Perfect window cleaning

There is nothing like a summers day with the sun streaming in through the windows. But what if those windows are streaky and smeared with dirt – the effect can be a huge reduction in sunlight entering the room.

We all have experienced the frustration of spraying on the window cleaner and following the instructions only to find that it dries too quickly or doesn't get the windows clean at all. You are left with hazy streaks all over the window and you wonder what you did wrong.

In fact all this rubbing can be counter-productive. It causes the window to become statically charged and will draw particles of dust to it. Obviously this is the last thing you need.

Well, there’s one method which has been tried and tested and really does work, both indoors and outdoors.

• All you need is dish washing detergent – a few drops into a bucket of water is plenty. If you prefer a small amount of vinegar will also work well. Too much soap is what causes the streaks, so make sure your solution is very weak.
• Use a sponge to coat the window with water – not too much though – it shouldn't drip. Wash the window with the sponge, cleaning away any obvious marks. Don't forget the frame as well.
• Dip a squeegee into a bucket of clean water and starting at the top of the window, draw the squeegee down the window. It takes a little practise but it is possible to do the whole window in one fluid motion. If not, dip the squeegee after each pass and dry it before making the next pass.
• Wipe the window clean with paper towels if there are any drips left.

This method will work well on all windows, even on mirrors in the house. It is possible to buy extension poles for upper windows with squeegee attachments.

It isn't for nothing that professional window cleaners use squeegees and buckets. It is simple and effective and best of all very cheap. Prepared window cleaners and paper towels are fine for small areas but for a whole window this method is the easiest and will make your windows sparkle.