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Clean Like Mike: Tips, Tricks, and Tidbits for a Cleaner Home

Quick reads on keeping your windows, gutters, and solar panels spotless!

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Professional window cleaner using a squeegee to clean a large exterior window, achieving a streak-free finish.

10 Quick Tips for Streak-Free Windows All Year

November 05, 20244 min read

Nothing feels quite as satisfying as gazing through spotless, streak-free windows. Whether it’s tackling high windows, choosing the right tools, or dealing with Mildura’s sunny climate, we’ve got you covered. Here’s Mike’s expert guide to achieving crystal-clear windows all year, packed with practical tips and the best equipment recommendations to make your views shine.

Start Fresh: Dust Frames, Tracks, and Sills First

Before you get to the glass, clear out dust and dirt from the window frames, tracks, and sills. This step prevents dirt from smudging onto your clean windows. Grab a handheld vacuum or duster to tackle these spots quickly.

Get the Right Tools: Quality Squeegee and T-Bar

Mike recommends using only high-quality tools for the best results, including top brands like Ettore and Sorbo for squeegee rubbers. These trusted brands are known for their durability and performance, ensuring a streak-free, professional finish. Pair a good squeegee with a window cleaning T-bar and a bucket of soapy water to apply an even layer across the glass, and you’re ready to achieve a spotless shine.

Skip the Sprays – Except for Halo Glass Cleaner

For most windows, stick with the squeegee and T-bar for a professional-grade clean. However, if you’re dealing with frosted glass or need a quick touch-up, Mike suggests using Halo Glass Cleaner. It’s the only spray he recommends, perfect for light maintenance without the need for full equipment.

Avoid Cleaning Windows on Sunny Days

Sunlight speeds up drying time, which can lead to streaks. Instead, choose an overcast day or start on the shaded side of the house. In Mildura’s sunny climate, this trick makes all the difference for a streak-free finish.

Use Microfiber Cloths for a Perfect Finish

Microfiber cloths are ideal for drying windows after squeegeeing—they’re lint-free, super absorbent, and leave no streaks. Use them to wipe the edges and corners after using the squeegee, ensuring a clean, polished look.

Window Cleaning for High Windows

High windows can be challenging, but with the right tools, they’re manageable. Invest in an extendable pole or telescopic squeegee to reach those higher spots safely. For added convenience, some tools feature angle-adjustable heads, making it easy to clean even the trickiest corners.

Clean Screens to Maximise Clarity

Remove screens and clean them with a soapy solution to prevent dust from sticking back onto your windows. Clean screens not only keep your windows clear but also let more natural light into your home.

Window Cleaning Equipment

The right equipment can make or break your window-cleaning efforts. Here’s what Mike recommends:

  • High-Quality Squeegee: Essential for a streak-free, professional finish.

  • Window Cleaning T-Bar: For applying an even layer of soapy water to the glass.

  • Microfiber Cloths: Perfect for drying edges and polishing.

  • Extendable Pole or Ladder: For safe cleaning of high windows.

Alternate Wiping Directions for Streak Detection

If you’re finishing with a cloth, wipe horizontally on one side of the window and vertically on the other. This method makes it easier to see which side any remaining streaks are on, so you can avoid re-cleaning both sides.

Refresh Blinds and Curtains While You’re at It

Dusty blinds and curtains can leave residue on clean windows. Wipe blinds with a microfiber cloth and pop curtains into the dryer on an “air only” cycle to shake out dust without wrinkles.

Window Cleaning Mildura

In Mildura, where sunlight and dust can build up quickly, regular cleaning is key. Aim for a thorough window clean twice a year, ideally in spring and fall, with touch-ups as needed. High-quality tools and regular dusting of frames and screens will keep Mildura’s sunny views crystal-clear.

Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule

Regular cleaning makes window upkeep easier and prevents tough grime buildup. Tackle windows every six months for best results, and more frequently for high-traffic windows like those facing busy streets or gardens.

Common Window Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best tools and techniques, some common mistakes can leave streaks or make the job harder than it needs to be. Here’s what to avoid:

  • Mistake #1: Cleaning Windows on a Sunny Day It might seem like a good idea, but direct sunlight causes cleaning solutions to dry too quickly, leaving streaks. Opt for overcast days or start on the shady side of your home for the best results.

  • Mistake #2: Skipping the Dusting Step Dust first, clean second—this prevents turning dirt into a muddy mess.

  • Mistake #3: Using an Old Rag to Dry Windows Use a microfiber cloth instead of cotton rags or old newspapers. They’re reusable and leave no residue behind, ensuring a streak-free shine every time.

  • Mistake #4: Going All In with the Squeegee If you’re not familiar with squeegee technique, start with smaller windows first. Squeegees are ideal for large windows but can be tricky on smaller surfaces.

  • Mistake #5: Tackling All Your Windows in One Day Cleaning every window at once can be overwhelming. Try doing one room at a time to make the job more manageable.

With these tips in your toolkit, streak-free, sparkling windows are within reach year-round. From the right cleaning tools to simple techniques, you’ll have everything you need for crystal-clear views.

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Mike Marrable

Mike Marrable is the founder of Mike’s Window, Gutter, and Solar Cleaning in Mildura. Moving from Melbourne to enjoy the warmer climate, Mike quickly established a trusted business focused on quality service and community rapport. While facing challenges from rising costs and competition, he’s passionate about educating clients on solar maintenance, aiming to help locals get the most from their solar investment.

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Why should I get my solar panels cleaned by a professional?

Regular solar panel cleaning ensures that your panels operate at peak efficiency. Dust, bird droppings, and grime can block sunlight, reducing the amount of power your panels generate. With Mike’s professional-grade equipment and pure water system, we leave your panels spotless and more effective, without the risk of damage that DIY methods can cause.

What’s special about the equipment you use for solar panel cleaning?

We use state-of-the-art equipment specifically designed for solar panels, including rotating brushes and water purification systems that leave no residue. Our water is purified to 000 parts per million, meaning there’s zero contamination left on your panels – a requirement in many panel warranties. This ensures maximum efficiency and long-term panel health.

Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your services?

Yes! For bird proofing, we use high-quality Vexo solar mesh with a 6-year UV warranty to withstand the Australian climate. Plus, we back our work with a 3-year guarantee against birds re-entering. If you have any issues with our installation, we’ll fix it free of charge.

How often should I have my solar panels, gutters, and windows cleaned?

For solar panels, we recommend cleaning once a year to maintain peak performance. Gutters should ideally be cleaned at least twice a year to prevent blockages and water damage. Windows benefit from a clean at least once or twice a year, depending on your property’s exposure to dust and weather.

What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve the Sunraysia region, including Mildura, Merbein, Irymple, Dareton, Red Cliffs, Buronga, Nichols Point, and Wentworth. For larger commercial jobs, we may consider locations outside this area.

Is there a minimum job size for window and solar panel cleaning?

Generally, there’s no minimum job size, but pricing is often more economical for properties with multiple panels or windows. For residential solar cleaning, our rate starts at $160 for up to 20 panels, and for windows, we offer tailored pricing based on property size and requirements.

What’s the benefit of using purified water for solar cleaning?

Purified water leaves no residue, ensuring that your panels dry spotless and without streaks. Many providers use tap water, which contains minerals that can leave spots or reduce efficiency. Using 000 ppm pure water is a standard we uphold because it complies with most solar panel warranties and provides the cleanest, most effective results.

Do you do inspections or provide advice on solar panel issues?

Absolutely. Mike is certified in panel inspections and fault-finding, and he uses thermal imaging to identify potential issues that might impact performance. This means that every cleaning includes a basic inspection, and we’ll alert you if we spot any problems.

What is the process if I need multiple services?

Easy! Just let us know which services you’re interested in, and we’ll provide a bundled quote that covers all your needs – from solar panel cleaning to gutter and window maintenance. Mike’s flexible scheduling allows us to handle multiple services in a single visit, so it’s efficient and cost-effective for you.

How do I book a service?

Booking is simple! You can text us at 0499 602 499, email us at [email protected], or complete our online form, and we’ll be in touch to confirm your booking and discuss any specific needs. We’re here to make the process as easy and straightforward as possible!

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Proudly Serving Mildura and Surrounding Sunraysia Regions

Based in Mildura, we proudly serve surrounding areas, including Merbein, Irymple, Dareton, Red Cliffs, Buronga, Nichols Point, and Wentworth for all your solar panel, gutter, and window cleaning needs. Looking for reliable cleaning services a bit further out in Sunraysia? Give us a call, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your location and requirements.

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