Cleaning glass and windows in a way that achieves a streak-free, spotless finish is no mean feat.

But, it’s certainly well worth the effort. There are few things that make a home look as modern, elegant and inviting as clean windows.

So, to get the results from your next cleaning spree, keep reading. At Abbey Glass – our team of window and glazing experts have shared their top tips for effective at-home glass cleaning. This includes the best cleaning equipment and materials to use, plus specific, step-by-step guides for each area of the home.

The best cleaning equipment and materials for cleaning windows and glass

When it comes to cleaning glass, half the battle is finding the right equipment and materials. Once these are secured, the rest of the process becomes infinitely easier.

Our recommendations for the best cleaning equipment and materials for cleaning windows and glass are:

• A commercial glass cleaner, which is specifically designed for use on glass
• Standard dish soap
• Lint-free microfibre cloths
• Squeegees
• Rubbing alcohol (to tackle stubborn stains)
• White vinegar (to lift off grease)
• Thick kitchen towel, cotton pads or an old toothbrush (to be used when a smaller stain needs to be cleaned)
• Soft sponges (which don’t come with a scourer)
• Antibacterial cleaner
• For glass in areas like kitchens, one solution won’t address all the different stains that are present. So, including an oven cleaner in this rotation will help ensure a completely pristine finish.

Step-by-step guides for cleaning the different types of glass in the home

Cleaning window glass (both inside and outside)

• Open the window, so that you can access both sides.
• Use a clean dry cloth to dust the window frame.
• Prepare a mixture of standard dish soap and warm soapy water. Use a soft sponge to give the window glass a first clean, starting from the top. This will help to quickly lift off any dirt or dust, and ensure you’re not spreading it around the window as you clean.
• Use a squeegee to remove the cleaning solution. Again, start from the top, and be sure to wipe the squeegee after each glide.
• If any persistent stains are present, apply white vinegar to a cotton pad, then rub the pad on the stained area.
• Spray your commercial glass cleaner on the window, then wipe it across the window using a lint-free microfibre cloth.
• Dry the edges of your window with a clean microfibre cloth (this is particularly important if your window frame is made of wood, as it will minimise the risk of rotting).

Cleaning glass surfaces (such as tables)

• Completely clear the table, and protect any delicate areas (such as wood or metal components) with strong bin liners, secured using masking tape.
• Use a cleaning cloth and standard dish soap to remove any dust or debris.
• If there are any heavy-duty stains on the table, apply white vinegar to a cotton pad, then rub the pad on the stained area.
• Repeat step 3 for any stains on the underside of the table.
• Spray your commercial glass cleaner on the glass, then wipe it across the area in circular motions, using a lint-free microfibre cloth. Then, repeat for the underside of the table.
• Dry and buff the glass using a clean microfibre cloth.

Cleaning glass mirrors

• If there are any heavy-duty stains on the mirror (such as toothpaste stains), apply white vinegar to a cotton pad, then rub the pad on the stained area.
• Spray your commercial glass cleaner onto an old toothbrush. Then, you can use this to clean the mirror’s edges, or other difficult to reach areas (such as the glass around any screws).
• Spray your commercial glass cleaner onto the rest of the mirror, then wipe it across the area following zig zag motions, using a lint-free microfibre cloth.
• Dry and buff the glass using a clean microfibre cloth.

Cleaning glass kitchen splashbacks

• Using a soft sponge, apply standard dish soap to any heavy-duty stains on the splashback. Wipe it into the affected area using circular motions, then remove the solution with warm water.
• If any stubborn stains remain, repeat the process above using warm water.
• Spray your commercial glass cleaner onto the glass, and allow it to sit on the glass’ surface for 5 minutes.
• Wipe the solution across the glass in circular motions, using a lint-free microfibre cloth.
• Dry and buff the glass using a clean microfibre cloth.

At Abbey Glass, we are proud to be Sheffield’s favourite glass cutters and installers. We are trusted by countless clients – both commercial and domestic – throughout Sheffield and the surrounding areas.

If you are looking for new windows, doors, or bespoke cut glass, contact the team at Abbey Glass today.