Do you know that satisfying feeling when sunlight floods through squeaky-clean windows, making everything inside your home feel a little brighter? Yeah, that’s the goal. But then you remember—your windows are those tricky double-hung ones.
Don’t worry, you’ve got this. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to clean double hung windows, what tools you’ll need, and a few handy tips to fix any issues.
Contents
Understanding Tilt-In vs. Non-Tilting Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are pretty common in homes, but not all of them work the same way. Some tilt in, and some… just don’t.
The tilt-in version has sashes that, in addition to sliding up and down, also pivot inward, making it way easier for you to clean both sides of the glass. These are great for upper floors because you can clean from the inside.
On the other hand, non-tilting double-hung windows stay firmly in the frame and only slide in the rails they’re fitted in. They’re only seen in older construction these days. You’ll have to access the exterior glass from the outside, which means you might be heading up a ladder or using a tool with a long reach.
Tools and Supplies Needed
You don’t need a closet full of gadgets but just a solid collection of window-cleaning basics.
- Warm water
- A bucket
- A gentle cleaning solution (dish soap and water work great).
- A microfiber cloth or sponge
- A squeegee (for streak-free finishes)
- A towel (to catch drips.)
- A soft-bristle brush or old toothbrush (for dirt-packed tracks and frames)
- Paper towels or lint-free cloths for drying.
- A sturdy ladder or an extension pole with a window-cleaning head (for non-tilting windows)
How to Clean Double Hung Windows With Tilt Function?
Let’s begin with the more common and easier titing double hung windows.
Step 1: Prepare the Window
Unlock the window and raise the bottom sash up, about 3 to 4 inches. Then, press the tilt latches inward and carefully tilt the bottom sash toward you until it is at a comfortable angle.
Repeat the same move with the upper sash after lowering it a bit. Make sure you’re working slowly—forcing it could damage the frame or the sash pivot system.
This video will explain to you how to tilt your windows without damaging them:
Step 2: Clean the Glass
With both sashes tilted in, you now have access to both the interior and exterior surfaces of the glass. Start by wiping down the exterior side with your soapy solution and a microfiber cloth.
Rinse with clean water if needed and follow with a squeegee to avoid streaks. Dry the edges with a clean towel. Repeat on the interior glass surfaces. Working top to bottom helps prevent dirty drips on your freshly cleaned glass.
Step 3: Clean the Frames and Tracks
First, wipe down the window frames with a damp cloth to remove dust and smudges. Then move to the tracks and use your brush or a toothbrush to shake off gunk and debris. Wipe or, better yet, vacuum loose dirt and finish with a wipe-down. A little extra time here makes sure your windows slide like butter.
Step 4: Reassemble the Window
When all is clean and dry, tilt the sashes back into position. Press until you hear or feel them click into the frame. Then, slide them up and down a few times to make sure they’re seated correctly—and you’re finished.
This short video summarizes how to clean double-hung window steps. Check out for better understanding:
How to Clean Double-Hung Windows Without a Tilt-in Function
No-tilting windows need a tad bit more work. But you should be fine following the given directions.
Step 1: Clean the Exterior Glass
For first-floor windows, a step ladder and extension pole should be sufficient. For higher floors, get a secure ladder or professional help.
Scrub the window glass with soapy water and a window scrubber, and then dry with a squeegee. Clean in sections and wipe your squeegee blade clean with a towel between each swipe to prevent streaks.
Step 2: Clean the Interior Glass
Back inside, the process is a breeze. Use your same soapy solution and microfiber cloth on the interior glass. Don’t go too heavy on the water—you don’t want drips running down into the frame.
Follow with a squeegee or a lint-free dry cloth. It helps to clean on a cloudy day so you can actually see smudges instead of fighting glare.
Step 3: Clean the Frames and Tracks
Just like with tilt windows, those frames and tracks collect dirt like magnets. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frames and handles. Then, slide both the sashes first down and then up to free the tracks.
Scrub with your brush or vacuum to clear away dust and debris. A spritz of mild cleaner and a final wipe will leave them looking good as new—and functioning better, too.
Step 4: Address Hard-to-Reach Spots
If there’s a spot you just can’t reach (hello, awkward corners or upper panes), try a telescoping window-cleaning tool with a pivoting head. They’re designed for this exact job and save you from the ladder circus. For really stubborn grime, a plastic scraper used gently can help without scratching the glass. Patience and the right tool go a long way here—don’t risk injury for one smudge.
And there you have it. Whether your double-hung windows give you the gift of tilt or challenge you with a no-nonsense fixed frame, you now know exactly how to get them spotless.
Check out this video for a detailed double-hung cleaning method and how to use a squeegee for a streak-less finish:
Troubleshooting Most Common Cleaning Problems
You may run into a few problems while cleaning your windows. Let’s see why they happen and how to solve them:
- Streaky Glass: Resulting from too much soap or not drying fast enough.
→ Use less detergent and always dry with a squeegee or a lint-free cloth. - Cloudy Spots or Stains: Usually hard water stains or mineral buildup.
→ Try a mixture of vinegar and water, and scrub gently with a microfiber cloth. - Gunk in Tracks: Dirt, leaves, and debris can clog up the tracks.
→ Vacuum first, then use a brush and damp cloth to clean thoroughly. - Stuck or Stiff Sashes: Dirt or misalignment may be blocking smooth movement.
→ Clean around the sash pivots and apply a silicone spray lubricant if needed. - Hard-to-Reach Corners: Some spots just don’t want to cooperate.
→ Use a telescoping window-cleaning tool or a pivoting head attachment to reach those areas safely.
Conclusion
Cleaning double-hung windows—tilt or no-tilt—doesn’t have to be intimidating. That’s why we have cleared in this blog exactly how to clean double-hung windows and make the process manageable. Follow the guides, and you’ll bring in more light, boost curb appeal, and extend the life of your windows.
And if you’re dreaming of new windows altogether or need expert help, contact Mannlee—your trusted partner in all types of window manufacturing. We’re here to make every view picture-perfect.
