How to clean windows you can't reach
Do you have a window in a hard-to-reach place? Find out how to clean it in our handy explainer article.
Do you have a window that's hard to reach? Chances are it's not your favourite domestic job. It might even be one of the chores you put on the to-do list marked mañana.
Nevertheless, clean windows are vital for homeowners and renters alike. So, how do you get the job done without risking your neck?
Well, you've got options. Let's take a look at them, starting with the most familiar.
1. Use a ladder
Not everyone feels confident using ladders. But if you do, it can be a great way to clean those hard-to-reach windows without investing in new gear.
Before you put your foot on the first rung, make sure the ladder is in good working condition. You should also avoid using a ladder in bad weather. Aside from putting you at risk, it dramatically reduces your chances of doing a good job.
If you are nervous about using a ladder, having a friend, family member or relative on hand to hold the ladder and give you directions can make a valuable difference.
2. Use an extendable squeegee
If the mountain won't come to you, the proverb goes, then you must go to the mountain. Or, to put it another way, "buy an extendable squeegee".
These useful bits of kit have a telescopic pole, making it ideal for those hard-to-reach spots as well as everyday cleaning. Some extend far enough to reach third-floor windows without leaving the ground.
The key advantage to the extendable squeegee is that you don't have to set foot onto a ladder – a preferable setup for many people.
If you do plump for the extendable squeegee, make sure you clean from top to bottom. Going bottom to top or working at random can lead to streaks.
On a fine day, the air will dry the window for you. But if it needs a bit of help, you can cover the end of the pole with paper towels, newspaper or a microfibre cloth. Alternatively, you could use a broom or other pole.
3. Use a hose
Sometimes, speed is of the essence. At such times, spraying down the window with a hose will do the job. Just be aware that it could cause water marks that will have to be removed later. In other words, it's a quick fix and not a long-lasting solution.
4. Remove the window from the pane
If you've got sliding windows, you have the option of removing the window from its frame, cleaning it and then putting it back.
First, check for any screws or other locking devices that stop you removing the window. Before going any further, you need to remove these. You should also ensure the window isn't locked.
Once removed, you can clean your window however you like. Make sure to dry it off before putting the panel – and any components you removed – back in place.
5. Use a magnetic window cleaner
Magnetic window cleaners are a bit like Marmite. Some people swear by them. Others say they're the emperor's new squeegee.
Fitted with magnets, they clean both sides of the window when applied to just one side. In theory, you can get the outside looking as good as new without leaving the building.
Different models are available, so make sure you do your research before investing.
6. Hire a window cleaner
For many people, cleaning a hard-to-reach window is just one item on a lengthy to-do list. Sometimes, life gets in the way and the job keeps getting pushed back.
In this situation, why not hire a professional cleaner? They'll have the gear and skills necessary to do a good job – and chances are you'll be supporting a local business in the process. Win-win.
7. Self-cleaning glass
These days, you'd be hard-pressed to find a person in the UK who doesn't use labour-saving devices like washing machines. So, why does "self-cleaning glass" still sound like the stuff of sci-fi?
The answer is simple. Self-cleaning glass is expensive. It's not yet produced, distributed or installed at a large enough scale to be sold cheaply.
If you do have the money, however, it can be a great solution to the problem of cleaning hard-to-reach windows. That's because, well… the windows do the job for you.
Self-cleaning glass has a coating with two special qualities. First, it breaks down dirt and organic material when hit by ultraviolet rays. Secondly, it's hydrophilic, meaning rainwater spreads evenly over the glass. This stops streaks from forming.
It's important to note that self-cleaning glass still needs a bit of old-fashioned elbow grease – just not nearly as much as standard glass. For busy people with money to spare, it can take one chore off the list.
How to clean hard-to-reach windows
Whichever method you choose, there are some steps you should take to ensure you do a good job.
First, clean from top to bottom. Do it any other way and your windows will be covered in drips and streaks.
The other key piece of advice is to work in a steady, horizontal motion. Vigorous scrubbing will make the neighbours think you're working hard, sure. But it won't result in a sparkling pane.
It's best to clean windows on a clear, fine day. If it's too hot, the water will dry too quickly and leave streaks. If it's windy, dust and dirt can stick to the panes. And if it's rainy, well… you can figure that one out for yourself.
Microfibre towels are ideal for removing excess moisture and keeping windows clean. Unlike other types of cloth, they don't shed fibres or scratch the glass.
But perhaps the most important piece of advice we can give you is one that applies to so many domestic chores: little and often is better than once in a blue moon. A regular wipe-down will keep your windows nice and clean. The alternative is to leave the job and then spend the day scraping off inches of dirt.
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