Asked on Sep 02, 2017

Is there anyway to clean between double pane windows?

Sandra Endress
by Sandra Endress

spider webs , dead bugs, fogginess are stuck inside double glass, can anyone help, -- so nasty looking. can anyone tell me how to clean cloudy glass windows?


  10 answers
  • Sharon Sharon on Sep 02, 2017

    This technique has been used in UK for years.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XystwW83OO0

  • Linda Maher Linda Maher on Sep 02, 2017

    It sounds like the seal has broken and would need repair if possible

  • K K on Sep 02, 2017

    I’m wondering if these are double pane or storm windows. When the seals broke on out 30-year-old windows there was condensation between the glass, no bugs or webs. Just sayin’... are you sure these aren’t (old-fashioned) storm windows and not double-pane?

    Broken (double-pane) seals require window replacement.

    Storm windows - remove, inspect, clean, repair, store or replace depending on the season.

    Double hung windows (far out possibility)? Tip out the lower pane and clean.

  • Cindy Cindy on Sep 02, 2017

    If there is dirt or webs between the two pieces of glass, then the seal has been broken and the vapor has been compromised. They are no longer energy efficient. There is not supposed to be any way bugs or dirt could get between the glass. I'm sorry to say that there is no way to clean between the glass.

  • Chubby58 Chubby58 on Sep 02, 2017

    I have checked also, because I have cloudy spots on my french doors. The only way is to have someone come out and replace the window part of the door because the seal has been broken and the gas they fill them with has leaked out. Can't afford that right now, so I'll just have to live with it for a while longer.

  • William William on Sep 02, 2017

    The seal has been compromised and the glass panels will need to be replaced not the whole window. I Know Ace Hardware sells double pane glass panels. They also install. I replaced many double glass panels when I was a maintenance supervisor at a nursing home.

  • Amy P, Hometalk Editor Amy P, Hometalk Editor on Nov 20, 2023

    Hometalk has a great guide on this, but yes, for double-paned windows, then it's to do with the seal: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/clean/windows/how-to-clean-cloudy-glass-windows-44456953

  • Betsy Betsy on Nov 20, 2023

    Hi Sandra: How old are the windows? And, more importantly, were they put in by a company and have some sort of warranty on them? It wouldn't hurt to look into this. If the seal is compromised, you may have to have the window replaced :(

  • Mogie Mogie on Nov 21, 2023

    1. Gather the Necessary Supplies

    Before you begin cleaning, gather the following supplies:

    • Microfibre cloth or lint-free cloth
    • Distilled water or a mild glass cleaner
    • Spray bottle
    • A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
    • Soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
    • Step ladder or sturdy platform (if needed)

    2. Start with the Exterior

    Cleaning the outside of your double-glazed windows will provide a clearer view through the glass. Begin by using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any loose dirt, dust, or cobwebs from the window frames and sills.

    Then, using a hose or bucket of soapy water, wash the exterior surface of the windows with a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a lint-free cloth.

    3. Open the Windows

    To access the interior of your double pane windows, you’ll need to drill holes. Drilling holes requires some level of DIY skills, so if you aren’t confident with using a drill, then avoid drilling holes and think about calling a professional in.

    Drilling a few holes into the window will allow you to tuck a small desiccate packet into the window to absorb any moisture that has been caught between the two panes. The holes also allow you to rinse out the window with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl), to remove any dirt.

    If you have left your double pane windows for a while and there is a lot of dirt build-up, you may need to get crafty and create a device to thread through the holes and use it to wipe out. For example, some wool material on a drain snake is always a fab handmade cleaning device!

    If you are being cautious and don’t want to drill a hole in your windows, then you can use a method without drilling holes. However, this will only work if moisture is your only issue. If you have dirt trapped inside double pane windows then the only option is to either drill or hire a professional!

    4. Vacuum the Interior

    Using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, carefully vacuum the interior surface of the windows to remove any loose dust or debris. Pay close attention to the corners, edges, and grooves where dirt tends to accumulate. This step will help minimise the amount of dirt you need to clean manually.

    5. Spray the Glass Cleaner

    If distilled water is not sufficient, prepare a gentle glass cleaner by diluting it with distilled water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and lightly mist it onto the interior surface of the glass. Avoid spraying directly onto the frame or hardware to prevent damage.

    6. Wipe the Glass

    Take your microfibre cloth or lint-free cloth and start wiping the glass in a circular motion or from top to bottom. Pay attention to any stubborn smudges or stains, gently applying more pressure if needed. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to clean around the edges and corners of the glass. Make sure the windows are clean and dry.