While reading this article, you’re probably peeking at your dirty windows and wondering how you’ll ever be able to clean that outside glass, right?! Rest assured – we’ve all been there.
That’s why we want to help you! We’re here to share a comprehensive guide to how to clean outside windows you can’t reach – expect practical tips, tool recommendations, and step-by-step instructions to transform your window cleaning efforts from the ground up.
And even more, if you need to replace your windows, we’ll tell you about the windows whose outside glass panes can be cleaned from the inside! How cool is that?!
Key Takeaways
- Specialized tools such as U-shaped telescopic poles, extendable squeegees, magnetic window cleaners, and window cleaning robots can make cleaning hard-to-reach outside windows safer and easier, eliminating the need for ladders.
- If you live in an apartment, you should opt for a U-shaped telescopic pole, a magnetic window cleaner, or a window cleaning robot to avoid any risks.
- To clean outside windows without a ladder, rinse them first with a garden hose, then use an extendable pole with a microfiber cloth or a sponge dipped in cleaning solution to wash the windows. Then, use an extendable squeegee to remove excess water and leave your windows sparkling clean!
- Consider professional window cleaning services if you don’t have the required tools or time to clean the windows yourself.
Choosing the Right Tools for Unreachable Windows
Preparing to clean windows you can’t reach can feel like preparing for a battle against dirt and grime. Fortunately, the arsenal of window cleaning tools available today makes it so much easier to conquer those hard-to-reach places with ease and safety! Selecting the right weapon—er, tool—is essential, whether you’re dealing with second-story windows or just trying to avoid the precarious reach from a ladder.
We’ve selected some of the most praised and sought-after window cleaning tools, so keep reading to discover more about each!
U-Shaped Telescopic Pole
Consider the U-shaped telescopic pole your trusty sidekick when cleaning apartment windows. As its name suggests, this tool has a U-shaped handle and a microfiber cloth that can be added to the squeegee, making it quite useful to clean outside windows from the inside without leaning too much over them. However, it’s worth considering that this tool can be slightly difficult to maneuver, especially if your windows are large.
Extendable Squeegee
Next in our toolkit is the extendable squeegee, a true champion when it comes to leaving a streak-free finish on your window panes. It has a telescopic pole handle that stretches to just the right length, allowing you to glide a high-quality squeegee across the glass, thus removing water spots and the soapy film.
Needless to say, it’s an excellent tool for cleaning windows from the outside without precarious balancing acts or the risk of climbing a ladder.
When choosing a squeegee, make sure its handle is sturdy and durable and can withstand pressure in case you need to scrape off any stains.
Extendable Pole or Household Mop
If you’ve already got a squeegee, look for an extendable pole you can use to attach the cloth/sponge/squeegee to. However, before buying one, check if the household mop is long enough to clean your outside windows. If it’s long enough – that’s excellent! No need to buy any other tool, except for a window cleaning attachment. If you don’t want to use an attachment, simply cover the mop head with a microfiber towel and clean your windows.
Window Cleaning Kit
If you have many windows that need regular cleaning, why not get a window cleaning kit? This way, you won’t have to worry about buying various tools separately and getting them together when it’s time for a deep clean.
Window cleaning kits usually include a tool holder, a squeegee, a microfiber cloth, a bucket, and an extension pole. Some may also include a precision microfiber cloth, a window cleaning scraper, a squeegee rubber, and a safety scraper.
Magnetic Window Cleaner
If you live in a high-rise building, you should definitely consider buying a magnetic window cleaner. It consists of two cleaning parts for each glass side held together by a magnet.
First, you have to dip both parts into the cleaning solution, then attach the safety rope to one of your hands (so that the outside part doesn’t fall off), and put both window cleaner parts onto the window matching them. Then, you control the outside part of the cleaner by moving the inside piece, ensuring your windows get that all-around clean without ever having to step outside.
However, before buying this product, make sure it suits the thickness of your glass; otherwise, it won’t be able to clean the windows well.
Window Cleaning Robot
A window cleaning robot is undoubtedly more expensive than other options. Nonetheless, it’s worth considering if your house has many windows – in the long run, the investment will return to you in the form of relaxation because you won’t have to tire yourself with cleaning outdoor windows! In addition, these products can also be used on mirrors, glass doors, and even tiles.
Window cleaning robots have a water tank, edge sensors, a walking wheel, a suction fan, and a water injection port. They can be controlled remotely, some of them even by voice.
Preparing Your Cleaning Solution
You can either buy a commercial window cleaning solution or opt for DIY window cleaning solutions. If you choose the latter, you’ll need 1/4 cup of alcohol and white vinegar with 5% acidity, five drops of dishwashing liquid, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and two cups of water. Mix everything and dip the microfiber cloth in it to clean the windows.
The rubbing alcohol and the vinegar act as disinfectants and help the solution evaporate faster from the surface, thus limiting the risk of unwanted water spots. The cornstarch acts as a window polisher – it is slightly abrasive but totally safe to use on windows.
How to Clean High Windows Without a Ladder?
Now that you’re equipped with the right tools, it’s time to embark on the window-cleaning journey!
Naturally, if you’ve chosen to clean outside windows with a magnetic cleaner or a window cleaning robot (the best options if you live in an apartment building), we won’t get into too many details about these because you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
You can also use a ladder to clean outside windows, and this entails a regular window cleaning routine, except that you’ll need to be extra careful and have someone holding the base of the ladder. In addition, you can use newspaper to dry the windows and leave them spotless!
As such, today we’ll focus on a step-by-step guide on cleaning hard-to-reach windows from the outside without using a ladder.
- Before cleaning your windows, remove the screens. It would be almost useless to clean your windows without cleaning the screens as well because the glass will get dirty in no time!
- You’ll need a garden hose to clean outdoor windows. It should have a stream sprayer attachment. Spray the windows thoroughly using the hose.
- Dip the microfiber cloth or the sponge into the cleaning solution.
- Attach it to the extension pole or the household mop.
- Use the extension pole or the household mop to clean glass windows, washing top to bottom.
- Use the garden hose to rinse the windows.
- Use the extendable squeegee to remove excess water by pulling it across the windows.
If you have sliding windows, don’t rush to clean them from the outside. Check if the sashes can be removed from the window frame to clean both glass surfaces from the comfort of your home.
Professional Window Cleaning Service: When to Call the Experts
Sometimes after cleaning exterior windows, they still don’t have that shiny sparkle, despite your best efforts. Or maybe you simply don’t have the time or tools to tackle the task. That’s when you should consider calling in the cavalry—a professional window cleaning service. These experts come equipped with everything needed to make your windows shine, and they can handle even the most challenging glass areas safely and effectively.
Understanding the Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services
When you bring in a professional window cleaner, you’re not just paying for clean windows—you’re investing in convenience, curb appeal, and the longevity of your windows. Professionals have the expertise and equipment to achieve results that might be difficult to replicate on your own. Plus, they can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your home or business.
And let’s not forget the peace of mind that comes with knowing your windows are being cleaned safely and thoroughly.
Evaluating the Cost vs. DIY Efforts
Choosing between DIY and professional window cleaning ultimately comes down to weighing the costs and benefits. On one hand, DIY cleaning can be cost-effective, but it does require an investment of your time and energy (don’t forget that you’ll also have to buy various cleaning tools). On the other hand, professional services offer convenience and expertise but come with a price tag.
Ultimately, this choice depends on personal preferences and budget. For example, if your house has many windows, you may want to consider professional cleaning services – otherwise, you’d need to take a mini-cleaning-holiday to wash them all! If there aren’t too many hard-to-reach windows to clean, you can certainly do this on your own.
Install Replacement Windows that Can Be Cleaned from the Inside!
Naturally, installing replacement windows is only an option if you really need new windows. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait a few more years to get the windows that are as easy to clean as they are to open!
We’re talking, of course, about Magic’s casement windows! Our patented, award-winning parallex hardware system is intricately designed to make cranks and hinges obsolete. Instead, we use a galvanized steel rod that runs throughout the sashes and connects two parallel tracks installed at the top and bottom of the frame.
This way, when you open the window, it slides along a horizontal axis, and the top and bottom move in tandem. The sash then stops along a certain point along the frame, and – voila! – you have access to both the interior and the exterior glass surfaces. As such, our windows are an excellent option for houses, and you won’t need a ladder or an extendable pole or anything!
Summary
In the end, whether you choose to arm yourself with an extendable squeegee and take on the challenge on your own or decide to call in the professionals – the path to crystal clear windows is within reach! We’ve explored tools, techniques, and tips to make cleaning those seemingly unreachable windows less of a headache and more of a victory. Regular maintenance and strategic protective measures can help preserve your efforts, keeping your windows—and your view—impeccable.
On the other hand, if you’ve decided to install replacement windows, don’t hesitate to contact Magic to discover the features of the best windows that are the easiest to clean!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular mop to clean my high windows?
You can use a mop to clean windows, just make sure to use an attachment designed for window cleaning. If you can’t find one, cover the mop head with a fiber cloth. Otherwise, the mop head may scratch the glass.
How often should I clean my exterior windows?
You should clean your exterior windows 2-3 times a year, adjusting for your local environment and weather conditions, and do regular dusting and spot cleaning between deep cleanings to maintain clarity.
What’s the best time of day to clean windows to avoid streaks?
To avoid streaks, it’s best to clean windows on a cloudy or overcast day. This prevents the cleaning solution from drying too quickly, reducing the likelihood of streaks.
Are magnetic window cleaners safe to use on all types of windows?
Yes, magnetic window cleaners are generally safe for most window types, but it’s important to check if the glass can handle the pressure and if the magnetic cleaner is suitable for the glass thickness of your windows.
Is it worth investing in professional window cleaning services?
Yes, it’s worth investing in professional window cleaning services if you value convenience and expert results and lack the time or equipment to do it yourself.