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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 15 (from laksa004)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa015.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/","crawl_time":1775271200,"first_indexed_time":1512996641,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,104homestead!\/window-washing-trick\/ s443","src_root_hash":"5523207178546689415","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Naturally Clean Exterior Windows the Easy Way","meta_descriptions":["Tired of streaky outside windows? Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Tired of streaky outside windows? Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works.\nI’m convinced that window washing exists solely to humble us. You scrub. You rinse. You squint. You inspect the glass from six inches away like a detective. You finally sit down with your coffee… and there they are. Streaks. Smudges. Random mystery spots that show up only after you sit down.\nExterior windows are the worst offenders. Dirt, pollen, bug guts, and whatever else the weather throws at them all season long. Every cleaner promises better results and somehow delivers worse ones.\nAfter a lot of trial, error, and muttering under my breath, I’ve landed on a simple, natural way to clean exterior windows that really works. No harsh chemicals. No pressure washer. Just a method that doesn’t have me redoing the same window over and over.\nWhy Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier\nI’ll admit, I used to assume stronger cleaners meant cleaner windows. Turns out, that’s often the problem. Most commercial window cleaners leave behind residue. A little sun or breeze and it’s already dried in place. Hello, streaks.\nA vinegar-based cleaner, used correctly, cuts through grime without leaving a film behind. Pair that with a good squeegee and proper technique, and you get glass that stays clear longer.\nThis approach also keeps overspray safer for plants, siding, and the soil around your home. That matters to me, especially here in Maine where everything grows all at once and I don’t want to mess it up.\nMy Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe\nThis is what I use on my own windows. It’s simple, inexpensive, and made from three things I already keep on hand.\nNatural Window Cleaning Solution\nIngredients\nWhite vinegar\nWarm water\nA tiny drop of liquid dish soap (optional)\nHow I Mix It\nI use a bucket or large spray bottle and mix:\n1 part white vinegar\n1 part warm water\nIf the windows are especially grimy, I’ll add one small drop of dish soap, and I mean small. Too much soap is a fast track to streaks.\nWhy This Works\nVinegar handles pollen, mineral buildup, and the usual outdoor mess.\nWarm water just helps things come off easier.\nA tiny bit of soap helps with greasy spots without turning streaky.\nThis recipe fits right in with the other\nnatural cleaning solutions I use around the house\n, all made with common household ingredients instead of specialty products.\nTools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier\nYou don’t need much, but the right tools matter. Here’s what I use:\nA bucket or spray bottle\nA scrubber or sponge\nA few clean cloths for wiping edges\nA good window squeegee\nA bad squeegee makes this job way more frustrating. A decent squeegee will save you time, frustration, and repeated do-overs.\nThis was the missing piece for me… the order matters.\nPrep the Windows First:\nBefore any cleaner touches the glass, I…\nKnock off loose dirt, cobwebs, and debris\nRinse especially dusty windows with plain water if needed\nSkipping this step just drags grit across the glass and makes more work later.\nScrub With the Cleaning Solution:\nI apply the vinegar solution generously and scrub the entire window surface. Don’t be shy here. You want to loosen everything before you ever pick up the squeegee. Spray again.\nSqueegee From Top to Bottom:\nStarting at the top corner, I pull the squeegee straight down in smooth passes. After each pass, I wipe the blade with a cloth. That step alone prevents a lot of streaking.\nWipe the Edges:\nOnce the glass is done, I wipe the edges and frame where water likes to collect. This keeps drips from sneaking back onto the glass later.\nHow to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows\nStreaks almost always mean one of these happened.\nCleaning in direct sun. The solution dries too fast. Cloudy days are your friend.\nToo much soap. Less is more.\nDirty squeegee blade. Wipe it often.\nHard water residue. Vinegar helps, but stubborn buildup may need a second pass.\nI’ve found that slowing down just a little and wiping the blade between passes makes the biggest difference.\nWhat About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces?\nIn my experience, this diluted vinegar solution hasn’t harmed plants below the windows. That said, I avoid soaking leaves directly and rinse plants with plain water if I’m cleaning on a hot day.\nIf you’re dealing with tougher buildup elsewhere, this is where\nstronger natural cleaners like washing soda\ncome into play, which I save for tougher jobs, not windows.\nWhen Vinegar Isn’t Enough\nNot every surface likes vinegar. Some glass surfaces around the house need a different approach.\nFor example,\nwood stove glass\nbuilds up soot in a way windows don’t, and it benefits from a different cleaning method entirely. The same goes for\ngreasy stovetops and ovens\n, where vinegar alone often isn’t enough.\nSome messes just need a different approach. Vinegar isn’t always the answer.\nStill Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning?\nYou’re not alone. Here are a few that come up often.\nPin this for the next time your outside windows need a natural, streak-free clean.\nWindow washing may never be fun, but it doesn’t have to feel like a losing battle. It’s still window washing, but it’s a lot less annoying. And once you get the hang of it, the whole process goes faster than you’d expect.\nI’d love to hear from you. Do you clean your windows naturally, or is this something you’ve been avoiding altogether? Leave a comment and tell me what’s worked, or what you’re still struggling with.\nJessica Knowles\nOwner, Writer at The 104 Homesteader\nJessica Knowles is a long-time Maine homesteader and the voice behind\nThe 104 Homestead\nand\nForget-Me-Not Quail Farm\n. With over a decade of experience in small-scale farming and self-sufficiency, she shares practical tips to help you build a homestead that works for real life, not just Pinterest.","attrs_markdown":"![](https:\/\/ct.pinterest.com\/v3\/?event=init&tid=2612553617510&pd[em]=<hashed_email_address>&noscript=1)\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#main)\n\nReady to Start Homesteading? Get Your Free Workbook with Seasonal Tips and Goal-Setting Worksheets\n\n[Click here\\!](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/free-homesteading-workbook\/)\n\n[0](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/cart\/)\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/ \"Return to the site’s homepage.\")\n- [About Me](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/about-the-author\/ \"Learn About Me\")\n- [Let’s Connect](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/contact-me\/ \"Connect on Social Media\")\n\n[![Hand-drawn logo for The 104 Homestead featuring a pencil-style illustration of a chicken standing beside sprigs of grass and small flowers, with the text “The 104 Homestead – Established 2012” in brown serif lettering inside an oval border.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/The-104-Homestead-Logo.jpg)](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/)\n\n- [Homestead Topics](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/latest\/ \"All new blog posts.\")\n  - [Simple Living Skills](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-living\/ \"Link to posts on how to live as a homesteader.\")\n  - [Backyard Gardening](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/backyard-garden\/ \"Link to posts on gardening.\")\n  - [Homestead Animals](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-animals\/ \"Link to posts on raising homestead animals.\")\n  - [Real Food Recipes](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/real-food\/ \"Link to real food posts.\")\n  - [Homesteading in Maine](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/tag\/homesteading-maine\/)\n- [Farm Life Shop](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/shop\/)\n\n[Download Free Workbook](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/free-homesteading-workbook\/)\n\n[![Hand-drawn logo for The 104 Homestead featuring a pencil-style illustration of a chicken standing beside sprigs of grass and small flowers, with the text “The 104 Homestead – Established 2012” in brown serif lettering inside an oval border.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/The-104-Homestead-Logo.jpg)](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/) » [Simple Living Skills](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-living\/)\n\n# How to Naturally Clean Exterior Windows (Without the Streaks)\n[Simple Living Skills](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-living\/)\n\nBy[Jessica Knowles](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/about-the-author\/)\n\nDecember 15, 2025\n\nReading Time: 6 minutes\n\n*Tired of streaky outside windows? Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works.*\n\n![Clean exterior window letting in soft daylight, with white framed panes and small potted plants arranged on the windowsill.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows2.jpg)\n\nI’m convinced that window washing exists solely to humble us. You scrub. You rinse. You squint. You inspect the glass from six inches away like a detective. You finally sit down with your coffee… and there they are. Streaks. Smudges. Random mystery spots that show up only after you sit down.\n\nExterior windows are the worst offenders. Dirt, pollen, bug guts, and whatever else the weather throws at them all season long. Every cleaner promises better results and somehow delivers worse ones.\n\nAfter a lot of trial, error, and muttering under my breath, I’ve landed on a simple, natural way to clean exterior windows that really works. No harsh chemicals. No pressure washer. Just a method that doesn’t have me redoing the same window over and over.\n\nWhat You’ll Learn About Naturally Cleaning Exterior Windows\n\n- [Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#h-why-going-natural-makes-window-cleaning-easier)\n- [My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#my-goto-natural-exterior-window-cleaning-recipe)\n  - [Natural Window Cleaning Solution](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#natural-window-cleaning-solution)\n- [Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#tools-that-make-exterior-window-cleaning-easier)\n- [How I Naturally Clean Exterior Windows, Step by Step](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#how-i-naturally-clean-exterior-windows-step-by-step)\n  - [How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#how-to-avoid-streaks-on-outside-windows)\n- [What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces?](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#what-about-plants-siding-and-nearby-surfaces)\n- [When Vinegar Isn't Enough](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#h-when-vinegar-isn-t-enough)\n- [Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning?](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#h-still-wondering-about-natural-window-cleaning)\n## Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier\nI’ll admit, I used to assume stronger cleaners meant cleaner windows. Turns out, that’s often the problem. Most commercial window cleaners leave behind residue. A little sun or breeze and it’s already dried in place. Hello, streaks.\n\nA vinegar-based cleaner, used correctly, cuts through grime without leaving a film behind. Pair that with a good squeegee and proper technique, and you get glass that stays clear longer.\n\nThis approach also keeps overspray safer for plants, siding, and the soil around your home. That matters to me, especially here in Maine where everything grows all at once and I don’t want to mess it up.\n\n## My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe\nThis is what I use on my own windows. It’s simple, inexpensive, and made from three things I already keep on hand.\n\n### Natural Window Cleaning Solution\n**Ingredients**\n\n- White vinegar\n- Warm water\n- A tiny drop of liquid dish soap (optional)\n\n![Bottle of distilled white vinegar sitting on a countertop, used as the base for a natural exterior window cleaning solution.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows4.jpg)\n\n**How I Mix It**  \nI use a bucket or large spray bottle and mix:\n\n- 1 part white vinegar\n- 1 part warm water\n\nIf the windows are especially grimy, I’ll add one small drop of dish soap, and I mean small. Too much soap is a fast track to streaks.\n\n**Why This Works**\n\n- Vinegar handles pollen, mineral buildup, and the usual outdoor mess.\n- Warm water just helps things come off easier.\n- A tiny bit of soap helps with greasy spots without turning streaky.\n\nThis recipe fits right in with the other [natural cleaning solutions I use around the house](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/diy-cleaning-recipes\/), all made with common household ingredients instead of specialty products.\n\n## Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier\nYou don’t need much, but the right tools matter. Here’s what I use:\n\n- A bucket or spray bottle\n- A scrubber or sponge\n- A few clean cloths for wiping edges\n- [A good window squeegee](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XWoZYE)\n\n![Exterior window being cleaned with a squeegee attached to an extension pole, showing streak-free glass on a home’s upper window.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows5.jpg)\n\nA bad squeegee makes this job way more frustrating. A decent squeegee will save you time, frustration, and repeated do-overs.\n\n## How I Naturally Clean Exterior Windows, Step by Step\nThis was the missing piece for me… the order matters.\n\n**Prep the Windows First:** Before any cleaner touches the glass, I…\n\n- Knock off loose dirt, cobwebs, and debris\n- Rinse especially dusty windows with plain water if needed\n\nSkipping this step just drags grit across the glass and makes more work later.\n\n![Hand wearing a pink rubber glove wiping a window with a green cloth while natural cleaning solution drips down the glass.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows3.jpg)\n\n**Scrub With the Cleaning Solution:** I apply the vinegar solution generously and scrub the entire window surface. Don’t be shy here. You want to loosen everything before you ever pick up the squeegee. Spray again.\n\n**Squeegee From Top to Bottom:** Starting at the top corner, I pull the squeegee straight down in smooth passes. After each pass, I wipe the blade with a cloth. That step alone prevents a lot of streaking.\n\n![Close-up of a squeegee pulling soapy water down a window, leaving a clear, streak-free section of glass behind.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows6.jpg)\n\n**Wipe the Edges:** Once the glass is done, I wipe the edges and frame where water likes to collect. This keeps drips from sneaking back onto the glass later.\n\n### How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows\nStreaks almost always mean one of these happened.\n\n- Cleaning in direct sun. The solution dries too fast. Cloudy days are your friend.\n- Too much soap. Less is more.\n- Dirty squeegee blade. Wipe it often.\n- Hard water residue. Vinegar helps, but stubborn buildup may need a second pass.\n\nI’ve found that slowing down just a little and wiping the blade between passes makes the biggest difference.\n\n## What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces?\nIn my experience, this diluted vinegar solution hasn’t harmed plants below the windows. That said, I avoid soaking leaves directly and rinse plants with plain water if I’m cleaning on a hot day.\n\nIf you’re dealing with tougher buildup elsewhere, this is where [stronger natural cleaners like washing soda](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/diy-washing-soda\/) come into play, which I save for tougher jobs, not windows.\n\n## When Vinegar Isn’t Enough\nNot every surface likes vinegar. Some glass surfaces around the house need a different approach.\n\nFor example, [wood stove glass](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/how-to-clean-wood-stove-glass\/) builds up soot in a way windows don’t, and it benefits from a different cleaning method entirely. The same goes for [greasy stovetops and ovens](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/dirty-ovens-greasy-stovetops\/), where vinegar alone often isn’t enough.\n\nSome messes just need a different approach. Vinegar isn’t always the answer.\n\n## Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning?\nYou’re not alone. Here are a few that come up often.\n\nCan you really clean exterior windows with vinegar?\n\nYes. When it’s diluted properly and paired with a squeegee, vinegar is excellent at cutting residue without leaving streaks.\n\nWhat’s the best time of day to wash outside windows?\n\nEarly morning or a cloudy day is ideal. Direct sunlight causes the cleaner to dry too fast.\n\nDo I have to use a squeegee?\n\nYou don’t have to, but it makes a big difference. Cleaning without one is possible, but streaks are much more likely.\n\nIs vinegar safe for plants around the house?\n\nIn diluted form, I haven’t had issues. I still avoid spraying plants directly and rinse them if needed.\n\nWhy do my windows still look streaky after cleaning?\n\nUsually it’s too much soap, a dirty squeegee blade, or cleaning in direct sun.\n\nPin this for the next time your outside windows need a natural, streak-free clean.\n\n![Pinterest-style graphic reading “Clean Outside Windows Naturally” above a bright kitchen window with potted plants and a white teapot on the sill.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows1.jpg)\n\nWindow washing may never be fun, but it doesn’t have to feel like a losing battle. It’s still window washing, but it’s a lot less annoying. And once you get the hang of it, the whole process goes faster than you’d expect.\n\nI’d love to hear from you. Do you clean your windows naturally, or is this something you’ve been avoiding altogether? Leave a comment and tell me what’s worked, or what you’re still struggling with.\n\nPost Tags:  [\\#Natural Cleaning Methods](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/tag\/natural-cleaning-methods\/ \"Natural Cleaning Methods\")\n\n**[Jessica Knowles](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/author\/jessica\/ \"Posts by Jessica Knowles\")**\n\nOwner, Writer at The 104 Homesteader\n\nJessica Knowles is a long-time Maine homesteader and the voice behind [The 104 Homestead](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/) and [Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm](https:\/\/forgetmenotquailfarm.com\/). With over a decade of experience in small-scale farming and self-sufficiency, she shares practical tips to help you build a homestead that works for real life, not just Pinterest.\n\n## Post navigation\n[PreviousRaising Goats on the Homestead – Assessing Expenses](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/raising-goats-expenses\/)\n\n[NextChocolate Pudding Pie (Homemade Version + Quick No-Bake Option)](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/chocolate-pudding-pie\/)\n\n### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#respond)\nThis site uses Akismet to reduce spam. [Learn how your comment data is processed.](https:\/\/akismet.com\/privacy\/)\n\n## 6 Comments\n1. **[window washer brooklyn](https:\/\/licwindowcleaners.com\/)** says:\n   \n   [at](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-29574)\n   \n   We always recommend using distilled water in your cleaning solution when washing your windows. The reason you’re getting the streaks isn’t the cleaning tool you’re using but instead the type of water you’re using. Hard water contains minerals that’re left behind once the water dries up and that’s what’s coming the streaks. But the newspaper method does work, I must say.\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-29574)\n2. **Windowman** says:\n   \n   [at](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-25707)\n   \n   Squeegee inside as well, newspaper smewspaper… I’m a professional window cleaner for the last 37 years I know from which I speak. Also, if you use a power washer outside you will leave hard water stains on your windows.\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-25707)\n3. **David** says:\n   \n   [at](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-25703)\n   \n   Just get a window cleaner its what were paid to do\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-25703)\n4. **[Sarasota Windows](https:\/\/www.srqwindows.com\/)** says:\n   \n   [at](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-24044)\n   \n   Good call with the diluted vinegar for an exterior window cleaning solution. Nothing takes away from a beautiful view like a dilapidated flower bed! Appreciate the thoroughness of your blog, and quality post\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-24044)\n5. **[Rob K](https:\/\/www.srqwindows.com\/)** says:\n   \n   [at](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-23089)\n   \n   Good call with the diluted vinegar for an exterior window cleaning solution. Nothing takes away from a beautiful view like a dilapidated flower bed! Appreciate the thoroughness of your blog, and quality post\\!\n   \n   Rob K\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-23089)\n6. **[Mark Murphy](http:\/\/www.apluswindowcleaning.net\/cleaning-services)** says:\n   \n   [at](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-21313)\n   \n   I never knew that a simple newspaper with black text on white paper is a great way to clean windows. My wife and I have been thinking of getting a new house, and we want to make sure that the nice big front windows stay looking great to impress our neighbors. I will be sure to tell my wife that we should try and find a newspaper that we can use to clean the windows\\!\n   \n   [Reply](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/window-washing-trick\/#comment-21313)\n\n#### Dreaming of a simpler, more self-reliant life?\n![Jessica Knowles holding pea seeds in her hand, smiling in front of a colorful vegetable and flower garden with cabbage, calendula, and amaranth.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Jessica-Knowles-of-The-104-Homestead.jpg)\n\nI’m Jessica Knowles, a longtime homesteader here in Maine. For over a decade, I’ve been raising animals, growing food, and learning through plenty of trial and error. If you’re ready to dig in and build your own practical homesteading skills, you’re in the right place. I’m here to share what’s worked for me, and what hasn’t, so you can start your own journey with a little more confidence (and a lot fewer mistakes).\n\n[Learn about jessica](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/about-the-author\/)\n\n![Featured in Down East: The Magazine of Maine since 1954.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/featured-in-down-east-magazine.png)\n\n[![A graphic for my '5 Mistakes' quail-raising book series.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Buy-the-5-Mistakes-Quail-Raising-Series-on-Amazon.png)](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3BrA6Ru)\n\n- [HOMESTEAD LIVING](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-living\/ \"Link to posts on how to live as a homesteader.\")\n- [REAL FOOD](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/real-food\/ \"Link to real food posts.\")\n- [BACKYARD GARDEN](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/backyard-garden\/ \"Link to posts on gardening.\")\n- [HOMESTEAD ANIMALS](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-animals\/ \"Link to posts on raising homestead animals.\")\n\n###### **Become Self-Sufficient**\n[Upcycle Pill Bottles (22 Ideas!)](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/new-uses-old-pill-bottles\/)  \n[Upcycle Old Holiday Cards](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/new-uses-old-greeting-cards\/)  \n[Goat Milk Shampoo Bar Recipe](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/goat-milk-shampoo-bars\/)  \n[DIY Unpaper Towels Guide](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/unpaper-towels\/)  \n[Upcycle Those Old Bed Sheets](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/16-uses-old-bed-sheets\/)\n\n###### **Get Cooking — Yum\\!**\n[Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/sourdough-donut\/)  \n[Peel Tomatoes (No Boiling!)](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/peel-tomatoes\/)  \n[Crispy Homemade Dill Pickles](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/crispy-dill-pickle-recipe\/)  \n[4 Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/4-cheese-macaroni\/)  \n[Freeze Spaghetti Squash](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/freeze-spaghetti-squash\/)\n\n###### **Transform Your Green Thumb**\n[Easy DIY Garden Trellises](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/low-cost-no-cost-trellis-ideas\/)  \n[Winter Sowing Made Simple](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/winter-sowing-by-zone\/)  \n[Winter Sowing by Zone](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/winter-sowing-by-zone\/)  \n[Burn Barrel Basics for Homes](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/burn-barrel-101\/)  \n[Grow Hyssop in Your Garden](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/hyssop-need-plant-herb\/)\n\n###### **Add Some Animals**\n[Chicken-Safe Plants List](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/chicken-safe-plants\/)  \n[Cheap DIY Nesting Boxes](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/nest-box-hacks\/)  \n[Fix Spraddle Leg with a Glass](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/fixing-spraddle-leg-drinking-glass\/)  \n[Why Sand is Best for Coops](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/sand-in-chicken-coop\/)  \n[Weird (But Normal) Quail Behavior](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/odd-quail-behavior\/)\n\nAs a fellow homesteader, it's important to remember that I'm not a doctor, lawyer, veterinarian, or Martha Stewart, and any advice you've gained from this site should be used wisely and responsibly.\n\nAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made on [Amazon.com](https:\/\/amzn.to\/475EKzD). Curious what I use around the homestead? It’s all saved in [my Amazon storefront](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/shop\/influencer-7fba9100?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_7JXZJKDTH67Y1WHHTNQ7_1).\n\n[**My Commitment to Honest Homesteading Advice**](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/commitment-to-honest-homesteading-advice\/)\n\n[Affiliate Disclosure](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/affiliate-disclosure\/)  \n[Terms & Conditions](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/terms-conditions\/)  \n[Advertising & Sponsorships](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/advertise\/)  \n[Disclosure and Privacy Policy](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/privacy-policies\/)  \n© 2025 The 104 Homestead\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/)\n- [About Me](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/about-the-author\/)\n- [Let’s Connect](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/contact-me\/)\n- [Homestead Topics](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/latest\/)\n  - [Simple Living Skills](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-living\/)\n  - [Backyard Gardening](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/backyard-garden\/)\n  - [Homestead Animals](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/homestead-animals\/)\n  - [Real Food Recipes](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/topics\/real-food\/)\n  - [Homesteading in Maine](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/tag\/homesteading-maine\/)\n- [Free Homesteading Workbook](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/free-homesteading-workbook\/)\n\n[0](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/cart\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"*Tired of streaky outside windows? Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works.*\n\n![Clean exterior window letting in soft daylight, with white framed panes and small potted plants arranged on the windowsill.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows2.jpg)\n\nI’m convinced that window washing exists solely to humble us. You scrub. You rinse. You squint. You inspect the glass from six inches away like a detective. You finally sit down with your coffee… and there they are. Streaks. Smudges. Random mystery spots that show up only after you sit down.\n\nExterior windows are the worst offenders. Dirt, pollen, bug guts, and whatever else the weather throws at them all season long. Every cleaner promises better results and somehow delivers worse ones.\n\nAfter a lot of trial, error, and muttering under my breath, I’ve landed on a simple, natural way to clean exterior windows that really works. No harsh chemicals. No pressure washer. Just a method that doesn’t have me redoing the same window over and over.\n\n## Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier\nI’ll admit, I used to assume stronger cleaners meant cleaner windows. Turns out, that’s often the problem. Most commercial window cleaners leave behind residue. A little sun or breeze and it’s already dried in place. Hello, streaks.\n\nA vinegar-based cleaner, used correctly, cuts through grime without leaving a film behind. Pair that with a good squeegee and proper technique, and you get glass that stays clear longer.\n\nThis approach also keeps overspray safer for plants, siding, and the soil around your home. That matters to me, especially here in Maine where everything grows all at once and I don’t want to mess it up.\n\n## My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe\nThis is what I use on my own windows. It’s simple, inexpensive, and made from three things I already keep on hand.\n\n### Natural Window Cleaning Solution\n**Ingredients**\n\n- White vinegar\n- Warm water\n- A tiny drop of liquid dish soap (optional)\n\n![Bottle of distilled white vinegar sitting on a countertop, used as the base for a natural exterior window cleaning solution.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows4.jpg)\n\n**How I Mix It**  \nI use a bucket or large spray bottle and mix:\n\n- 1 part white vinegar\n- 1 part warm water\n\nIf the windows are especially grimy, I’ll add one small drop of dish soap, and I mean small. Too much soap is a fast track to streaks.\n\n**Why This Works**\n\n- Vinegar handles pollen, mineral buildup, and the usual outdoor mess.\n- Warm water just helps things come off easier.\n- A tiny bit of soap helps with greasy spots without turning streaky.\n\nThis recipe fits right in with the other [natural cleaning solutions I use around the house](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/diy-cleaning-recipes\/), all made with common household ingredients instead of specialty products.\n\n## Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier\nYou don’t need much, but the right tools matter. Here’s what I use:\n\n- A bucket or spray bottle\n- A scrubber or sponge\n- A few clean cloths for wiping edges\n- [A good window squeegee](https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XWoZYE)\n\n![Exterior window being cleaned with a squeegee attached to an extension pole, showing streak-free glass on a home’s upper window.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows5.jpg)\n\nA bad squeegee makes this job way more frustrating. A decent squeegee will save you time, frustration, and repeated do-overs.\n\nThis was the missing piece for me… the order matters.\n\n**Prep the Windows First:** Before any cleaner touches the glass, I…\n\n- Knock off loose dirt, cobwebs, and debris\n- Rinse especially dusty windows with plain water if needed\n\nSkipping this step just drags grit across the glass and makes more work later.\n\n![Hand wearing a pink rubber glove wiping a window with a green cloth while natural cleaning solution drips down the glass.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows3.jpg)\n\n**Scrub With the Cleaning Solution:** I apply the vinegar solution generously and scrub the entire window surface. Don’t be shy here. You want to loosen everything before you ever pick up the squeegee. Spray again.\n\n**Squeegee From Top to Bottom:** Starting at the top corner, I pull the squeegee straight down in smooth passes. After each pass, I wipe the blade with a cloth. That step alone prevents a lot of streaking.\n\n![Close-up of a squeegee pulling soapy water down a window, leaving a clear, streak-free section of glass behind.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows6.jpg)\n\n**Wipe the Edges:** Once the glass is done, I wipe the edges and frame where water likes to collect. This keeps drips from sneaking back onto the glass later.\n\n### How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows\nStreaks almost always mean one of these happened.\n\n- Cleaning in direct sun. The solution dries too fast. Cloudy days are your friend.\n- Too much soap. Less is more.\n- Dirty squeegee blade. Wipe it often.\n- Hard water residue. Vinegar helps, but stubborn buildup may need a second pass.\n\nI’ve found that slowing down just a little and wiping the blade between passes makes the biggest difference.\n\n## What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces?\nIn my experience, this diluted vinegar solution hasn’t harmed plants below the windows. That said, I avoid soaking leaves directly and rinse plants with plain water if I’m cleaning on a hot day.\n\nIf you’re dealing with tougher buildup elsewhere, this is where [stronger natural cleaners like washing soda](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/diy-washing-soda\/) come into play, which I save for tougher jobs, not windows.\n\n## When Vinegar Isn’t Enough\nNot every surface likes vinegar. Some glass surfaces around the house need a different approach.\n\nFor example, [wood stove glass](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/how-to-clean-wood-stove-glass\/) builds up soot in a way windows don’t, and it benefits from a different cleaning method entirely. The same goes for [greasy stovetops and ovens](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/dirty-ovens-greasy-stovetops\/), where vinegar alone often isn’t enough.\n\nSome messes just need a different approach. Vinegar isn’t always the answer.\n\n## Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning?\nYou’re not alone. Here are a few that come up often.\n\nPin this for the next time your outside windows need a natural, streak-free clean.\n\n![Pinterest-style graphic reading “Clean Outside Windows Naturally” above a bright kitchen window with potted plants and a white teapot on the sill.](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/12\/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows1.jpg)\n\nWindow washing may never be fun, but it doesn’t have to feel like a losing battle. It’s still window washing, but it’s a lot less annoying. And once you get the hang of it, the whole process goes faster than you’d expect.\n\nI’d love to hear from you. Do you clean your windows naturally, or is this something you’ve been avoiding altogether? Leave a comment and tell me what’s worked, or what you’re still struggling with.\n\n**[Jessica Knowles](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/author\/jessica\/ \"Posts by Jessica Knowles\")**\n\nOwner, Writer at The 104 Homesteader\n\nJessica Knowles is a long-time Maine homesteader and the voice behind [The 104 Homestead](https:\/\/104homestead.com\/) and [Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm](https:\/\/forgetmenotquailfarm.com\/). With over a decade of experience in small-scale farming and self-sufficiency, she shares practical tips to help you build a homestead that works for real life, not just Pinterest.","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Tired of streaky outside windows? Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works. I’m convinced that window washing exists solely to humble us. You scrub. You rinse. You squint. You inspect the glass from six inches away like a detective. You finally sit down with your coffee… and there they are. Streaks. Smudges. Random mystery spots that show up only after you sit down. Exterior windows are the worst offenders. Dirt, pollen, bug guts, and whatever else the weather throws at them all season long. Every cleaner promises better results and somehow delivers worse ones. After a lot of trial, error, and muttering under my breath, I’ve landed on a simple, natural way to clean exterior windows that really works. No harsh chemicals. No pressure washer. Just a method that doesn’t have me redoing the same window over and over. Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier I’ll admit, I used to assume stronger cleaners meant cleaner windows. Turns out, that’s often the problem. Most commercial window cleaners leave behind residue. A little sun or breeze and it’s already dried in place. Hello, streaks. A vinegar-based cleaner, used correctly, cuts through grime without leaving a film behind. Pair that with a good squeegee and proper technique, and you get glass that stays clear longer. This approach also keeps overspray safer for plants, siding, and the soil around your home. That matters to me, especially here in Maine where everything grows all at once and I don’t want to mess it up. My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe This is what I use on my own windows. It’s simple, inexpensive, and made from three things I already keep on hand. Natural Window Cleaning Solution Ingredients White vinegar Warm water A tiny drop of liquid dish soap (optional) How I Mix It I use a bucket or large spray bottle and mix: 1 part white vinegar 1 part warm water If the windows are especially grimy, I’ll add one small drop of dish soap, and I mean small. Too much soap is a fast track to streaks. Why This Works Vinegar handles pollen, mineral buildup, and the usual outdoor mess. Warm water just helps things come off easier. A tiny bit of soap helps with greasy spots without turning streaky. This recipe fits right in with the other natural cleaning solutions I use around the house , all made with common household ingredients instead of specialty products. Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier You don’t need much, but the right tools matter. Here’s what I use: A bucket or spray bottle A scrubber or sponge A few clean cloths for wiping edges A good window squeegee A bad squeegee makes this job way more frustrating. A decent squeegee will save you time, frustration, and repeated do-overs. This was the missing piece for me… the order matters. Prep the Windows First: Before any cleaner touches the glass, I… Knock off loose dirt, cobwebs, and debris Rinse especially dusty windows with plain water if needed Skipping this step just drags grit across the glass and makes more work later. Scrub With the Cleaning Solution: I apply the vinegar solution generously and scrub the entire window surface. Don’t be shy here. You want to loosen everything before you ever pick up the squeegee. Spray again. Squeegee From Top to Bottom: Starting at the top corner, I pull the squeegee straight down in smooth passes. After each pass, I wipe the blade with a cloth. That step alone prevents a lot of streaking. Wipe the Edges: Once the glass is done, I wipe the edges and frame where water likes to collect. This keeps drips from sneaking back onto the glass later. How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows Streaks almost always mean one of these happened. Cleaning in direct sun. The solution dries too fast. Cloudy days are your friend. Too much soap. Less is more. Dirty squeegee blade. Wipe it often. Hard water residue. Vinegar helps, but stubborn buildup may need a second pass. I’ve found that slowing down just a little and wiping the blade between passes makes the biggest difference. What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces? In my experience, this diluted vinegar solution hasn’t harmed plants below the windows. That said, I avoid soaking leaves directly and rinse plants with plain water if I’m cleaning on a hot day. If you’re dealing with tougher buildup elsewhere, this is where stronger natural cleaners like washing soda come into play, which I save for tougher jobs, not windows. When Vinegar Isn’t Enough Not every surface likes vinegar. Some glass surfaces around the house need a different approach. For example, wood stove glass builds up soot in a way windows don’t, and it benefits from a different cleaning method entirely. The same goes for greasy stovetops and ovens , where vinegar alone often isn’t enough. Some messes just need a different approach. Vinegar isn’t always the answer. Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning? You’re not alone. Here are a few that come up often. Pin this for the next time your outside windows need a natural, streak-free clean. Window washing may never be fun, but it doesn’t have to feel like a losing battle. It’s still window washing, but it’s a lot less annoying. And once you get the hang of it, the whole process goes faster than you’d expect. I’d love to hear from you. Do you clean your windows naturally, or is this something you’ve been avoiding altogether? Leave a comment and tell me what’s worked, or what you’re still struggling with. Jessica Knowles Owner, Writer at The 104 Homesteader Jessica Knowles is a long-time Maine homesteader and the voice behind The 104 Homestead and Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm . With over a decade of experience in small-scale farming and self-sufficiency, she shares practical tips to help you build a homestead that works for real life, not just Pinterest.
Markdown	![](https://ct.pinterest.com/v3/?event=init&tid=2612553617510&pd[em]=<hashed_email_address>&noscript=1) [Skip to content](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#main) Ready to Start Homesteading? 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Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works. ![Clean exterior window letting in soft daylight, with white framed panes and small potted plants arranged on the windowsill.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows2.jpg) I’m convinced that window washing exists solely to humble us. You scrub. You rinse. You squint. You inspect the glass from six inches away like a detective. You finally sit down with your coffee… and there they are. Streaks. Smudges. Random mystery spots that show up only after you sit down. Exterior windows are the worst offenders. Dirt, pollen, bug guts, and whatever else the weather throws at them all season long. Every cleaner promises better results and somehow delivers worse ones. After a lot of trial, error, and muttering under my breath, I’ve landed on a simple, natural way to clean exterior windows that really works. No harsh chemicals. No pressure washer. Just a method that doesn’t have me redoing the same window over and over. What You’ll Learn About Naturally Cleaning Exterior Windows - [Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#h-why-going-natural-makes-window-cleaning-easier) - [My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#my-goto-natural-exterior-window-cleaning-recipe) - [Natural Window Cleaning Solution](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#natural-window-cleaning-solution) - [Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#tools-that-make-exterior-window-cleaning-easier) - [How I Naturally Clean Exterior Windows, Step by Step](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#how-i-naturally-clean-exterior-windows-step-by-step) - [How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#how-to-avoid-streaks-on-outside-windows) - [What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces?](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#what-about-plants-siding-and-nearby-surfaces) - [When Vinegar Isn't Enough](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#h-when-vinegar-isn-t-enough) - [Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning?](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#h-still-wondering-about-natural-window-cleaning) ## Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier I’ll admit, I used to assume stronger cleaners meant cleaner windows. Turns out, that’s often the problem. Most commercial window cleaners leave behind residue. A little sun or breeze and it’s already dried in place. Hello, streaks. A vinegar-based cleaner, used correctly, cuts through grime without leaving a film behind. Pair that with a good squeegee and proper technique, and you get glass that stays clear longer. This approach also keeps overspray safer for plants, siding, and the soil around your home. That matters to me, especially here in Maine where everything grows all at once and I don’t want to mess it up. ## My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe This is what I use on my own windows. It’s simple, inexpensive, and made from three things I already keep on hand. ### Natural Window Cleaning Solution Ingredients - White vinegar - Warm water - A tiny drop of liquid dish soap (optional) ![Bottle of distilled white vinegar sitting on a countertop, used as the base for a natural exterior window cleaning solution.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows4.jpg) How I Mix It I use a bucket or large spray bottle and mix: - 1 part white vinegar - 1 part warm water If the windows are especially grimy, I’ll add one small drop of dish soap, and I mean small. Too much soap is a fast track to streaks. Why This Works - Vinegar handles pollen, mineral buildup, and the usual outdoor mess. - Warm water just helps things come off easier. - A tiny bit of soap helps with greasy spots without turning streaky. This recipe fits right in with the other [natural cleaning solutions I use around the house](https://104homestead.com/diy-cleaning-recipes/), all made with common household ingredients instead of specialty products. ## Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier You don’t need much, but the right tools matter. Here’s what I use: - A bucket or spray bottle - A scrubber or sponge - A few clean cloths for wiping edges - [A good window squeegee](https://amzn.to/3XWoZYE) ![Exterior window being cleaned with a squeegee attached to an extension pole, showing streak-free glass on a home’s upper window.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows5.jpg) A bad squeegee makes this job way more frustrating. A decent squeegee will save you time, frustration, and repeated do-overs. ## How I Naturally Clean Exterior Windows, Step by Step This was the missing piece for me… the order matters. Prep the Windows First: Before any cleaner touches the glass, I… - Knock off loose dirt, cobwebs, and debris - Rinse especially dusty windows with plain water if needed Skipping this step just drags grit across the glass and makes more work later. ![Hand wearing a pink rubber glove wiping a window with a green cloth while natural cleaning solution drips down the glass.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows3.jpg) Scrub With the Cleaning Solution: I apply the vinegar solution generously and scrub the entire window surface. Don’t be shy here. You want to loosen everything before you ever pick up the squeegee. Spray again. Squeegee From Top to Bottom: Starting at the top corner, I pull the squeegee straight down in smooth passes. After each pass, I wipe the blade with a cloth. That step alone prevents a lot of streaking. ![Close-up of a squeegee pulling soapy water down a window, leaving a clear, streak-free section of glass behind.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows6.jpg) Wipe the Edges: Once the glass is done, I wipe the edges and frame where water likes to collect. This keeps drips from sneaking back onto the glass later. ### How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows Streaks almost always mean one of these happened. - Cleaning in direct sun. The solution dries too fast. Cloudy days are your friend. - Too much soap. Less is more. - Dirty squeegee blade. Wipe it often. - Hard water residue. Vinegar helps, but stubborn buildup may need a second pass. I’ve found that slowing down just a little and wiping the blade between passes makes the biggest difference. ## What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces? In my experience, this diluted vinegar solution hasn’t harmed plants below the windows. That said, I avoid soaking leaves directly and rinse plants with plain water if I’m cleaning on a hot day. If you’re dealing with tougher buildup elsewhere, this is where [stronger natural cleaners like washing soda](https://104homestead.com/diy-washing-soda/) come into play, which I save for tougher jobs, not windows. ## When Vinegar Isn’t Enough Not every surface likes vinegar. Some glass surfaces around the house need a different approach. For example, [wood stove glass](https://104homestead.com/how-to-clean-wood-stove-glass/) builds up soot in a way windows don’t, and it benefits from a different cleaning method entirely. The same goes for [greasy stovetops and ovens](https://104homestead.com/dirty-ovens-greasy-stovetops/), where vinegar alone often isn’t enough. Some messes just need a different approach. Vinegar isn’t always the answer. ## Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning? You’re not alone. Here are a few that come up often. Can you really clean exterior windows with vinegar? Yes. When it’s diluted properly and paired with a squeegee, vinegar is excellent at cutting residue without leaving streaks. What’s the best time of day to wash outside windows? Early morning or a cloudy day is ideal. Direct sunlight causes the cleaner to dry too fast. Do I have to use a squeegee? You don’t have to, but it makes a big difference. Cleaning without one is possible, but streaks are much more likely. Is vinegar safe for plants around the house? In diluted form, I haven’t had issues. I still avoid spraying plants directly and rinse them if needed. Why do my windows still look streaky after cleaning? Usually it’s too much soap, a dirty squeegee blade, or cleaning in direct sun. Pin this for the next time your outside windows need a natural, streak-free clean. ![Pinterest-style graphic reading “Clean Outside Windows Naturally” above a bright kitchen window with potted plants and a white teapot on the sill.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows1.jpg) Window washing may never be fun, but it doesn’t have to feel like a losing battle. It’s still window washing, but it’s a lot less annoying. And once you get the hang of it, the whole process goes faster than you’d expect. I’d love to hear from you. Do you clean your windows naturally, or is this something you’ve been avoiding altogether? Leave a comment and tell me what’s worked, or what you’re still struggling with. Post Tags: [\#Natural Cleaning Methods](https://104homestead.com/tag/natural-cleaning-methods/ "Natural Cleaning Methods") [Jessica Knowles](https://104homestead.com/author/jessica/ "Posts by Jessica Knowles") Owner, Writer at The 104 Homesteader Jessica Knowles is a long-time Maine homesteader and the voice behind [The 104 Homestead](https://104homestead.com/) and [Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm](https://forgetmenotquailfarm.com/). With over a decade of experience in small-scale farming and self-sufficiency, she shares practical tips to help you build a homestead that works for real life, not just Pinterest. ## Post navigation [PreviousRaising Goats on the Homestead – Assessing Expenses](https://104homestead.com/raising-goats-expenses/) [NextChocolate Pudding Pie (Homemade Version + Quick No-Bake Option)](https://104homestead.com/chocolate-pudding-pie/) ### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#respond) This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. [Learn how your comment data is processed.](https://akismet.com/privacy/) ## 6 Comments 1. [window washer brooklyn](https://licwindowcleaners.com/) says: [at](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-29574) We always recommend using distilled water in your cleaning solution when washing your windows. The reason you’re getting the streaks isn’t the cleaning tool you’re using but instead the type of water you’re using. Hard water contains minerals that’re left behind once the water dries up and that’s what’s coming the streaks. But the newspaper method does work, I must say. [Reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-29574) 2. Windowman says: [at](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-25707) Squeegee inside as well, newspaper smewspaper… I’m a professional window cleaner for the last 37 years I know from which I speak. Also, if you use a power washer outside you will leave hard water stains on your windows. [Reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-25707) 3. David says: [at](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-25703) Just get a window cleaner its what were paid to do [Reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-25703) 4. [Sarasota Windows](https://www.srqwindows.com/) says: [at](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-24044) Good call with the diluted vinegar for an exterior window cleaning solution. Nothing takes away from a beautiful view like a dilapidated flower bed! Appreciate the thoroughness of your blog, and quality post\! [Reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-24044) 5. [Rob K](https://www.srqwindows.com/) says: [at](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-23089) Good call with the diluted vinegar for an exterior window cleaning solution. Nothing takes away from a beautiful view like a dilapidated flower bed! Appreciate the thoroughness of your blog, and quality post\! Rob K [Reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-23089) 6. [Mark Murphy](http://www.apluswindowcleaning.net/cleaning-services) says: [at](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-21313) I never knew that a simple newspaper with black text on white paper is a great way to clean windows. My wife and I have been thinking of getting a new house, and we want to make sure that the nice big front windows stay looking great to impress our neighbors. I will be sure to tell my wife that we should try and find a newspaper that we can use to clean the windows\! [Reply](https://104homestead.com/window-washing-trick/#comment-21313) #### Dreaming of a simpler, more self-reliant life? ![Jessica Knowles holding pea seeds in her hand, smiling in front of a colorful vegetable and flower garden with cabbage, calendula, and amaranth.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Jessica-Knowles-of-The-104-Homestead.jpg) I’m Jessica Knowles, a longtime homesteader here in Maine. For over a decade, I’ve been raising animals, growing food, and learning through plenty of trial and error. If you’re ready to dig in and build your own practical homesteading skills, you’re in the right place. I’m here to share what’s worked for me, and what hasn’t, so you can start your own journey with a little more confidence (and a lot fewer mistakes). 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Readable Markdown	Tired of streaky outside windows? Here’s how I naturally clean exterior windows using vinegar, a squeegee, and a method that works. ![Clean exterior window letting in soft daylight, with white framed panes and small potted plants arranged on the windowsill.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows2.jpg) I’m convinced that window washing exists solely to humble us. You scrub. You rinse. You squint. You inspect the glass from six inches away like a detective. You finally sit down with your coffee… and there they are. Streaks. Smudges. Random mystery spots that show up only after you sit down. Exterior windows are the worst offenders. Dirt, pollen, bug guts, and whatever else the weather throws at them all season long. Every cleaner promises better results and somehow delivers worse ones. After a lot of trial, error, and muttering under my breath, I’ve landed on a simple, natural way to clean exterior windows that really works. No harsh chemicals. No pressure washer. Just a method that doesn’t have me redoing the same window over and over. ## Why Going Natural Makes Window Cleaning Easier I’ll admit, I used to assume stronger cleaners meant cleaner windows. Turns out, that’s often the problem. Most commercial window cleaners leave behind residue. A little sun or breeze and it’s already dried in place. Hello, streaks. A vinegar-based cleaner, used correctly, cuts through grime without leaving a film behind. Pair that with a good squeegee and proper technique, and you get glass that stays clear longer. This approach also keeps overspray safer for plants, siding, and the soil around your home. That matters to me, especially here in Maine where everything grows all at once and I don’t want to mess it up. ## My Go-To Natural Exterior Window Cleaning Recipe This is what I use on my own windows. It’s simple, inexpensive, and made from three things I already keep on hand. ### Natural Window Cleaning Solution Ingredients - White vinegar - Warm water - A tiny drop of liquid dish soap (optional) ![Bottle of distilled white vinegar sitting on a countertop, used as the base for a natural exterior window cleaning solution.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows4.jpg) How I Mix It I use a bucket or large spray bottle and mix: - 1 part white vinegar - 1 part warm water If the windows are especially grimy, I’ll add one small drop of dish soap, and I mean small. Too much soap is a fast track to streaks. Why This Works - Vinegar handles pollen, mineral buildup, and the usual outdoor mess. - Warm water just helps things come off easier. - A tiny bit of soap helps with greasy spots without turning streaky. This recipe fits right in with the other [natural cleaning solutions I use around the house](https://104homestead.com/diy-cleaning-recipes/), all made with common household ingredients instead of specialty products. ## Tools That Make Exterior Window Cleaning Easier You don’t need much, but the right tools matter. Here’s what I use: - A bucket or spray bottle - A scrubber or sponge - A few clean cloths for wiping edges - [A good window squeegee](https://amzn.to/3XWoZYE) ![Exterior window being cleaned with a squeegee attached to an extension pole, showing streak-free glass on a home’s upper window.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows5.jpg) A bad squeegee makes this job way more frustrating. A decent squeegee will save you time, frustration, and repeated do-overs. This was the missing piece for me… the order matters. Prep the Windows First: Before any cleaner touches the glass, I… - Knock off loose dirt, cobwebs, and debris - Rinse especially dusty windows with plain water if needed Skipping this step just drags grit across the glass and makes more work later. ![Hand wearing a pink rubber glove wiping a window with a green cloth while natural cleaning solution drips down the glass.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows3.jpg) Scrub With the Cleaning Solution: I apply the vinegar solution generously and scrub the entire window surface. Don’t be shy here. You want to loosen everything before you ever pick up the squeegee. Spray again. Squeegee From Top to Bottom: Starting at the top corner, I pull the squeegee straight down in smooth passes. After each pass, I wipe the blade with a cloth. That step alone prevents a lot of streaking. ![Close-up of a squeegee pulling soapy water down a window, leaving a clear, streak-free section of glass behind.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows6.jpg) Wipe the Edges: Once the glass is done, I wipe the edges and frame where water likes to collect. This keeps drips from sneaking back onto the glass later. ### How to Avoid Streaks on Outside Windows Streaks almost always mean one of these happened. - Cleaning in direct sun. The solution dries too fast. Cloudy days are your friend. - Too much soap. Less is more. - Dirty squeegee blade. Wipe it often. - Hard water residue. Vinegar helps, but stubborn buildup may need a second pass. I’ve found that slowing down just a little and wiping the blade between passes makes the biggest difference. ## What About Plants, Siding, and Nearby Surfaces? In my experience, this diluted vinegar solution hasn’t harmed plants below the windows. That said, I avoid soaking leaves directly and rinse plants with plain water if I’m cleaning on a hot day. If you’re dealing with tougher buildup elsewhere, this is where [stronger natural cleaners like washing soda](https://104homestead.com/diy-washing-soda/) come into play, which I save for tougher jobs, not windows. ## When Vinegar Isn’t Enough Not every surface likes vinegar. Some glass surfaces around the house need a different approach. For example, [wood stove glass](https://104homestead.com/how-to-clean-wood-stove-glass/) builds up soot in a way windows don’t, and it benefits from a different cleaning method entirely. The same goes for [greasy stovetops and ovens](https://104homestead.com/dirty-ovens-greasy-stovetops/), where vinegar alone often isn’t enough. Some messes just need a different approach. Vinegar isn’t always the answer. ## Still Wondering About Natural Window Cleaning? You’re not alone. Here are a few that come up often. Pin this for the next time your outside windows need a natural, streak-free clean. ![Pinterest-style graphic reading “Clean Outside Windows Naturally” above a bright kitchen window with potted plants and a white teapot on the sill.](https://104homestead.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/how-to-naturally-clean-exterior-windows1.jpg) Window washing may never be fun, but it doesn’t have to feel like a losing battle. It’s still window washing, but it’s a lot less annoying. And once you get the hang of it, the whole process goes faster than you’d expect. I’d love to hear from you. Do you clean your windows naturally, or is this something you’ve been avoiding altogether? Leave a comment and tell me what’s worked, or what you’re still struggling with. [Jessica Knowles](https://104homestead.com/author/jessica/ "Posts by Jessica Knowles") Owner, Writer at The 104 Homesteader Jessica Knowles is a long-time Maine homesteader and the voice behind [The 104 Homestead](https://104homestead.com/) and [Forget-Me-Not Quail Farm](https://forgetmenotquailfarm.com/). With over a decade of experience in small-scale farming and self-sufficiency, she shares practical tips to help you build a homestead that works for real life, not just Pinterest.
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