Ah, the good old squeegee. From being first patented in 1936, this reliable tool has now become an integral part of traditional window cleaning. 

Even though its invention was nearly a decade ago, it is still being used frequently, both by professionals and regular homeowners, to give windows a clean, streak-free look. 

We will talk about traditional window cleaning in this post, highlighting how you can use simple, manual tools to properly clean your windows. You will also find some insider tips and tricks from one of the top window cleaning services in the Midwest. Let’s get started!

What Is Traditional Window Cleaning

Traditional window cleaning is about two things: the tools and the technique. Simple tools like a squeegee and a microfiber cloth are used for this method. When it comes to techniques, you are likely familiar with the “S” pattern and overlapping passes people do with squeegees.

This method of cleaning windows has been around for decades, nearing a century. It’s accessible and it provides great results. As a result, if you are a homeowner or someone given the task of cleaning windows, learning the traditional window cleaning method will be a great help.

Well, we’re going to give it all to you. From what type of equipment you need to simple tips and tricks to remove any spot from your windows.

Tools & Equipment Required for Traditional Window Cleaning

These are the tools you will need for traditional window cleaning:

  • Squeegee: The primary cleaning tool for removing water and detergent all at once; a rubber blade held in a U-shaped tube.
  • Glass scraper: A sharp-edged tool used to remove adhesive, paint, or other sticky substances before squeegeeing.
  • Microfiber cloths/technopads: Very absorbent, lint-free pads are used to clean frame edges, polish them, and dry overlaps.
  • Bucket & cleaning solution: Distilled water prevents mineral streaks in hard-water areas. Usually a combination of water, light detergent (or vinegar), and occasionally isopropyl alcohol.
  • Extension/cleaning poles: For reaching high windows from the ground, minimizing ladder use; must be kept clear of electrical lines and inspected before each use.

Techniques & Best Practices

Now let’s look at some tips and tricks to get the best results after cleaning your windows: 

1. Pre-wet and Scrub

Before you wipe the glass with your squeegee, ensure the surface is somewhat wet with your cleaner. 

Using overlapped strokes and a microfiber sleeve, begin at the top corner and work your way down to softly loosen and dislodge dirt from the surface. 

Give particular care to areas that won’t come off, such as tree sap or bird droppings. Apply the solution again and rub it around until they do.  

The blade gets oiled in this stage to prevent scratching. It also helps to loosen any grime on it.

2. “S” Pattern Squeegeeing

 

Position the blade flush with the top corner of the pane at roughly 30°. Without raising the blade, draw in a smooth, continuous “S” form first down and in, then back out and up. 

This design rapidly drains water throughout the whole width; the edge remaining in contact with the surface prevents drip lines from developing. 

After each stroke, wipe the rubber edge with a clean microfiber towel to remove accumulation and maintain the swipes extremely clean.

3. Four-Pass Method

For larger panes, break the surface into quadrants.

  1. Upper-left: two overlapping strokes, top to midline.
  2. Upper-right: repeat.
  3. Lower-left and lower-right: mirror the same two strokes from the midline down. Between each pass, clean the squeegee blade. By systematically covering every inch with a slight overlap, you ensure no narrow “dead zones” of moisture remain.

4. Edge Cleanup

Once the majority of the water is gone, run a folded technopad or microfiber towel around the edges. Gently pinch the fabric around the window’s edge since that is where drips usually collect. 

Any remaining film or droplets will be caught by this “detail work,” which will also leave a clear edge, finishing the professional appearance.

5. Frame & Sill

At last, remember the window sill and frame. Then let it dry totally after wiping the glass stage clean of any solution or grit that accidentally got onto it. 

Cleaning the sill will prevent the dust from returning on your clean glass the next time it rains.