Windows that are cleaned regularly can boost the aesthetics of your home. If you’ve been spraying or rubbing away with paper towels, here are some new techniques that can make your window washing less of a hassle.

Using spray and paper towels is one of the most inefficient ways of washing windows, and the way most people do it. Something soft to wash with and a squeegee for rinsing are all you really need. A washcloth you use by hand or a thick, soft applicator like you might use to wash a car work well. Hot water with a drop or two of dishwashing liquid will cut residue on the window. Don’t work up a lot of suds like you might use when washing dishes to avoid leaving a film. Wash the window with the water and soap and then use the squeegee to remove it. It’s that simple.

For large windows like picture windows, wash the surface and the start at the top left corner. Pull the squeegee across the top to the right. Use a lint-free cloth like an old napkin to wipe the blade after each swipe. Start just below where you ended up and pull the squeegee back to the left side of the window. Continue down the window this way, and once you’re at the bottom, use the cloth to wipe any drips at the bottom and sides of the window frame.