The Best Time of Day and Year to Clean Your Windows
Want clean, gleaming glass without the frustration of streaks or smears? Timing matters more than you think. This article explores when to clean your windows for the best results, based on temperature, sunlight, seasonal changes, and environmental factors. Whether you're a fan of DIY window cleaning or prefer to call in the pros, this guide will help you plan like an expert. Here's what you'll learn:
The ideal seasons and months for streak-free shine
What time of day offers the cleanest results
How to avoid common pitfalls like direct sunlight or freezing temperatures
Smart tips for interior and exterior window care
Whether you should go it alone or hire a professional window cleaning service
How weather, dirt, and pollen affect your glass year-round
Let’s get into it.
Clean Windows Start With Smart Timing
Most homeowners or facilities managers only think of cleaning their windows when they can’t see out of them anymore. But that’s already too late. The best time to clean windows is before grime builds up—not after. While there’s no universal answer, certain times of the year and specific times of the day give you a better shot at streak-free windows.
Best Seasons for Window Cleaning
When it comes to seasonal window care, think spring and autumn. These two periods are golden for several reasons:
Temperatures are typically moderate—between 10°C and 24°C (50°F–75°F)
The sun is gentler, so you can avoid smears and streaks
It’s a great time to tackle pollen buildup, rain spots, and winter residue
“Spring is when your windows need the most love—after months of wet, windy weather and heating systems pumping indoor pollutants onto the glass.”
In fact, many of our UK-wide customers opt to schedule their professional cleans in April or October, aligning with these optimal weather patterns.
What About Summer and Winter?
Although longer daylight hours may tempt you to tackle your residential window cleaning in the summer, UV exposure on windows and high temperatures can dry your solution too fast, leaving streaks before you finish the job.
Conversely, winter brings frozen panes and icy tools. If you must clean in colder months, choose cool, clear days and avoid cleaning in sub-zero conditions. Use lukewarm water and add a splash of antifreeze for glass-safe cleaning practices.
Best Time of Day for Crystal Clarity
Once you’ve picked the right season, what time of day should you clean? The answer: early morning or late afternoon.
Here’s why:
The sun is lower in the sky, which means less direct sunlight
Surfaces are cooler, preventing rapid evaporation
You’ll see dirt more clearly thanks to better sunlight visibility on dirt at angles
Cleaning in the midday heat is a rookie mistake—it almost guarantees streaks.
Also, low-humidity conditions during these times help prevent moisture from drying unevenly. Bonus tip: check your local forecast and pick a cloudy day if possible.
Frequency Matters
Cleaning at the right time won’t help if you don’t clean often enough. For most homes and businesses, the frequency of cleaning should be:
Twice a year: Spring and fall for general upkeep
Quarterly: If you live near dirt roads, construction sites, or coastal areas
Monthly: For storefronts or areas with heavy urban window cleaning needs
Using the right window cleaning tools like a professional-grade squeegee, mineral-free water, and eco-safe soap also goes a long way—whether you’re doing it yourself or booking a pro.
Essential Tools for a Streak-Free Finish
Anyone who’s attempted DIY window cleaning knows it’s deceptively tricky. Clean glass can look worse than before if done without proper equipment. Whether you're a hands-on homeowner or a facilities manager overseeing commercial maintenance, your results hinge on your tools.
Must-Have Gear:
Professional-grade squeegee – Ensures an even wipe and eliminates leftover drips
Scrubber applicator – Loosens grime before the final pass
Mineral-free water – Tap water often leaves mineral stains; purified water is ideal
Eco-friendly window cleaner – Non-toxic and safe for both indoor and exterior use
Water-fed pole system – A great option for high-rise window cleaning or hard-to-reach places
Microfibre cloths – For wiping down edges and frames without lint or scratches
“Think of it like glass care, not just glass cleaning. The wrong cloth or soapy residue can age your windows faster than time.”
If you’re cleaning on a budget, you can also try a mix of dish soap and warm water—just avoid anything that foams too much, as it’s harder to rinse off cleanly.
Environmental Conditions: What to Watch Out For
Even if your technique is flawless, nature has a say in how clean your windows stay. Environmental conditions can quickly sabotage your best efforts.
Key Considerations:
Pollen buildup: Common in spring, it leaves a yellow film on windows
Rainwater spots: Especially noticeable after summer showers or hard water
Wind: Dust and debris can stick to recently cleaned panes
Humidity: Slows drying time, increasing the chance of smears
UV exposure: Speeds up solution drying, leading to patchy results
Freezing conditions: Can crack glass if hot water is used (always opt for lukewarm)
For urban window cleaning, pollution particles and vehicle exhausts cling to glass and accumulate faster—another reason to stay ahead with consistent cleaning.
Should You DIY or Call the Pros?
There’s pride in cleaning your own windows—but there’s also risk. Beyond the effort, improper tools or timing can leave behind streaks, or worse, cause permanent damage to your frames or seals.
You might want to DIY if:
You have ground-floor windows only
You enjoy the satisfaction of hands-on maintenance
You already own some window cleaning tools
You’re cleaning before an event or holiday and need it done immediately
But professional cleaning is the better choice if:
Your windows are difficult to access (above the first floor, in awkward corners, etc.)
You want long-lasting, streak-free windows without trial and error
You lack the time or tools for seasonal deep cleans
You want to maintain curb appeal year-round
Our expert team at Pivotal Window Cleaning uses advanced methods, including water-fed poles and eco-safe solutions, to give your windows a flawless finish without damaging the glass or frames.
Prepping for a Successful Window Clean
Cleaning windows isn’t just about the glass. Preparation plays a crucial role in how effective and efficient the process will be.
Here's how to prep like a pro:
Check the weather: Avoid hot or freezing days. Aim for mild weather or slightly overcast conditions with low humidity.
Clear the area: Move furniture, blinds, and nearby items away from the windows to create safe access.
Dust the frames and sills: Use a brush or vacuum to remove loose dirt and cobwebs before applying any solution.
Protect floors and window coverings: Lay down towels or plastic sheeting to catch drips, especially for interior window cleaning.
Mix your solution properly: Overly strong mixtures or harsh chemicals can damage seals and finishes. Opt for a glass-safe, eco-friendly window cleaner.
“Preparation can be the difference between crystal-clear panes and frustrating streaks that appear as the sun sets.”
Avoid These Common Window Cleaning Mistakes
Even experienced DIYers can fall into these traps. If you're aiming for streak-free windows, avoid direct sunlight, and don't do the following:
Cleaning on sunny afternoons
The heat causes solutions to dry too quickly, leaving smudges and watermarks.
Using paper towels or newspapers
They can disintegrate or leave lint. Use microfibre cloths or a professional-grade squeegee instead.
Neglecting corners and edges
Grime builds up here first. Wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth and check for hard water stains.
Using unfiltered tap water
Minerals in tap water cause spots. For the best results, use mineral-free water or purified rinse systems.
Skipping the frames
Cleaning only the glass and ignoring the frames can lead to dirt dripping back onto your clean surface.
If you want professional results every time, it might be easier to trust Pivotal Window Cleaning to handle it—especially for exterior window cleaning or taller buildings.
The Ultimate Window Cleaning Checklist
Use this as your go-to seasonal guide for residential or light commercial cleaning:
✅ Window Cleaning Checklist
Chosen a day with cloud cover or mild temperatures
Cleaned in early morning or late afternoon
Cleared dust and debris from sills and tracks
Mixed a non-toxic, streak-free cleaning solution
Used a squeegee and microfibre cloths
Paid attention to corners and edges
Avoided direct sunlight and windy days
Cleaned both interior and exterior windows (as accessible)
Checked for pollen buildup, rainwater spots, and UV exposure effects
Scheduled next clean based on frequency of cleaning needs
Final Thoughts: Keep Your View Clear All Year
Timing, tools, and technique—get these three right, and you're on your way to flawless windows that brighten up your entire space. Remember: spring and autumn are your allies. Cloudy mornings are your best friend. And the right gear can make or break your results.
Whether you're dealing with urban pollution, seaside salt, or countryside dust, a consistent approach is key to great window maintenance.
Not sure if your property needs attention yet? Our experts cover locations across the UK, and we’d be happy to help. Request a tailored quote here and keep your outlook as clear as possible—season after season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): The Best Time of Day and Year to Clean Your Windows
Here are 10 of the most commonly asked questions about choosing the right time to clean your windows—focusing on topics not yet covered in the main article.
1. Can I clean windows during light rain?
Light rain doesn’t necessarily ruin a clean, especially if you're using mineral-free water. However, it's best to avoid cleaning during or just before rainfall to prevent rainwater spots and avoid slippery working conditions—particularly for exterior window cleaning.
2. What’s the best window cleaning schedule for businesses in high-traffic areas?
In areas with heavy foot or vehicle traffic, windows should be cleaned monthly, or even bi-weekly, depending on exposure to pollution, smudges, and fingerprints. High-street shops often schedule early morning cleans before business hours.
3. Is it worth cleaning windows just before or after a storm?
Post-storm is a perfect time, as dirt, dust, and plant matter often accumulate during bad weather. Cleaning beforehand, however, is not recommended unless necessary—storm debris can quickly undo your efforts.
4. Should I clean windows before putting up holiday decorations or lights?
Yes—cleaning windows before holidays helps improve visibility and aesthetics, especially for homes or businesses using window lighting or displays. Dirty glass can dampen the effect of decorations.
5. Can I clean windows at night?
Technically yes, but it’s not ideal. Poor visibility increases the chance of missed spots and streaks. It’s always better to clean in natural light, particularly during early morning or late afternoon.
6. How does pollen season affect the timing of window cleaning?
Pollen buildup can heavily coat exterior glass, especially in spring. It’s best to wait until peak pollen drops to avoid having to re-clean days later. Consider scheduling your spring clean toward the end of the pollen cycle in your region.
7. Should I clean windows after having them replaced or repaired?
Absolutely. After installation, glass often has leftover dust, sealant residue, or adhesive marks. Wait a few days to allow all materials to set, then clean with glass-safe solutions.
8. Can cold-weather window cleaning damage my windows?
Yes—cleaning with hot water in freezing temperatures can cause glass to crack. Always use lukewarm water and be cautious with chemical cleaners in low temperatures, as they can react unpredictably on cold glass.
9. When is the best time to clean skylights or roof windows?
These are best cleaned during spring or early autumn on an overcast day with no wind. It’s also safest when roof surfaces are dry. Skylights collect more grime from rain and pollen than standard windows, so schedule them in tandem with your seasonal clean.
10. Do different types of glass require different cleaning times or methods?
Yes. Tinted, laminated, or double-glazed windows often have protective coatings that may be sensitive to harsh sunlight or temperature shifts. Cleaning during mild weather and avoiding abrasive tools is crucial. Always check the manufacturer’s care guide if unsure.
