How to Maintain and Clean Glass Surfaces Without Streaks

How to Maintain and Clean Glass Surfaces Without Streaks

Updated 16 October 2025 · Care & Maintenance by Glass Helper

1) Start with dust removal

Dry-wipe edges, frames and the glass surface to remove grit that could scratch during wet cleaning.
A soft brush or clean microfiber works best.

2) Use microfiber (two-cloth method)

Use one lightly damp microfiber cloth to clean and a second dry cloth to polish. Microfiber lifts soil
effectively, often with just water, and reduces streaks versus paper towels.

Why microfiber works: UCSF Fact Sheet.

3) Choose the right cleaner (or DIY safely)

For standard glass, use clean warm water with a mild detergent or a purpose glass cleaner.
A simple DIY option is distilled water with a small splash of white vinegar. Avoid abrasive powders.

Manufacturer guidance: Pilkington – Cleaning & Maintenance,
Vetrotech – Care & Cleaning (PDF).

4) Work top-to-bottom; don’t over-wet

Mist the cloth (not the glass), clean in vertical strokes, then buff dry with your second microfiber.
Excess liquid leaves residues and can drip into frames. A rubber squeegee is great for large panes.

5) Avoid direct sun and temperature shock

Clean on overcast days or when the glass is cool—solutions evaporate slower and won’t flash-dry into streaks.
Never throw very hot water on cold glass (or vice versa); sudden temperature change can cause thermal stress.

Guidance: Saint-Gobain Glassolutions – Maintenance & Care (PDF).

6) For construction grime: flush first

If there’s cement dust, paint specks or mortar, first hose or rinse generously with clean water and a soft applicator.
Avoid scraping with blades unless a specialist method is specified—grit can scratch toughened and annealed glass alike.

See: Pilkington – Glass Cleaning Guidelines (PDF).

7) Special care for coated or self-cleaning glass

Follow the maker’s instructions for low-E, reflective or self-cleaning products—some agents and tools are restricted.
After installation, some coatings need a short activation period and gentle first clean only.

Examples: Pilkington Activ™ FAQs,
SGG BIOCLEAN Maintenance Guide (PDF).

Quick troubleshooting

• Streaks: Switch to distilled water, use less solution, and polish with a dry microfiber.
• Lint: Avoid paper towels; wash microfibers separately (no fabric softener).
• Hard-water spots: Dampen cloth with a little vinegar, then rinse and dry thoroughly.