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Window cleaner settles debate on whether to clean when it is sunny

Cleaning windows can be a tricky task, especially when the sun is shining here's what the experts say

[Cleaning windows. Close-up of female hands rubbing window pane]

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There is much debate over cleaning windows when it's sunny(Image: sankai via Getty Images)

Keeping windows spotless can prove challenging, particularly when sunny conditions expose every speck of dust and grime. Stained, smeared, and streaked glass can be an eyesore.

Bright sunshine can highlight dirt, making it tempting to tackle window cleaning during fine weather. However, this could prove problematic as sunlight actually makes the task considerably more difficult.

Direct rays can cause cleaning products to evaporate rapidly, create unsightly streaks, and potentially damage the glass. Applying cold water to extremely hot glass can trigger thermal shock, potentially leading to cracking.

Beyond potential window damage, sunlight can make it difficult to determine whether the glass has been thoroughly cleaned.

[A person is using a blue squeegee to clean a window, holding a spray cleaner in the other hand. Bright light streams in, highlighting the clean surface and vibrant surroundings.]

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Don't clean your window on a sunny day(Image: zoff-photo via Getty Images)

Cleaning expert Lynsey Crombie recommends avoiding window cleaning on bright days. Her guidance is to tackle exterior windows only when they're shaded and to use warm, soapy water.

Window-cleaning professional Jake Lucero, who operates Pink's Window Cleaning, also weighed in on the discussion, noting that cleaning in direct sunlight can be "tough".

When questioned in a TikTok clip about whether windows can be cleaned in full sun, he explained: "You can, but it is definitely hard. The reason being is that we use water and dish soap to clean windows, so if the glass is super hot it dries really fast, leaving streaks before you have even squeegeed it."

Jake's tip is to clean windows in the shade and during cooler parts of the day so the glass isn't too hot. In his caption, he added: "This will allow you to actually clean the windows before the soapy solution dries."

How to clean windows

Lynsey shared her technique for cleaning windows when they're not in direct sunlight. She recommends that warm, soapy water "works best".

After preparing your solution in a bucket, take it outdoors. Begin by brushing off any cobwebs or dirt from the window surface.

Dip a cloth into your bucket of soapy water and begin wiping the glass from the top downwards using circular movements. After the entire window has been cleaned, use a squeegee or window vacuum to get rid of the water.

Lynsey always ensures she wipes horizontally along the window's base to clear any water that gathers there.

Alternatively, you can use a crumpled sheet of newspaper to soak up any remaining moisture and achieve a polished finish.

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