Cleaning your windows means not only will they look good, but you'll actually save on energy costs. Studies show that cleaner windows let in more sunshine and light, and help to keep your energy bills down. Here are some tips to help make them sparkle:

1. Washing windows should be done on a cloudy day, to help prevent streaking. The sun dries the cleaning solution faster than you can clean it.

2. Newspaper really does clean windows best and it also applies a film that makes them resistant to dirt

3. Clean windows with a solution of water and vinegar (2 parts water to 1 part vinegar). If you have previously cleaned with commercial cleaners, add a 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap to the bottle for the best clean. Commercial cleaners often leave a wax type film on the windows that can't be removed with vinegar alone.

4. Use a cotton swab to get into the corners of the windows

5. When cleaning the exterior of windows, wash first with a squeegee or sponge and a bucket of water/vinegar to get the bulk of the dirt off, then wipe to a sparkling shine with newspaper