How to Remove Pet & Child Prints from Windows

The Challenge

If you have kids or pets, you know the struggle: nose prints, handprints, and smudges on every glass surface at eye level (or snout level). Sometimes it feels like you just cleaned them yesterday—because you did.

The good news? You don't need harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners. With the right technique and the right towel, you can knock out those prints quickly and effectively.

Avoid Ammonia Sprays

Skip the Windex and other ammonia-based cleaners. They can leave streaks, create buildup, and aren't necessary for most cleaning tasks. In many cases, water and a good microfiber towel are all you need.

Quick Cleaning Methods

From simple smudges to stubborn stuck-on mess

1

For Light Smudges: Dry Good Rag

For fresh prints and light smudges, a dry Good Rag may be all you need.

The easiest method:

Use a clean, dry Good Rag microfiber towel
Wipe in one direction in a single sweep
Avoid circular motions—they can spread oils and create streaks
Flip to a clean section of the towel as needed

This works great for quick touch-ups between deeper cleans.

2

For Advanced Smudges: Slightly Damp Good Rag

For tougher prints and oily smudges, add a little water.

Step it up a notch:

Dampen your Good Rag with water—just slightly moist, not dripping
Wipe the smudged area in one single swipe
Follow up immediately with a dry Good Rag to buff and remove any remaining moisture
Again, use one-direction wiping for a streak-free finish

This method handles 90% of household window smudges with ease.

3

For Stubborn Smudges: Drop of Dawn + Damp Good Rag

Add a single drop of Dawn dish soap.

When water alone won't cut it:

Put a single drop of Dawn dish soap on a damp Good Rag
Gently wipe the smudged area
Follow up with a clean, damp Good Rag to remove soap residue
Finish with a dry Good Rag in one single swipe for a streak-free shine

Dawn cuts through grease and oils without leaving streaks or buildup.

4

For Stuck-On Debris: 0000 Steel Wool (Use with Caution)

0000 steel wool can help, but proceed carefully.

For stickers, paint, or other stuck-on materials:

Test first: Always test in an inconspicuous spot to check for scratching
Use only 0000 grade (the finest grade available)
Avoid on tinted windows or new low-E glass—these can scratch easily
Use with water or soapy water for lubrication
Gently rub the stuck-on debris until it releases
Wipe clean with a damp Good Rag, then dry buff

⚠️ Caution: Steel wool can scratch delicate surfaces. When in doubt, skip it or call a professional.

Why Good Rags Make All the Difference

These aren't just any cleaning towels—they're the elite household detailing towels we use professionally for windows, mirrors, chrome, and stainless steel.

These towels wipe surfaces with minimal water, leave zero streaks, produce no lint, and require no chemicals. Just slightly damp, and you're good to go.

Streak-Free

No Lint

No Chemicals

Professional Grade

Learn More About Good Rags

Or Let the Pros Handle It

We'll bring our own Good Rags and make every window sparkle—pet prints and all

Call (512) 222-3765 Get Free Quote