Is There a Right Time to Clean Your Windows? Surprisingly, Yes

Of all the chores on your to-do list, cleaning the windows is often a low-priority, easily overlooked task. Still, taking time to nix dust, dirt, and finger smears can make a surprisingly huge difference in how bright, clean, and inviting your home is. But how often should you tackle this chore, and is there a right time to clean windows in terms of season or even time of day? Turns out, there is! We’re diving into all the details, so get your cloth and glass cleaner ready.

Best Time of Day to Clean Windows 

Believe it or not, there is a best time of day to clean your windows. “Early morning or late afternoon is best, especially for exterior windows,” say Alicia Sokolowski, cleaning expert and co-founder of AspenClean. “Overcast days are also ideal. This prevents the sun from drying your cleaning solution too quickly before you can wipe it off, which reduces streaks.” Basically, you want to avoid direct sunlight while cleaning them since your cleaning solution can evaporate too quickly and leave streaks.

Best Time of Year to Clean Windows 

While a clean window is a clean window, it’s technically easier to clean the exterior windows during the spring and fall. 

“I advise people to clean the outside of their windows in spring or fall when the weather is less extreme,” says Tommy Vannelli, CEO of property maintenance company Tomms Property Solutions. “Cleaning your windows in spring clears up all the dirt and grime that built up over winter, and allows for more sunlight to enter your home.” Come autumn, cleaning the windows removes any debris gathered during the summer months. 

Sokolowski agrees. She adds that the milder temperatures prevent cleaning solutions from drying too quickly and causing streaks. Ultimately, you should avoid extreme heat and freezing weather, which make the process harder and less effective. 

You can clean the interior of the windows any time of the year. Vannelli notes that he likes to make sure he cleans his windows really well every spring, though. He says, “This way, the dust and dander that built up over winter can be cleared away and the windows will be in a great state to deal with extended exposure to sunlight.”

How Often Should You Clean Windows?

You should clean the exterior windows twice per year—in the fall and in the spring—and inside as often as needed. Homes with pets, dust, or lots of traffic may need more consistent cleaning. Aim for about once a month and see how that schedule works, then increase or decrease as needed. For large windows, you may need to just clean the lower portion monthly and tend to the higher areas less frequently. 

Window Cleaning Tips for Streak-Free Glass 

Spritz on, wipe off? Not so fast. Follow these expert tips on cleaning windows and you’ll see the difference!  

• Dust Interior Windows Before Cleaning: “One of the most important things you should do is dust,” Vannelli says. “Make sure you get the window surface, frames, and sills to get rid of the loose dirt.” 
• Rinse Exterior Windows Before Cleaning: Sokolowski says to always rinse your windows before cleaning. “Spray windows with a hose to remove loose dirt and prevent scratching,” she says.
• Use Multiple Cloths: Have one cloth for washing and one cloth for drying. If you notice that the drying cloth is getting dirty, switch to a new one. 
• Clean the Screens: “Don’t forget to remove the screens and rinse them with warm, soapy water,” Vannelli says. “Let them air dry before putting them back.”
• Clean on a Cloudy Day: As mentioned above, avoid cleaning your windows in direct sunlight. This prevents the cleaning solution from drying too quickly and causing streaks. 
• Use an Extension Pole: “A squeegee or microfiber mop with a telescopic pole helps you clean high windows safely from the ground,” Sokolowsky advises.