end up looking streaky or coated in lint? Simply swap to using a microfiber cloth (like these ones from Amazon) to buff your windows and you’ll avoid any marks or lint left on them. Yep, it really is that easy. 

2. Use a sponge brush for window tracks

Got a build up of grime in your window tracks that, no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to remove? Don't panic. A super easy hack for getting into all those teeny tiny crevices exists, and it's so simple. All you need to do is dip a sponge brush, like this one from Amazon, into a diluted disinfectant (whichever you use already, or if you need to buy, we love Lysol) and water mix and carefully wipe along the tracks, removing the grime. 

3. Use a telescopic window cleaner

Not a fan of ladders? Yeah, me neither. I used to put off cleaning the outside of my windows because I hated the whole ladder-climbing charade, but when I saw this extendable tool on TikTok, it changed everything. Honestly, a telescopic window cleaner (you can grab one off Amazon) will change your life. It's SO easy to use and they leave your windows looking great too. I’d 100% recommend. 

4. Clean and dry with a window squeegee vacuum

Whether you’re cleaning interior or exterior windows, a specially-designed window vacuum like this Karcher model from Amazon will make this job way easier. No need to worry about excess water or water stains, all you have to do is run the squeegee where you’ve cleaned and it’ll suck up any leftover water. A friend of mine has one of these and, after trying hers out, I can confirm they’re just as good as they sound. 

5. Remove water stains with a DIY spray

Noticed your windows are dotted with pesky water stains? Easily remove them with a mix of vinegar, dish soap, and lemon. Fill a spray bottle halfway with white vinegar (Heinz's cleaning vinegar from Amazon is always our go-to) and then add one part dish soap and one part lemon juice, spritz onto windows, allow it to sit for a couple of minutes, and then use a microfiber cloth to buff the stains away. 

Beth Mahoney
Freelance journalist

Hi! I’m Beth Mahoney and I’m a former staff writer at Real Homes. I’ve been a journalist for the national press for the past six years, specializing in commerce and trends-related lifestyle articles, from product reviews and listicles to guides and features. With an eye for pretty things (think: quirky wall prints, scalloped edge furniture, and decadent-looking tableware) but a limited budget, I love nothing more than a bargain buy.


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