How to Clean Outside Windows You Can’t Reach, Even If You Don’t Own a Ladder

Not only do sparkling clean windows allow maximum natural light to flood into your home, but they also contribute to the overall neatness of your space. If you live in an apartment or a house with multiple floors, you know that cleaning outside windows that you can’t reach can be a challenge. Luckily, there are several different methods you can choose from depending on the size and style of your windows.

You can use a ladder to clean hard-to-reach outside windows, however, if you are not comfortable doing so, there are alternatives that don’t require a ladder. You can use an extension pole, a garden hose, a telescopic U-shaped cleaner, and a magnetic window cleaner that’s particularly useful for apartment windows.

Whichever method you use, cleaning windows regularly is key to prevent dirt buildup which only makes it harder to clean. Aim to complete the task two to three times a year and use this comprehensive guide for how to clean outside windows you can’t reach.

How to Wash Windows Without a Ladder

If you are not comfortable using a ladder to clean outside windows, there are other alternatives that allow you to stay on the ground.

Extension Pole

1. Choose an extension pole. An extension pole has an adjustable length and most can reach both first and second floor windows comfortably. If you purchase a window cleaning kit that has an extension pole, it typically includes a variety of attachments such as a sponge and a squeegee.
2. Wash the windows. Working from the top down, set the extension pole to the appropriate length, attach the sponge, and scrub the windows clean with soapy water.
3. Use the squeegee attachment. Swap out the sponge attachment for the squeegee attachment to wipe the soapy water off the windows.
4. Adjust the extension pole. If you just cleaned second floor windows, adjust the height of the extension pole to clean first floor windows if you are not able to reach them without the pole and follow the same steps using the sponge and squeegee.

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Magnetic Window Cleaner

1. Choose a magnetic window cleaner. If you live in an apartment building where neither a ladder nor an extension pole will work, use a magnetic window cleaner. There are different types and sizes available, so choose the correct one depending on the size and style of your windows.
2. Dampen with window cleaning solution. Spray or dip each of the two magnetic cleaners in a window cleaning solution. Make sure you use enough of the solution so the sponge is wet but not dripping excessively.
3. Attach the magnetic cleaner. Place the two magnetic cleaners on either side of the window—one on the inside and one on the outside.
4. Clean the windows. Using the built-in handle on the interior sponge, clean the windows. Start in the top left or right corner, working your way down in slow and steady horizontal swipes.

Garden Hose

1. Spray the windows. Use the sprayer attachment on a garden hose and spray outside windows clean, concentrating on corners and crevices where dirt may have built up.
2. Scrub with a sponge. If you can reach the windows from the ground, scrub them clean with a sponge and soapy water.
3. Spray again. Use the garden hose with the sprayer attachment to get rid of the soap residue.
4. Wipe clean. Take a clean, dry microfiber cloth, and working from the top down, wipe the window clean in long horizontal swipes.

Telescopic U-Shaped Window Cleaner

1. Set up the telescopic window cleaner. Assemble the cleaning tool, which usually consists of a u-shaped metal pole that has an adjustable length and comes with multiple attachments.
2. Wash the window. Use the sponge attachment sprayed with a window cleaning solution to wash the window, working slowly and steadily from the top down in horizontal swipes.
3. Use the squeegee attachment. Swap out the sponge attachment for the squeegee attachment to wipe the window clean, using the same top to bottom method, working in horizontal rows.

How to Wash Windows With a Ladder

If you have chosen to wash outside windows with a ladder, ensure that it’s in good working condition first, take the proper safety precautions, and set it up correctly.

1. Inspect and secure the ladder. Before you start cleaning outside windows with a ladder, check the ladder’s condition. Make sure that it’s on a solid, flat surface, that it’s secured in place at a safe angle and not leaning against a window or gutter, and that you don’t exceed the ladder’s maximum weight limit.
2. Prepare the windows. Inspect all outside windows before you start cleaning and take note of any cracks that may need repairs. Additionally, remove screens and brush off any solid dirt and cobwebs.
3. Prepare your supplies. You will need a bucket with soapy water, a sponge, a squeegee, and a microfiber cloth to clean outside windows.
4. Put on safety gear. If needed, put on safety gear such as a helmet or a harness before you climb up the ladder.
5. Wash the windows. Use the sponge and soapy water to scrub outside windows clean. Follow up with a squeegee and microfiber cloth to remove excess water and prevent streaks.
6. Take time climbing down. Be careful and take your time as you come down the ladder with all your cleaning supplies.

Best Tips for Cleaning Windows You Can’t Reach

• Clean upper windows before lower ones. Always clean the top windows first before cleaning the lower windows. This will avoid dirty water from upper windows dripping on already cleaned lower windows which would cause you to double the work.
• Work from the top down. When cleaning a window, start at the top and make your way down.
• Work in a steady horizontal motion. Instead of vigorously scrubbing, clean windows in a slow and steady horizontal motion, moving from one side to the other starting at the top and working your way down.
• Check the weather. Before you start cleaning outside windows, check the weather. Avoid cleaning windows on days when the sun is too intense as this can cause the window cleaning solution to dry too fast and result in streaks. Additionally, do not clean windows on windy days when dust and dirt can make the task more difficult, or on days when rain is forecasted.
• Use microfiber towels. To remove excess moisture and wipe windows clean and dry, use microfiber cloths. They don’t shed, cause streaks, or scratch glass surfaces.
• Clean outside windows regularly. In order to prevent dirt from building up on outside windows, regular cleaning is needed. Plan to clean outside windows two to three times a year.