What kind of rag to use to clean windows?

Author: Brock Lakin  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Microfiber cloths are absorbent cloths that can be washed and reused to clean windows, leaving them clear, shiny and streak-free. These are best used to apply cleaning solutions to windows, scrub them clean and wipe them dry.

Which cloth to use to clean windows?

A microfiber cloth is the best way to clean windows without streaks.

What are the best towels to use to clean windows?

​​Standard Microfiber

​​Good old normal microfiber (terry or two-pile) can work great on windows and glass, especially if it is a high-quality towel.

What is the best thing to wash outside windows with?

Dawn dish soaps are great for cleaning exterior windows because of their cleaning properties. Using dish soap on outside windows can help remove any caked-on dirt and grime.

What cloth is good for windows?

Microfiber cloths are the agreed upon winners when it comes to glass cleaning. These cloths made of polyester and polyamides are great for sensitive surfaces like glass. They attract lint and dust, and soak up your window cleaning product to leave your windows with that professional-quality finish.

Wash Rags for Window Cleaning

What is the best rag to wash windows?

Microfiber cloths are absorbent cloths that can be washed and reused to clean windows, leaving them clear, shiny and streak-free. These are best used to apply cleaning solutions to windows, scrub them clean and wipe them dry. Best of all, they are soft and pose no risk to your windows.

What do professional window cleaners use to clean windows?

Dish Soap Solution

Believe it or not, one of the most common and effective window cleaning solutions that is used by professionals is a mixture of dish soap and water. Simply mix one gallon of water with two teaspoons of liquid dish soap, and you have a professional window cleaning solution.

Is Dawn dish soap good for washing outside windows?

Dawn as a substitute glass cleaner

One of the most effective ways to clean glass is dish soap – it's what professional window cleaners use when cleaning exterior windows. Dish soap can remove stuck-on dirt and cuts any hazy build-up. It also works well on cloudy mirrors.

What is the best way to clean outside windows without streaking?

Try a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water for a streak-free clean. You can use a spray bottle or dip a rag in the solution, just like you would an ordinary cleaner. If you are worried about the fumes, only use vinegar for outdoor windows or mix a couple drops of essential oils to counteract the smell.

What is the best homemade window cleaning solution with Dawn?

To the original proportion, 2 cups water to half a teaspoon Dawn, simply add a quarter cup of white vinegar for a powerhouse cleaning combo.

Is it better to use a paper towel or rag to clean windows?

Choose lint-free

Microfiber or other lint-free towels won't leave behind little specks on glass surfaces. Newspaper or old, clean cotton diapers are other great options.

What is the best cloth to wipe condensation off windows?

Towels can be too harsh and may scratch your windows and accompanying treatments, so you'll want to use a microfiber cloth made for glass cleaning, such as Norwex window cloths.

What is the best cloth for cleaning glass and mirrors?

To remove fingerprints and foggy residue, all you need is a damp microfiber towel — that's it. You don't even need detergent. The fibers of your microfiber towel are effective enough to lift any residue, leaving your windshield clear of soils.

What is the absolute best way to clean windows?

If there is extensive grime build-up on the glass, use a one-to-one mixture of white vinegar and warm water instead of the dish soap solution. Vinegar is an aggressive detergent that will not streak or spot.

What is the best streak free cloth for windows?

Microfiber cloths: Microfiber cloths are one of the most popular choices for window cleaning because they're effective and affordable.

What do traditional window cleaners use?

  • Bucket of soapy water is the calling card of the traditional window cleaner. ...
  • The squeegee is no more than a simple hand held tool that has a smooth rubber blade, yet in the hands of a skilled window cleaner, with just a few strokes it can leave a window shining clean.

What should you not use to clean windows?

Stay Away from Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals, especially those containing bleach or chlorine, should be kept away from glass surfaces. These chemicals can damage window frames, seals, and surrounding materials.

What is the best cloth to clean windows with?

Microfibre cloths are by far the most popular choice by professional Window Cleaners, so it stands to reason that there's some serious benefits to using them.

Why do my windows look smeared after cleaning?

Too Much Soap in the Solution

Well, window cleaner, this can absolutely apply to your soap solution. Your windows could be looking murky because you're using way too much of the good stuff. When it comes to concentrate, a little goes a long way, even if you're using regular dish soap.

Is Windex or vinegar better for windows?

Spray a stronger mix of 1:1 water and vinegar (or Windex, or glass cleaner) at your window, so that the solution covers most of the glass. (I found Windex to work better, but if you have pets—or kids—who frequently lick outdoor windows, vinegar may be the best route for you.)

Does Dawn leave a residue?

It doesn't all wash off. In fact, it leaves toxic chemical residues behind on your dishes and glasses that pose significant health hazards over the long-term.

What is the best homemade solution for washing outside windows?

The ratio is 2-2-2

To your bucket pour in 2 cups of white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of Dawn and fill with at least 2 gallons of hot water. That's it! So simple!

How do you make your windows crystal clear?

Prepare the cleaning solution: Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Wash the window: Dip your scrubber or sponge into the soapy water and scrub the window in a circular motion, paying extra attention to any stubborn stains.

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