Window Cleaning Tips

If you’re house sitting in New Zealand, cleaning windows will not be part of your primary duties. But going that extra mile to leave sparkling clean panes can make a lasting impression on homeowners, and they’ll not only brighten the house but also show a level of care that exceeds basic expectations.

You don’t have to go overboard and do every single pane of the dwelling, unless of course you choose to. Just focus on the living areas, such as the lounge, dining room, and kitchen. This is what I usually do, and I don’t clean them all in one hit but rather over three or four days. And I only do windows if my sit is of a reasonable duration – at least one week. I don’t worry about them on brief stays of only 1-3 days, except maybe the kitchen ones. On really long sits of 1-2 months then I tend to find myself doing the whole house, simply because I’ll have plenty of time in which to do them.

With the right approach, window cleaning can be quick and efficient, and the results will leave you with glowing references and recurring assignments. It’s certainly worked for me!

Here are some window cleaning tips to help Kiwi house sitters achieve streak-free and crystal-clear results:

1. Use The Right Tools

Having the right tools will make your task easier and more effective. Here’s what you will need:

Lint-Free Microfibre Cloths

These are great for wiping down the glass without leaving streaks or lint behind.

Squeegee

This tool is your best friend for achieving streak-free windows. It allows for a smooth, even finish.

Bucket And Sponge

Use a bucket of soapy water and a sponge to tackle dirt and grime.

Glass Cleaner Or DIY Solution

Store-bought glass cleaners work well, but NZ house sitters will find that a simple and inexpensive homemade solution of water, vinegar, and a few drops of dish washing liquid can be just as effective.

2. Choose The Right Time Of Day

Avoid cleaning windows in direct sunlight, as the hot glass will cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leaving horrible streaks. Early morning or late afternoon, when the panes are cool to the touch, are the best times because the lower temperature allows the solution to dry more evenly.

3. Start With Dusting

Before applying any cleaning solution, dust the window frames, sills, and screens. A quick vacuum with a brush attachment or a dry microfibre cloth will remove loose dirt and prevent it from turning into a smeary mess when you start cleaning.

4. Clean The Window Screens

Window screens can accumulate a lot of dust, dirt, and debris. Remove the screens if possible and gently wash them with a soapy sponge or a hose. Let them dry before placing them back on the windows. Clean screens mean fewer particles will stick to your newly cleaned windows.

5. Use A Two-Step Cleaning Solution

For dirty windows, New Zealand house sitters are advised to start by washing the glass with a bucket of warm, soapy water (a few drops of dish washing liquid works really well) to loosen grime. After scrubbing with a sponge, rinse with clean water and then move on to the next step: wiping them down with a glass cleaner or your DIY vinegar solution for a streak-free finish.

6. Squeegee For A Streak-Free Shine

Using a squeegee correctly is the secret to streak-free windows. After applying the cleaning solution, start at the top of the window and drag the squeegee in even strokes down (not across) the glass, wiping the blade with a microfiber cloth (or soft towel) after each pass. Overlap your strokes slightly to help avoid leaving unsightly lines.

7. Wipe Edges And Corners

After squeegeeing, use a clean, dry microfibre cloth to wipe around the window edges and corners where the blade can’t reach. This will prevent any water from pooling or streaking in these areas.

8. Don’t Forget The Window Tracks

Window tracks can gather dust and grime, and cleaning them is often overlooked. Use a small brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the tracks, then vacuum up any loose dirt. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe away any stubborn grime, leaving the window frame and tracks looking just as clean as the glass.

9. Polish With Newspaper Or Coffee Filters

For an extra-polished finish, house sitters in NZ may like to consider using a crumpled piece of newspaper or a coffee filter to give the windows a final wipe. Both materials are lint-free and can add a streak-free shine without leaving residue.

10. Use Different Techniques For Interior And Exterior Windows

For interior windows, you may find that a simple spray cleaner and microfibre cloth is all they need, especially if the panes are not too dirty. However, exterior windows can accumulate more grime due to exposure to the elements, so they might need a bit more scrubbing power with a sponge and soapy water before using a squeegee.

11. Clean Window Blinds Or Curtains

Clean windows can be undermined by dusty blinds or curtains. Take a moment to dust or wipe down the blinds or give the curtains a quick shake to remove any dirt or dust that could blow onto the windows after cleaning.

12. Check For Stubborn Spots

House sitters in New Zealand may find that stubborn spots like bird droppings, tree sap, or hard water stains could require extra attention. A paste of baking soda and water can help scrub off tough spots. Gently rub the area with a soft cloth, then rinse clean. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive cloths as they can scratch the glass.

13. Consider Safety For High Windows

If you’re outside and facing second (or third) storey windows that are too difficult to reach safely, it’s probably better to leave them for the home owners, unless they have long-handled brushes and/or squeegees or you’re confident in using ladders. Otherwise, simply bypass the exterior panes of those windows and just do the inside glass.

14. Do A Final Inspection

After cleaning, do a quick walk around the house to inspect all the windows. Look for any spots you might have missed, and give those areas an additional wipe if necessary. Homeowners will appreciate the attention to detail when they come home to crystal-clear windows.

Why Clean Windows Matter

As someone who is house sitting in NZ full-time, I find that clean windows are a simple but impactful way to show homeowners that I take pride in my work and their home. Not only do sparkling windows make the house feel brighter and more inviting, but they also create a clean, polished look that homeowners will notice. Plus, by going beyond the basics, you increase your chances of getting rave reviews and repeat bookings.

Whether you’re dealing with a few interior windows or tackling the exterior as well, these window cleaning tips will hopefully help you achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort. Remember, a little extra shine goes a long way!