Windows are one of the most important assets in your home, and you don't want to neglect cleaning and maintaining them. Luckily, you don't have to worry about finding an expensive window cleaning service to get optimal results.

Ready to learn how to make your windows sparkle? To get you started, we’re sharing our top tips along with some professional advice from Micah Nijjar of Micah’s Window Cleaning in the San Francisco Bay Area.

There are a lot of window cleaners on the store shelves but making your own cleaner is a simple and cost-effective option that will still leave your glass glistening.

Best DIY window cleaning solution

• Nijjar recommends making your own cleaner by mixing 2 to 3 gallons of water with a 10-second squeeze of dish detergent.
• Vinegar-and-water-based solutions are another effective window cleaner using what you likely already have. Just mix one part distilled white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.

Best window cleaning tools

Ready to start gathering your window washing equipment? 

• Microfiber cloths are soft and useful at every step so stock up on these. 
• A T-bar scrubber or soft sponges, without abrasive coatings, for washing the glass.   
• A squeegee for wiping away water. Nijjar recommends a brass one because its extra weight makes it easier to maneuver. If you can’t find brass, aluminum or stainless-steel work well too. If you have very large windows, you might want an 18-inch squeegee.
• A bucket will be needed, if you’re using a homemade soap solution. 
• A small brush or whisk broom to sweep away debris at the bottom of the window or in between the glass and the screen. 

Some important things to avoid when choosing equipment are razor blades and abrasive cleaners or solvents as these can scratch or damage window glass. Pressure washing is also not advised because it may cause damage to parts of the window.