How Often Should You Clean Windows in Ottawa? — 2026 Guide
How Often Should You Clean Windows in Ottawa?
The Ottawa standard: twice per year for most homes. Once in late March to mid-April, and once in September or October.
Why these specific times:
- Late March / early April: After winter road salt spray and before Ottawa's pollen season peaks in late April–May
- September / October: After summer algae and hard water deposits, before winter makes exterior cleaning impractical
These two cleans address the four distinct seasonal window-soiling patterns Ottawa's climate creates.
Ottawa's Four Window-Soiling Seasons
Winter (November–March)
Road salt spray from Ottawa's aggressively cleared streets coats lower windows on properties near roadways. Ice fog and condensation leave mineral deposits. Interior windows accumulate cooking vapour and indoor humidity condensation.
Spring (April–June)
Ottawa's pollen season is intense — late April through May deposits a visible yellow coating on every exterior surface. Clean before peak pollen (late March–April) or after it settles (mid-June).
Summer (July–August)
Hard water (12–18 gpg) left on glass by sprinklers or rain creates white mineral rings. Ottawa summer humidity combined with sun creates calcium streaks that standard wiping cannot remove.
Fall (September–October)
Leaf tannin from Ottawa's extensive maple and oak canopy stains glass where leaves land. This is the last opportunity for exterior cleaning before winter makes it impractical.
Window Cleaning Frequency by Property Type
Standard Ottawa home (2 storeys, 15–25 windows): Twice per year is sufficient.
Heritage homes in the Glebe / Sandy Hill / Almonte: Same frequency; extra care around original wood frames.
Airbnb and short-term rentals: After every 3–4 guest stays, or at minimum monthly during peak season (July–August). Guest photos show dirty windows prominently.
Commercial offices with street-facing glass: Monthly for client-impression management.
Homes near the Rideau Canal or Ottawa River: Three times per year — the water proximity accelerates mineral deposit and algae growth on glass.
Ottawa Window Cleaning Calendar
| Month | Action |
|---|---|
| March (late) | Clean before pollen season — optimal first clean |
| April (early) | Last window before pollen peaks |
| April (late) – May | Avoid — pollen season active |
| June | Clean if missed March/April slot |
| July–August | Optional mid-summer clean for high-visibility properties |
| September–October | Second annual clean — before winter |
| November–March | Exterior cleaning impractical below -5°C |
For Ottawa homes without strong preferences, late March and late September are the two optimal dates.
Book Window Cleaning in Ottawa
Clean 613 provides window cleaning across Ottawa and 19 surrounding communities. Call (613) 801-9613 to book your spring or fall clean. See window cleaning service details for pricing and scope.