Even when the sun is shining, you may not get the maximum amount of natural light in your home if your windows are covered in a film of dirt, dust, splattered bugs, or water spots. To fully enjoy the longer days and the lush views of the outdoors, washing windows is at the top of our spring cleaning list—and it should be on yours, too.

Fortunately, the process of cleaning windows is easy enough. Many commercial window-cleaning products are available, all of which promise to impart a “streak-free shine.” But a simple solution—one part white vinegar to two parts water—is perfect when mixed up in a spray bottle.

When cleaning your windows, aim for early in the morning or late in the day—anytime the sun isn't directly hitting them: You'll be able to see the streaks better when it's not as bright, and the heat of the sun can dry the water or cleaning solution you're using onto the window before you have the chance to wipe it off (read: streaky windows).

The most seemingly simple chores are the ones many of us get wrong. Case in point: Cleaning windows. It may look easy, but in fact, even the most experienced spring cleaner could benefit from a refresher course on how to clean windows.

Whether you choose storebought or a homemade vinegar cleaning solution, start with these tips and techniques for how to clean windows inside and out to make the job go quickly and easily. You’ll be amazed to see how much more light comes in once those layers of grime has been removed.

What You'll Need:

A large bucket or pot

Warm water

White vinegar (which, added to your tub of water, helps sanitize and cut grime)

A large sponge

A squeegee

A few rags

Several sheets of newspaper

Window cleaner like Windex or a natural homemade cleaning solution

What You'll Do:

First, use the sponge and the soapy mixture mentioned above to wash down the window frame. Work your way from top to bottom.

Next, pass the glass over with the sponge and soapy water. For normally dirty windows, you don’t need to saturate the glass. Just use enough water to clean the surface without getting it dripping wet. This only adds to your workload when it comes time to dry.

Then, use a squeegee to “wipe” the water off the glass. Start on one side of the window and work your way to the other. You should pass the squeegee from side to side and top to bottom. Be sure to dry off the squeegee in between passes with a cloth.

Finally, you’ll need to wipe up the excess moisture from the window frame and around the glass. The squeegee will remove the diluted soapy water from most of the window, but it doesn’t clear water from the edge. Dry window edges with a chamois, a cloth commonly used in the automotive industry to dry cars after washing them without leaving water spots. Alternatively, you can also use a soft microfiber towel if you don’t have a chamois.