For the best outside window cleaning results, choose between DIY mixes (for maximum value and streak-free shine) or hose-end sprays (for high, hard-to-reach windows).
The best outdoor window cleaner depends on your preferred method: Windex Outdoor Glass Cleaner is best for fast, zero-scrub hose attachments, while a DIY mix of Dawn dish soap, white vinegar, and warm water yields the best streak-free results for traditional scrubbing.
The best, most effective way to clean outside windows is using a squeegee with an extension pole, paired with a mixture of warm water and Dawn dish soap or a 1:1 mixture of water and white vinegar. For high windows, a hose-end sprayer like Windex Outdoor Cleaner (approx. $19) is highly effective, while 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner (approx. $12) works best for heavy algae or grime.
Yes, Dawn dish soap is excellent for washing outside windows. Because it is designed to cut through grease and grime, a highly diluted mixture is very effective at breaking down outdoor dirt, pollen, and bird droppings.
The acidic composition of white vinegar works efficiently to break down the film that can accumulate on your windows. For a basic vinegar cleaning solution, we recommend mixing one part distilled vinegar to 10 parts warm water in a spray bottle.
Yes, a mixture of vinegar and Dawn dish soap is highly effective, inexpensive, and a great DIY alternative to commercial window cleaners. The vinegar cuts through grime and prevents water spots, while the Dawn cuts grease and provides the perfect lubrication for a squeegee to glide across the glass.
Dawn dish soap itself does not chemically kill algae. However, it acts as an excellent surfactant. It breaks the surface tension of water and lifts algae off surfaces, making it highly effective when used alongside mechanical scrubbing or as an additive in DIY exterior cleaning solutions.
Professional window cleaners generally use either purified water (for water-fed poles) or a mixture of water and specialized detergents (for traditional squeegee work).
To make the solution is simple and easy on the wallet! Pour equal parts of vinegar and Dawn into a spray bottle. Gently shake, then spray liberally onto the surface to be cleaned. I have found the best results is when I use it to clean chrome shower and sink fixtures.
Let it sit for 10-20 minutes. The vinegar will help loosen the residue, so you can wipe it away more easily. Bird droppings or other tough grime: pre-soak the area with a vinegar solution and allow it to soften before scrubbing with a damp microfiber cloth.
Vinegar-and-water-based solutions are another effective window cleaner using what you likely already have. Just mix one part distilled white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.
For sparkling outside windows, you can use a simple DIY mix of 2 gallons of hot water, 2 cups of white vinegar (for shine and hard water), and 2 tablespoons of liquid dish soap. For harder-to-reach or heavily soiled windows, a commercial hose-attachment cleaner works best.
The Hidden Drawbacks of Dish Soap on Glass
Soapy water can seep into seals, cracks, or edges — especially on car windows or double-pane glass. This water may cause mold, seal deterioration, and long-term damage. Unlike specialized glass cleaners, dish soap doesn't evaporate quickly or prevent streaking.
Best window cleaner for streak-free windows
To clean your outside windows yourself, remove the screens and hose down loose dirt. Scrub the glass with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dish soap using a sponge or mop. Squeegee the water off top to bottom, and wipe the edges with a dry microfiber cloth.
Professional window washers generally rely on basic liquid dish soap, heavily favoring Blue Dawn for its powerful grease-cutting suds and slip. However, for commercial purposes or to prevent hard water stains, many pros switch to specialized, industry-grade concentrates.
With the promise of food and protection, your porch or patio is irresistible to these little critters. While chemical-laden insecticides can effectively eliminate spider infestations, vinegar offers a non-toxic alternative. How does it work? Spiders dislike vinegar's pungent odor, and they avoid areas treated with it.
While white vinegar is an excellent natural cleaner, its acidity means it can damage certain surfaces, strip finishes, or cause rust. You should generally avoid using it on:
The ultimate lazy shower hack is the "Shower and Soak" method. Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and original blue Dawn dish soap in a soap-dispensing dish brush. Keep it in your shower, and while your hair conditioner sits, give the walls a quick scrub. Rinse as you shower for a perpetually clean bathroom.
For the best streak-free clean, mix 2 cups distilled water, 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap (like Dawn) in a spray bottle. Vinegar cuts through grime, while the water and soap allow a squeegee to glide smoothly without leaving any residue.
1) Health & Safety:
If you were to use them all day, every day, for window cleaning, the risk of an accident would be extremely high. As a company, it puts staff at risk of potential, life-changing and even threatening injuries.
Surfaces to avoid with Dawn® Powerwash: Marble countertops, sink basins, and backsplashes. Wood, including unsealed, varnished, stained, or painted wood surfaces & furniture.
Use a pool brush to vigorously scrub any pool surfaces covered in algae, including the walls, floors and steps. Apply a green algaecide according to the directions on the label. Let the water circulate for 24 hours, then brush the pool surfaces again. Vacuum or backwash to remove any remaining dead algae.
For a quick, streak-free shine on glass and mirrors, the best Windex alternative is a simple mix of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part distilled water. This homemade DIY solution cuts through grime, evaporates cleanly, and works at a fraction of the cost.