How Often Should I Clean my Windows?
Most homeowners only think about window cleaning when the glass looks visibly dirty — but by that point, buildup has often already begun affecting clarity, longevity, and even the integrity of the glass. The ideal window cleaning schedule depends on your environment, home layout, and lifestyle. Below is a clear breakdown of what influences how quickly your windows get dirty, what happens when they’re left too long, and how often most homes should be professionally cleaned.
What causes windows to become dirty?
Exterior Factors
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Pollen and tree sap: Typically, in the Spring and early summer. Especially a factor for homes closer to forests or with more landscaping
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Road dust and air pollution: Home's that are on higher traffic roads like main roads, cut through streets, or a development main drag will attract road dust, especially if asphalt
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Insects and birds: Bugs and bird are drawn to glass for a combination of the light, reflection and heat glass produces
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Mineral deposits: The surfaces that surround a window like siding and brick hold a variety of different minerals that make their way onto the glass surface making them dirty
Interior Factors
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Dust & Airborne Particles: Fine particles moving throughout your home settle on glass surfaces, gradually affecting clarity even when smudges aren’t immediately visible.
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Cooking Oils & Smoke Residue: Microscopic grease and smoke from cooking bond to interior glass, creating a hazy film that standard wiping often fails to remove.
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Pet Dander & Hair: Pet activity introduces oils, dander, and hair that cling to windows, especially at lower panes and patio doors.
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Fingerprints & Smudges: Everyday contact from hands leaves behind oils and marks that quickly disrupt the clean appearance of interior glass
What happens if I don't clean my windows?
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Permanent Glass Damage: Minerals, hard water, and acidic deposits can etch into glass over time, permanently reducing clarity even after cleaning.
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Reduced Lifespan of Window Seals: Dirt buildup accelerates wear on window seals and frames, leading to premature failure.
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Increased Future Cleaning Costs: Heavily neglected glass requires specialized restoration rather than standard cleaning.
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Diminished Natural Light: Dirty windows reduce brightness inside your home, often without homeowners realizing it.
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Lower Curb Appeal & Home Value: First impressions matter — especially for resale or hosting
Professional window cleaning is not just cosmetic — it is preventative maintenance for your home.
Recommended window cleaning frequency for residential homes
For most residential homes a minimum of 2x Interior and Exterior cleaning appointments a year will keep your home looking beautiful and maintain the integrity of its windows. However, if a home has a heightened exposure to any of the above factors, homeowners should consider additional cleanings to combat said factors