Problem: Dingy windows
Stunning views at the family cottage can turn dull through windows beaten by Old Man Winter. Harsh temperatures and strong winds mean thick dust, dirt and minor scratches. Follow these easy steps for summer-ready windows.

Solution:
1 Start on the exterior. Cool, cloudy days are best for window cleaning, as the sun can dry the cleaning solution before you wipe it off, leaving streaks.

2 Dip a sponge into a bucket that contains equal parts white vinegar and hot water. Thoroughly scrub down the window pane and frame. Rinse the sponge.

3 Wet the rubber blade of a squeegee with cold water. Working from an upper corner, pull down firmly in a straight line. Wipe the blade clean with the sponge and repeat, drawing another vertical line that slightly overlaps the first. Continue moving across the window until the whole surface has been squeegeed.

4 Wipe the window frame dry with a microfibre cloth.

5 Working on the inside, lay a towel along the windowsill to avoid a mess. Using a spray bottle with the same homemade mix or your favourite storebought brand, spritz the window pane. Repeat step 3, this time using horizontal instead of vertical strokes.

6 Clean the window frame with a damp microfibre cloth.

7 For any minor scuffs, squeeze white toothpaste onto a microfibre cloth and buff them out using a circular motion. Wipe off the toothpaste and spot clean.

Photography courtesy of Ryan Brook/TC Media

Cleaning products
A sturdy squeegee with a metal frame and quality rubber edge is a must; so is a pole attachment for any out-of-reach windows. You want the widest blade possible for your windows to minimize the number of strokes necessary, reducing the amount of work and potential for streaks. A sponge with minimal traction will also reduce streaking.

Products (from left to right):

• Unger Pro 12" window squeegee, The Home Depot, $9. Tele-pole 16', The Home Depot, $30.
• QEP Sponge & Shine microfibre sponge, The Home Depot, $4.