Dirty or streaky windows are one of the most commonly overlooked issues during end-of-lease inspections. Across Australian tenancy disputes, smudged glass, dirty tracks, and dusty screens regularly contribute to bond deductions, with windows alone accounting for a significant share of cleaning-related claims raised at state tribunals.
Under Australian tenancy standards, windows must be returned spotless, including:
- Glass (inside and outside)
- Window frames and sills
- Tracks and flyscreens
If any part is missed, property managers can request a re-clean or deduct costs from your bond.
The good news is that proper window cleaning doesn’t take all day. A 2–4 hour process using the right tools and timing can help you avoid $100–$300 in bond deductions.
This guide explains how to clean rental windows properly, inside and out, using streak-free methods that work in Australia’s humid climate. For best results, clean on a cloudy day to prevent rapid drying and streaks.
Preparation Before Window Cleaning
Inspect and Assess the Windows
Start with a full inspection of every window in the property. Check:
- Glass for fingerprints, smears, and water spots
- Frames and sills for dust and mould
- Tracks for built-up dirt and debris
- Flyscreens for dust and insects
Identify hard water stains (cloudy white marks) versus fair wear and tear. Hard water stains must be treated; light ageing of glass does not.
Common window issues by room:
| Room | Typical Problems |
| Kitchen | Grease film, fingerprints |
| Bathroom | Hard water scale, soap residue |
| Living areas | Dust, smudges |
| Bedrooms | Light dirt, insect marks |
Tools and Supplies
Most supplies are available from Bunnings or Coles.
- Microfibre cloths (lint-free)
- Squeegee (medium size)
- Sponge or window scrubber
- Bucket
- White vinegar
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Baking soda
- Newspaper (for final buff)
- Extension pole (for high windows)
- Gloves and sturdy ladder
Optional professional additive:
- Small amount of ammonia for greasy windows (use carefully)
Always use gloves and ensure ladders are stable and positioned on flat ground.
Workspace Setup
- Remove flyscreens and blinds
- Vacuum window tracks and sills
- Lay drop sheets under windows
- Open windows for ventilation
- Work from top to bottom
Proper setup prevents dirt spreading and saves time later.
Step-by-Step Window Cleaning Process
Step 1: Dust and Dry Preparation
Before using any liquid, remove dry dirt.
- Vacuum or brush window frames, sills, and tracks
- Use a crevice tool for corners
- Take flyscreens outside and hose them down
- Gently scrub screens with a soft brush and mild soap
Allow screens to dry fully before reinstalling.
Step 2: Cleaning Inside Windows
Mix your cleaning solution:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 10 parts hot water
- A small drop of mild dish soap
Method:
- Dip scrubber or sponge and wring lightly
- Apply solution from top to bottom
- Use a squeegee in a reverse “S” motion
- Wipe the squeegee blade after every pass
- Dry edges and corners with a microfibre cloth
- Buff glass lightly with newspaper for a streak-free finish
This method prevents drips, streaks, and residue.
Step 3: Cleaning Outside Windows
For ground-level windows:
- Use the same vinegar solution
- Rinse lightly with low-pressure hose if needed
- Squeegee dry immediately
For upper-storey windows:
- Use an extension pole with a scrubber
- Work slowly and avoid excess water
- Dry with squeegee where accessible
Flyscreens should be:
- Fully hosed
- Brushed gently
- Left to air-dry
If windows are unsafe to reach, professional cleaners are recommended.
Step 4: Removing Tough Window Stains
Some stains need targeted treatment.
Grease and heavy grime
- Use warm water with mild soap and a small amount of ammonia
- Leave for 2 minutes, then squeegee clean
Hard water stains
- Apply vinegar directly and leave for 5 minutes
- Gently scrape with a non-scratch glass scraper
- Rinse and dry thoroughly
Insects and bird droppings
- Apply baking soda paste
- Gently scrub with sponge
- Rinse clean
Always test treatments on a small area first, especially on tinted glass.
Interesting read: How to Clean Walls for Bond Clean?
Special Techniques and Professional Tips
Cleaning by Window Type
| Window Type | Cleaning Adjustment |
| Double-hung | Tilt panels inward for access |
| Casement / Awning | Secure open, avoid hinge wetting |
| Tinted glass | Mild soap only, no ammonia |
| Frosted glass | Soft sponge, no scraping |
| Tracks & sills | Vacuum first, then vinegar scrub |
Pro Window Cleaning Tips
- Clean on cloudy days to avoid streaks
- Maintain windows twice a year to prevent build-up
- Avoid paper towels; they leave lint
- For long-term protection, consider a glass coating such as EnduroShield
- For bond cleans, inside and outside windows are mandatory unless stated otherwise in the lease
Finishing and Inspection Preparation
Once cleaning is complete:
- Rinse away any solution residue
- Dry all glass and frames fully
- Inspect windows at an angle in natural light
- Check tracks, sills, and flyscreens
Take before-and-after photos for your records.
Final inspection checklist:
- Glass is streak-free
- No residue in corners
- Tracks and sills clean
- Screens dust-free
