Window Washing Guide
§ THE TOOLS  ·  EXPANSION · 11  ·  LADDER SELECTOR

The Solvent Ladder.

Five questions, one rung. Climb the ladder of solvents starting from the mildest — hot soapy water — and escalating only as far as your residue actually requires. The first rung that works is the right rung.

Methodology cites Jan Davenport's solvent-ladder piece (Soap & Detergent Association; ACA solvent guidelines; 3M adhesive removal references).

QUESTION 1 OF 50% COMPLETE

What is actually on the glass?

pick the closest match — the chemistry of the residue decides the rung

The ladder works because different residues need different solvent chemistries. Polar contaminants (water-soluble adhesives, sugars, fingerprints) yield to alcohol and water. Non-polar contaminants (sap, tar, oils, butyl) need mineral spirits or naphtha. Cross-linked adhesives need d-limonene. Look at what's on the window and pick what fits — if multiple categories apply, pick the most stubborn one.