Get Started
Written by Grove Collaborative

Easy ways to clean windows without chemicals.

Last Updated: January 3, 2022


Find out how to clean the inside and outside of your windows with a few simple steps and natural ingredients.

JUMP TO SECTION

If windows aren’t high on your cleaning list, you’re letting all kinds of dirt collect on the inside, and the results of the seasonal elements on the outside.


While it might seem like quite the chore to clean every window in the house, it can be done efficiently with a few simple steps and natural ingredients.

What is the best thing to clean windows with?

We have good news! You don’t need to turn to chemical-filled products to get the clean, streak-free windows you want.


You have a few options to choose from for your cleaning solution without chemicals. You can clean your windows with vinegar and water or water with a few drops of dish soap.


If you opt for water and vinegar, you’ll need equal parts white vinegar and hot water. To use dish soap, combine cold water with a few drops of dish soap.


To clean your interior windows without chemicals, you’ll need:



To clean your exterior windows without chemicals, you’ll need:


  • Cleaning gloves
  • A garden hose
  • Your DIY cleaning solution
  • A ladder or long pole to clean high up windows
  • A scrubber or sponge
  • A squeegee and towels

Shop for natural window cleaning products from Grove.

Become a Grove member

Wondering who Grove is, what types of products we offer, and how to get a free gift set when you sign up? Learn more about flexible monthly shipments, customizing your shipment, and joining millions of happy households — no monthly fees or commitments required.

Learn more

As you’ve likely seen, the exterior of your windows can get much dirtier and may take a bit longer to get them completely clean. While professional window washers use squeegees indoors and out, it may not be the best option for you, especially indoors. If you know how to properly use a squeegee without making a mess, go for it! If you’re not as experienced, opt for the tried and true towels or newspaper to ensure you’re not getting your solution on the floor.


You might be wondering if chemical-free cleaning alternatives like vinegar can damage your windows. Thankfully, vinegar is not harmful to your windows, and is a great option that easily cuts through dirt and doesn’t leave streaks.


It is important to note that vinegar can be harmful to the surrounding areas like wood or metal frames. To avoid vinegar making contact with these surfaces, we recommend using a towel to cover the areas.

Try Aunt Fannie's Glass & Window Vinegar Wash


From the outside looking in, most glass cleaners leave behind some sort of residue—and the ones that don’t are usually full of crazy chemicals we can’t even pronounce. Aunt Fannie's Glass and Window Vinegar Wash does just the opposite. It leaves your glass and windows streak-free without using toxic ingredients. This microbiome-friendly window and glass wash is safe to use around your kids and pets too because it’s plant-based and nontoxic.

Find it here!

What is the easiest way to clean windows?

Cleaning your inside windows can be quick and painless when using the right tools. One tip before getting started is to make sure you’re tackling this chore during a cloudy day.


Cleaning your windows on a sunny, hot day can result in your water and cleaning solution drying and even leaving behind streaks.


Here are 6 easy steps for cleaning windows without streaks:


  1. Fill a bucket or spray bottle with your DIY cleaning solution. To avoid chemicals, use a DIY mixture or glass vinegar spray mentioned above.
  2. Prepare your area by placing a towel on the ground or window sill to catch drips or spills.
  3. Run your microfiber cloth down the entire window and frame to get off any excess dirt or dust.
  4. Spray your window generously with your vinegar and water solution.
  5. Use a clean microfiber towel, newspaper page, paper towel, or squeegee (be sure to wipe off your squeegee after every pass and avoid getting the solution on the floor) to clean the window in a Z- shaped motion.
  6. If needed, repeat these steps until clean.

How do you clean dirty outdoor windows?

Outdoor windows will get dirtier but require the same process to clean.


  1. Choose your supplies. As mentioned above, you may not want to use a squeegee if you’re inexperienced, as it can create a mess. Since you’ll be outdoors, a squeegee isn’t as risky.
  2. Start with your hose, and spray windows thoroughly to get rid of excess dirt.
  3. Next, go in with your cleaning solution, applying thoroughly to the entire window.
  4. Use your scrubber or sponge as needed, and then use your microfiber cloth to clean off the solution.
  5. If working on higher windows, use a secure ladder or long pole to access them.
  6. Rinse your exterior window with a hose.
  7. Reapply your cleaning solution as needed, continuing to scrub your windows clean.
  8. To dry your exterior windows, you may use a squeegee, cloth, or newspaper.

If you run into incredibly stubborn dirt, utilize the power of your vinegar by spraying directly onto the problem area(s) and letting it sit—then, couple this with a sponge and scrubber to loosen the dirt and clean stains.

Shop for more natural glass cleaners from Grove.

Follow Jonathan Van Ness' lead and try plastic-free natural products from Grove

Shop Now

Read more from Grove.

Join thousands of happy customers creating a healthier home. Get started to select your free welcome set!
Claim My Offer