Seattle’s unique climate plays a huge role in how quickly your windows get dirty. While the city is famous for its frequent rain showers, other factors like pollen in spring and summer, as well as the salty mist from Puget Sound, also affect the cleanliness and longevity of your windows. Rain is a double-edged sword for windows. On one hand, it naturally rinses away dust and dirt. On the other hand, because Seattle’s rainwater is relatively soft and often combined with airborne pollutants, it can leave behind stubborn mineral spots and streaks that dull the glass. These water spots can accumulate over time and even etch into the surface if not cleaned properly. Pollen , especially in late spring and early summer, coats windows with a fine yellowish dust that becomes sticky when wet. When combined with rain, pollen can turn into a grimy film that’s tough to remove and can encourage mold growth in humid conditions. Then there’s the Puget Sound mist , a subtle but persistent source of moisture and salt deposits. Salt particles carried by the mist can accelerate the buildup of grime and contribute to corrosion of window frames, especially those made of metal. This combination of moisture and salt means that Seattle’s coastal homes often require extra care to protect their windows.