🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 30 (from laksa126)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa030.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://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-windows-11837248\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-windows-11837248\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248","crawl_time":1775663944,"first_indexed_time":1761501900,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,southernliving!www,\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248 s443","src_root_hash":"3239763844413174230","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How To Clean Windows: 5 Steps","meta_descriptions":["Your windows might be in need of some TLC these days to help bring sunshine inside. Here are five easy steps to clean your windows yourself."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Try these five easy steps for getting your windows (and mirrors) sparkly clean.\nBy\nNellah Bailey McGough\nNellah McGough runs the day-to-day operations in the Southern Living Birmingham office, responds to reader questions and comments, manages contracts and invoices. She is also the co-host (with Steve Bender) of Ask Grumpy Podcast. \nPublished on October 26, 2025\nLet's be honest, I don't enjoy most household chores but I do love washing windows. There's a feeling of instant gratification when turning grimy, dirty panes into crystal clear glass. The yard looks better from the inside and the house looks better from the street. I'm washing away allergens like dust and pollen and letting the maximum amount of light into my home. Plus, window manufacturers recommend keeping your windows clean to preserve the energy efficiency of any special coatings on the glass.\nThere are many ideas floating around about the best way to clean windows, from using newspaper to squeegees to sponges. A question often asked is, \"How do I avoid streaks?\" No one likes to see streaking of any kind. You could hire a professional window cleaner or buy commercial window cleaning products, but we're going to tell you how to get professional-quality, streak-free windows at a fraction of the cost with a few easy steps.\nCredit: Getty Images\nHow Often to Clean Windows\nWindows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent grime from building up. Once a season could be even better, depending on where you live—for instance, in a damp forest that coats your house in mildew and pollen much of the year, or on the coast, where salt can glaze your glass and cause problems.\nConsiderations Before Getting Started\nTo clean my windows, I like to use washable and re-useable microfiber cloths that are lint-free. Some people like to use newspapers to clean their windows, but I've always found this a bit cumbersome and never have a newspaper lying around the house. For years, paper towels were my go-to, but they leave lint and are wasteful. A squeegee is also a popular tool, but you're wiping all that water down the panes and then have to wipe up the mess with a towel. I find it takes a lot more time and energy than I'm willing to invest. Give our easy cleaning technique a try and your shiny windows will be the envy of the neighborhood.\nWhat You Need\nPlastic spray bottle\nDistilled white vinegar\nDawn Ultra dishwashing liquid (use the original blue Dawn)\nMicrofiber cloths (this pack of 24 cloths will last for years)\nBroom (a soft-bristled broom is perfect for picking up dust)\nGloves (these latex-free gloves will keep that new manicure looking good)\nHow to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar\nCheck the weather:\nThe best time to wash windows is on an overcast but not rainy day. A hot, sunny day causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too fast before you can finish washing the window and leaves streaks.\nMix up your window-cleaning solution:\nIn a plastic spray bottle, mix together 2 cups of warm water with 1\/4 cup white vinegar and 1\/2 teaspoon of Dawn.\nSweep away dirt:\nUsing a broom, sweep away the cobwebs and debris from the windows and sills.\nWash your windows:\nSpray your window panes with the solution and wipe off grime with a microfiber cloth, rubbing in a circular motion.\nDry and remove streaks:\nUsing a second clean microfiber cloth, dry off water and rub away any streaks.\nCredit: Getty\/Justin Pumfrey\nTips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer\nWhile your windows will still need regular cleaning, there are a few tricks to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that collects on them in the meantime. Here are some tips for keeping your glass sparkling inside and out:\nKeep shrubs, vines, and tree branches off of your windows, pruning whenever necessary.\nIf you don't open your windows in winter, remove the screens that are serving as a dirt trap, clean them, and store them away until spring.\nIf you live in a rainy climate, treat the exterior of your windows with rain repellant.\nChange your furnace and A\/C air filters when they get dirty.\nRun the vent hood any time you cook in the kitchen.\nWas this page helpful?\nTell us why!","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#main)\n\n[Southern Living](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/)\n\n- Please fill out this field.\n- Magazine\n  - [Subscribe](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248)\n  - [Manage Your Subscription](https:\/\/w1.buysub.com\/pubs\/MR\/SLV\/Login_No_API.jsp?cds_page_id=227169&cds_mag_code=SLV&id=1661290621578&lsid=22351636502027051&vid=2)\n  - 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(Paid Partnership)](https:\/\/www.parents.com\/featured\/premium\/likeamother?utm_source=editorial&utm_campaign=sitewidebanner&utm_brand=southernliving)\n\n# How To Clean Your Windows For A Streak-Free Finish\nTry these five easy steps for getting your windows (and mirrors) sparkly clean.\n\nBy\n\n[Nellah Bailey McGough](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/author\/nellah-bailey-mcgough)\n\n![Nellah Bailey McGough]()\n\n![Nellah Bailey McGough](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/jAmRiZLBF3IqCobo-4QYP6eec5I=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/3d7f81c2-e2a103d31af44005bb00b1cfe93f2b66.jpeg)\n\n[Nellah Bailey McGough](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/author\/nellah-bailey-mcgough)\n\nNellah McGough runs the day-to-day operations in the Southern Living Birmingham office, responds to reader questions and comments, manages contracts and invoices. She is also the co-host (with Steve Bender) of Ask Grumpy Podcast.\n\n[Southern Living's editorial guidelines](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/about-us-6502349#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n\nPublished on October 26, 2025\n\nIn This Article\n\nView All\n\nIn This Article\n\n- [Frequency](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#toc-how-often-to-clean-windows)\n- [Soap and Vinegar](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#toc-how-to-clean-windows-with-soap-and-vinegar)\n- [Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#toc-tips-to-keep-your-windows-clean-longer)\n\nLet's be honest, I don't enjoy most household chores but I do love washing windows. There's a feeling of instant gratification when turning grimy, dirty panes into crystal clear glass. The yard looks better from the inside and the house looks better from the street. I'm washing away allergens like dust and pollen and letting the maximum amount of light into my home. Plus, window manufacturers recommend keeping your windows clean to preserve the energy efficiency of any special coatings on the glass.\n\nThere are many ideas floating around about the best way to clean windows, from using newspaper to squeegees to sponges. A question often asked is, \"How do I avoid streaks?\" No one likes to see streaking of any kind. You could hire a professional window cleaner or buy commercial window cleaning products, but we're going to tell you how to get professional-quality, streak-free windows at a fraction of the cost with a few easy steps.\n\n![Female hands in yellow gloves cleaning window with green rag and spray detergent. Spring cleanup, housework concept]()\n\n![Female hands in yellow gloves cleaning window with green rag and spray detergent. Spring cleanup, housework concept](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/U50jST-vyQn2J6gVDdenbz0Z76c=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1139943379-2000-30734e314abb451d87aae374a124c61c.jpg)\n\nCredit: Getty Images\n## How Often to Clean Windows\nWindows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent grime from building up. Once a season could be even better, depending on where you live—for instance, in a damp forest that coats your house in mildew and pollen much of the year, or on the coast, where salt can glaze your glass and cause problems.\n\n## Considerations Before Getting Started\nTo clean my windows, I like to use washable and re-useable microfiber cloths that are lint-free. Some people like to use newspapers to clean their windows, but I've always found this a bit cumbersome and never have a newspaper lying around the house. For years, paper towels were my go-to, but they leave lint and are wasteful. A squeegee is also a popular tool, but you're wiping all that water down the panes and then have to wipe up the mess with a towel. I find it takes a lot more time and energy than I'm willing to invest. Give our easy cleaning technique a try and your shiny windows will be the envy of the neighborhood.\n\n## What You Need\n- Plastic spray bottle\n- Distilled white vinegar\n- Dawn Ultra dishwashing liquid (use the original blue Dawn)\n- Microfiber cloths (this pack of 24 cloths will last for years)\n- Broom (a soft-bristled broom is perfect for picking up dust)\n- Gloves (these latex-free gloves will keep that new manicure looking good)\n## How to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar\n1. **Check the weather:** The best time to wash windows is on an overcast but not rainy day. A hot, sunny day causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too fast before you can finish washing the window and leaves streaks.\n2. **Mix up your window-cleaning solution:** In a plastic spray bottle, mix together 2 cups of warm water with 1\/4 cup white vinegar and 1\/2 teaspoon of Dawn.\n3. **Sweep away dirt:** Using a broom, sweep away the cobwebs and debris from the windows and sills.\n4. **Wash your windows:** Spray your window panes with the solution and wipe off grime with a microfiber cloth, rubbing in a circular motion.\n5. **Dry and remove streaks:** Using a second clean microfiber cloth, dry off water and rub away any streaks.\n\n![Woman looking out of window at father and daughter running in yard]()\n\n![Woman looking out of window at father and daughter running in yard](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/KCU9UvpOcXJs4P2WFQHfOdQERpA=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-200155143-001-2000-9163fe121f004a8592916ac6d5c70d8f.jpg)\n\nCredit: Getty\/Justin Pumfrey\n\n## Related Stories\n[How To Deep Clean Your House In 1 Day, According To An Expert ![Person wiping down a doorknob]() ![Person wiping down a doorknob](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/EXRSX1ZyImVRostc1eCY80SywvI=\/300x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1213509244-2000-9ceb588116804b9e9f52ed6f8bb7269d.jpg)](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-deep-clean-house-in-day-11866608)\n\n[How To Clean Window Blinds, According To The Pros ![Cleaning Blinds with Cloth]() ![Cleaning Blinds with Cloth](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/wL-yXqvhuKyy_yQt22ODsUwFHU4=\/300x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1278588696-72f7f123f87244598073577488eba501.jpg)](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-window-blinds-11885837)\n## Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer\nWhile your windows will still need regular cleaning, there are a few tricks to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that collects on them in the meantime. Here are some tips for keeping your glass sparkling inside and out:\n\n- Keep shrubs, vines, and tree branches off of your windows, pruning whenever necessary.\n- If you don't open your windows in winter, remove the screens that are serving as a dirt trap, clean them, and store them away until spring.\n- If you live in a rainy climate, treat the exterior of your windows with rain repellant.\n- Change your furnace and A\/C air filters when they get dirty.\n- Run the vent hood any time you cook in the kitchen.\n\nExplore more:\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/home)\n- [Cleaning and Housekeeping](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/home\/cleaning-and-housekeeping)\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nThanks for your feedback\\!\n\nTell us why\\!\n\nOther\n\n## Related Articles\n[![Closeup woman's hands washing window screens with water hose outside on green grass]() ![Closeup woman's hands washing window screens with water hose outside on green 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Off](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/cleaning-windows-in-fall-8711241)\n\n[![Seal and condensation on wood window frame]() ![Seal and condensation on wood window frame](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/PwFoqiA_W53al_7wELQixAf3qLk=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-2235752276-a15ca6c64f124a9da6559be5a501506d.jpg) How To Clean Weather Stripping And Seals To Keep Drafts And Dust Out](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-weather-stripping-and-seals-on-doors-and-windows-11815170)\n\n[![Overhead View of Light Brown Color Carpet]() ![Overhead View of Light Brown Color Carpet](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/7XcJmj_i3srfc3M9JxFRTolDlFU=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1210606296-a1e0ef6388dc44acb4ca55aadc77e507.jpg) The Simple Trick To Cleaning Carpet With Just Baking 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Soda](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-deep-clean-stainless-steel-sink-with-baking-soda-11913375)\n\n[![Close-up of coffee spilling from cup on carpet]() ![Close-up of coffee spilling from cup on carpet](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/QueGrJ4xPhQeNFN53Pdk4PjiEkY=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-611185440-d015ac476063443ea1dadae4fc31a2c1.jpg) How To Remove Stubborn Stains From Your Carpet](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-remove-carpet-stains-11874304)\n\n[![Cleaning the top of a door frame]() ![Cleaning the top of a door frame](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/T07GKUm29mY_TXyuKoh7TdOUXsc=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-1364569535-7553e409ad234b6ea3cf479fe421ef4b.jpg) How To Clean Door Frames Without Damaging The Paint](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-door-frames-11923753)\n\n[![Empty Dishwasher]() ![Empty 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Peninsula](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/58wZDF1CC8L4By6DjP1fiN4YliQ=\/282x188\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/2679201_KavanaughSouthern-Living-18-2000-f6d572d388fc46c095e3430b254595c5.jpg) How To Clean Painted Walls Without Ruining Them](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-painted-walls-11798387)\n\n[Southern Living](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/)\n\n[Newsletters](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/how-to-clean-windows-11837248)\n\nFollow us\n\n- [Food](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/food)\n- [Home](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/home)\n- [Garden](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/garden)\n- [Travel](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/travel)\n- [Holidays](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/holidays-occasions)\n- [Culture](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/culture)\n- [Style](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/fashion-beauty)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/news)\n- [Shopping](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/shopping)\n- [Podcasts](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/podcasts-7373302)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/about-us-6502349)\n- [Subscribe](https:\/\/www.magazines.com\/southern-living-magazine.html)\n- [Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/about-us-6502349#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/about-us-6502349#toc-contact-us)\n\nSouthern Living is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.\n\nNewsletter Sign Up\n\nNewsletter Sign Up","attrs_readable_markdown":"Try these five easy steps for getting your windows (and mirrors) sparkly clean.\n\nBy\n\n[Nellah Bailey McGough](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/author\/nellah-bailey-mcgough)\n\n![Nellah Bailey McGough](https:\/\/www.southernliving.com\/thmb\/jAmRiZLBF3IqCobo-4QYP6eec5I=\/200x200\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/3d7f81c2-e2a103d31af44005bb00b1cfe93f2b66.jpeg)\n\nNellah McGough runs the day-to-day operations in the Southern Living Birmingham office, responds to reader questions and comments, manages contracts and invoices. She is also the co-host (with Steve Bender) of Ask Grumpy Podcast.\n\nPublished on October 26, 2025\n\nLet's be honest, I don't enjoy most household chores but I do love washing windows. There's a feeling of instant gratification when turning grimy, dirty panes into crystal clear glass. The yard looks better from the inside and the house looks better from the street. I'm washing away allergens like dust and pollen and letting the maximum amount of light into my home. Plus, window manufacturers recommend keeping your windows clean to preserve the energy efficiency of any special coatings on the glass.\n\nThere are many ideas floating around about the best way to clean windows, from using newspaper to squeegees to sponges. A question often asked is, \"How do I avoid streaks?\" No one likes to see streaking of any kind. You could hire a professional window cleaner or buy commercial window cleaning products, but we're going to tell you how to get professional-quality, streak-free windows at a fraction of the cost with a few easy steps.\n\nCredit: Getty Images\n\n## How Often to Clean Windows\nWindows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent grime from building up. Once a season could be even better, depending on where you live—for instance, in a damp forest that coats your house in mildew and pollen much of the year, or on the coast, where salt can glaze your glass and cause problems.\n\n## Considerations Before Getting Started\nTo clean my windows, I like to use washable and re-useable microfiber cloths that are lint-free. Some people like to use newspapers to clean their windows, but I've always found this a bit cumbersome and never have a newspaper lying around the house. For years, paper towels were my go-to, but they leave lint and are wasteful. A squeegee is also a popular tool, but you're wiping all that water down the panes and then have to wipe up the mess with a towel. I find it takes a lot more time and energy than I'm willing to invest. Give our easy cleaning technique a try and your shiny windows will be the envy of the neighborhood.\n\n## What You Need\n- Plastic spray bottle\n- Distilled white vinegar\n- Dawn Ultra dishwashing liquid (use the original blue Dawn)\n- Microfiber cloths (this pack of 24 cloths will last for years)\n- Broom (a soft-bristled broom is perfect for picking up dust)\n- Gloves (these latex-free gloves will keep that new manicure looking good)\n## How to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar\n1. **Check the weather:** The best time to wash windows is on an overcast but not rainy day. A hot, sunny day causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too fast before you can finish washing the window and leaves streaks.\n2. **Mix up your window-cleaning solution:** In a plastic spray bottle, mix together 2 cups of warm water with 1\/4 cup white vinegar and 1\/2 teaspoon of Dawn.\n3. **Sweep away dirt:** Using a broom, sweep away the cobwebs and debris from the windows and sills.\n4. **Wash your windows:** Spray your window panes with the solution and wipe off grime with a microfiber cloth, rubbing in a circular motion.\n5. **Dry and remove streaks:** Using a second clean microfiber cloth, dry off water and rub away any streaks.\n\nCredit: Getty\/Justin Pumfrey\n\n## Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer\nWhile your windows will still need regular cleaning, there are a few tricks to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that collects on them in the meantime. Here are some tips for keeping your glass sparkling inside and out:\n\n- Keep shrubs, vines, and tree branches off of your windows, pruning whenever necessary.\n- If you don't open your windows in winter, remove the screens that are serving as a dirt trap, clean them, and store them away until spring.\n- If you live in a rainy climate, treat the exterior of your windows with rain repellant.\n- Change your furnace and A\/C air filters when they get dirty.\n- Run the vent hood any time you cook in the kitchen.\n\nWas this page helpful?\n\nTell us why\\!","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Try these five easy steps for getting your windows (and mirrors) sparkly clean. By Nellah Bailey McGough Nellah McGough runs the day-to-day operations in the Southern Living Birmingham office, responds to reader questions and comments, manages contracts and invoices. She is also the co-host (with Steve Bender) of Ask Grumpy Podcast. Published on October 26, 2025 Let's be honest, I don't enjoy most household chores but I do love washing windows. There's a feeling of instant gratification when turning grimy, dirty panes into crystal clear glass. The yard looks better from the inside and the house looks better from the street. I'm washing away allergens like dust and pollen and letting the maximum amount of light into my home. Plus, window manufacturers recommend keeping your windows clean to preserve the energy efficiency of any special coatings on the glass. There are many ideas floating around about the best way to clean windows, from using newspaper to squeegees to sponges. A question often asked is, "How do I avoid streaks?" No one likes to see streaking of any kind. You could hire a professional window cleaner or buy commercial window cleaning products, but we're going to tell you how to get professional-quality, streak-free windows at a fraction of the cost with a few easy steps. Credit: Getty Images How Often to Clean Windows Windows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent grime from building up. Once a season could be even better, depending on where you live—for instance, in a damp forest that coats your house in mildew and pollen much of the year, or on the coast, where salt can glaze your glass and cause problems. Considerations Before Getting Started To clean my windows, I like to use washable and re-useable microfiber cloths that are lint-free. Some people like to use newspapers to clean their windows, but I've always found this a bit cumbersome and never have a newspaper lying around the house. For years, paper towels were my go-to, but they leave lint and are wasteful. A squeegee is also a popular tool, but you're wiping all that water down the panes and then have to wipe up the mess with a towel. I find it takes a lot more time and energy than I'm willing to invest. Give our easy cleaning technique a try and your shiny windows will be the envy of the neighborhood. What You Need Plastic spray bottle Distilled white vinegar Dawn Ultra dishwashing liquid (use the original blue Dawn) Microfiber cloths (this pack of 24 cloths will last for years) Broom (a soft-bristled broom is perfect for picking up dust) Gloves (these latex-free gloves will keep that new manicure looking good) How to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar Check the weather: The best time to wash windows is on an overcast but not rainy day. A hot, sunny day causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too fast before you can finish washing the window and leaves streaks. Mix up your window-cleaning solution: In a plastic spray bottle, mix together 2 cups of warm water with 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon of Dawn. Sweep away dirt: Using a broom, sweep away the cobwebs and debris from the windows and sills. Wash your windows: Spray your window panes with the solution and wipe off grime with a microfiber cloth, rubbing in a circular motion. Dry and remove streaks: Using a second clean microfiber cloth, dry off water and rub away any streaks. Credit: Getty/Justin Pumfrey Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer While your windows will still need regular cleaning, there are a few tricks to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that collects on them in the meantime. Here are some tips for keeping your glass sparkling inside and out: Keep shrubs, vines, and tree branches off of your windows, pruning whenever necessary. If you don't open your windows in winter, remove the screens that are serving as a dirt trap, clean them, and store them away until spring. If you live in a rainy climate, treat the exterior of your windows with rain repellant. Change your furnace and A/C air filters when they get dirty. Run the vent hood any time you cook in the kitchen. Was this page helpful? Tell us why!
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(Paid Partnership)](https://www.parents.com/featured/premium/likeamother?utm_source=editorial&utm_campaign=sitewidebanner&utm_brand=southernliving) # How To Clean Your Windows For A Streak-Free Finish Try these five easy steps for getting your windows (and mirrors) sparkly clean. By [Nellah Bailey McGough](https://www.southernliving.com/author/nellah-bailey-mcgough) ![Nellah Bailey McGough]() ![Nellah Bailey McGough](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/jAmRiZLBF3IqCobo-4QYP6eec5I=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/3d7f81c2-e2a103d31af44005bb00b1cfe93f2b66.jpeg) [Nellah Bailey McGough](https://www.southernliving.com/author/nellah-bailey-mcgough) Nellah McGough runs the day-to-day operations in the Southern Living Birmingham office, responds to reader questions and comments, manages contracts and invoices. She is also the co-host (with Steve Bender) of Ask Grumpy Podcast. [Southern Living's editorial guidelines](https://www.southernliving.com/about-us-6502349#toc-editorial-guidelines) Published on October 26, 2025 In This Article View All In This Article - [Frequency](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#toc-how-often-to-clean-windows) - [Soap and Vinegar](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#toc-how-to-clean-windows-with-soap-and-vinegar) - [Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-windows-11837248#toc-tips-to-keep-your-windows-clean-longer) Let's be honest, I don't enjoy most household chores but I do love washing windows. There's a feeling of instant gratification when turning grimy, dirty panes into crystal clear glass. The yard looks better from the inside and the house looks better from the street. I'm washing away allergens like dust and pollen and letting the maximum amount of light into my home. Plus, window manufacturers recommend keeping your windows clean to preserve the energy efficiency of any special coatings on the glass. There are many ideas floating around about the best way to clean windows, from using newspaper to squeegees to sponges. A question often asked is, "How do I avoid streaks?" No one likes to see streaking of any kind. You could hire a professional window cleaner or buy commercial window cleaning products, but we're going to tell you how to get professional-quality, streak-free windows at a fraction of the cost with a few easy steps. ![Female hands in yellow gloves cleaning window with green rag and spray detergent. Spring cleanup, housework concept]() ![Female hands in yellow gloves cleaning window with green rag and spray detergent. Spring cleanup, housework concept](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/U50jST-vyQn2J6gVDdenbz0Z76c=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1139943379-2000-30734e314abb451d87aae374a124c61c.jpg) Credit: Getty Images ## How Often to Clean Windows Windows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent grime from building up. Once a season could be even better, depending on where you live—for instance, in a damp forest that coats your house in mildew and pollen much of the year, or on the coast, where salt can glaze your glass and cause problems. ## Considerations Before Getting Started To clean my windows, I like to use washable and re-useable microfiber cloths that are lint-free. Some people like to use newspapers to clean their windows, but I've always found this a bit cumbersome and never have a newspaper lying around the house. For years, paper towels were my go-to, but they leave lint and are wasteful. A squeegee is also a popular tool, but you're wiping all that water down the panes and then have to wipe up the mess with a towel. I find it takes a lot more time and energy than I'm willing to invest. Give our easy cleaning technique a try and your shiny windows will be the envy of the neighborhood. ## What You Need - Plastic spray bottle - Distilled white vinegar - Dawn Ultra dishwashing liquid (use the original blue Dawn) - Microfiber cloths (this pack of 24 cloths will last for years) - Broom (a soft-bristled broom is perfect for picking up dust) - Gloves (these latex-free gloves will keep that new manicure looking good) ## How to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar 1. Check the weather: The best time to wash windows is on an overcast but not rainy day. A hot, sunny day causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too fast before you can finish washing the window and leaves streaks. 2. Mix up your window-cleaning solution: In a plastic spray bottle, mix together 2 cups of warm water with 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon of Dawn. 3. Sweep away dirt: Using a broom, sweep away the cobwebs and debris from the windows and sills. 4. Wash your windows: Spray your window panes with the solution and wipe off grime with a microfiber cloth, rubbing in a circular motion. 5. Dry and remove streaks: Using a second clean microfiber cloth, dry off water and rub away any streaks. ![Woman looking out of window at father and daughter running in yard]() ![Woman looking out of window at father and daughter running in yard](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/KCU9UvpOcXJs4P2WFQHfOdQERpA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-200155143-001-2000-9163fe121f004a8592916ac6d5c70d8f.jpg) Credit: Getty/Justin Pumfrey ## Related Stories [How To Deep Clean Your House In 1 Day, According To An Expert ![Person wiping down a doorknob]() ![Person wiping down a doorknob](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/EXRSX1ZyImVRostc1eCY80SywvI=/300x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1213509244-2000-9ceb588116804b9e9f52ed6f8bb7269d.jpg)](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-deep-clean-house-in-day-11866608) [How To Clean Window Blinds, According To The Pros ![Cleaning Blinds with Cloth]() ![Cleaning Blinds with Cloth](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/wL-yXqvhuKyy_yQt22ODsUwFHU4=/300x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-1278588696-72f7f123f87244598073577488eba501.jpg)](https://www.southernliving.com/how-to-clean-window-blinds-11885837) ## Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer While your windows will still need regular cleaning, there are a few tricks to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that collects on them in the meantime. Here are some tips for keeping your glass sparkling inside and out: - Keep shrubs, vines, and tree branches off of your windows, pruning whenever necessary. - If you don't open your windows in winter, remove the screens that are serving as a dirt trap, clean them, and store them away until spring. - If you live in a rainy climate, treat the exterior of your windows with rain repellant. - Change your furnace and A/C air filters when they get dirty. - Run the vent hood any time you cook in the kitchen. Explore more: - [Home](https://www.southernliving.com/home) - [Cleaning and Housekeeping](https://www.southernliving.com/home/cleaning-and-housekeeping) Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback\! Tell us why\! 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Readable Markdown	Try these five easy steps for getting your windows (and mirrors) sparkly clean. By [Nellah Bailey McGough](https://www.southernliving.com/author/nellah-bailey-mcgough) ![Nellah Bailey McGough](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/jAmRiZLBF3IqCobo-4QYP6eec5I=/200x200/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/3d7f81c2-e2a103d31af44005bb00b1cfe93f2b66.jpeg) Nellah McGough runs the day-to-day operations in the Southern Living Birmingham office, responds to reader questions and comments, manages contracts and invoices. She is also the co-host (with Steve Bender) of Ask Grumpy Podcast. Published on October 26, 2025 Let's be honest, I don't enjoy most household chores but I do love washing windows. There's a feeling of instant gratification when turning grimy, dirty panes into crystal clear glass. The yard looks better from the inside and the house looks better from the street. I'm washing away allergens like dust and pollen and letting the maximum amount of light into my home. Plus, window manufacturers recommend keeping your windows clean to preserve the energy efficiency of any special coatings on the glass. There are many ideas floating around about the best way to clean windows, from using newspaper to squeegees to sponges. A question often asked is, "How do I avoid streaks?" No one likes to see streaking of any kind. You could hire a professional window cleaner or buy commercial window cleaning products, but we're going to tell you how to get professional-quality, streak-free windows at a fraction of the cost with a few easy steps. Credit: Getty Images ## How Often to Clean Windows Windows should be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent grime from building up. Once a season could be even better, depending on where you live—for instance, in a damp forest that coats your house in mildew and pollen much of the year, or on the coast, where salt can glaze your glass and cause problems. ## Considerations Before Getting Started To clean my windows, I like to use washable and re-useable microfiber cloths that are lint-free. Some people like to use newspapers to clean their windows, but I've always found this a bit cumbersome and never have a newspaper lying around the house. For years, paper towels were my go-to, but they leave lint and are wasteful. A squeegee is also a popular tool, but you're wiping all that water down the panes and then have to wipe up the mess with a towel. I find it takes a lot more time and energy than I'm willing to invest. Give our easy cleaning technique a try and your shiny windows will be the envy of the neighborhood. ## What You Need - Plastic spray bottle - Distilled white vinegar - Dawn Ultra dishwashing liquid (use the original blue Dawn) - Microfiber cloths (this pack of 24 cloths will last for years) - Broom (a soft-bristled broom is perfect for picking up dust) - Gloves (these latex-free gloves will keep that new manicure looking good) ## How to Clean Windows With Soap and Vinegar 1. Check the weather: The best time to wash windows is on an overcast but not rainy day. A hot, sunny day causes the cleaning solution to evaporate too fast before you can finish washing the window and leaves streaks. 2. Mix up your window-cleaning solution: In a plastic spray bottle, mix together 2 cups of warm water with 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon of Dawn. 3. Sweep away dirt: Using a broom, sweep away the cobwebs and debris from the windows and sills. 4. Wash your windows: Spray your window panes with the solution and wipe off grime with a microfiber cloth, rubbing in a circular motion. 5. Dry and remove streaks: Using a second clean microfiber cloth, dry off water and rub away any streaks. Credit: Getty/Justin Pumfrey ## Tips to Keep Your Windows Clean Longer While your windows will still need regular cleaning, there are a few tricks to reduce the amount of dirt and grime that collects on them in the meantime. Here are some tips for keeping your glass sparkling inside and out: - Keep shrubs, vines, and tree branches off of your windows, pruning whenever necessary. - If you don't open your windows in winter, remove the screens that are serving as a dirt trap, clean them, and store them away until spring. - If you live in a rainy climate, treat the exterior of your windows with rain repellant. - Change your furnace and A/C air filters when they get dirty. - Run the vent hood any time you cook in the kitchen. Was this page helpful? Tell us why\!
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