Have just come across this helpful thread. Even though its almost 8 months since the last posting, that doesn't matter. Everything on here is still relevant of course. Thanks everyone! Some good hints in here!

I agree it has been a while since any tips were on here but as you say Loyal, it is still relevant.
As for cleaning masking tape off windows - I did dilute water and white vinegar and it worked a treat. With a little elbow grease and a scraper the tape came off fairly easily.

Hello Threadz, nice to meet you. Yes someone just said to me the other day that the white vinegar & water worked very well for them. Yes, most things take a bit of elbow grease I find. I'm finding the microribre cloths not too bad for the inside windows as well. They probably would work well on outside windows too once the main 'gunk' was washed off first. Although I don't want to muck up my nice 'expensive' cloth, lol. Not that the outside windows get done nearly enough, boy do they seem to get dirty so very quickly too.
By the way, deepest sympathy to you Threadz on your recent sad news which I read on another thread. Blessings to you, may you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you will have.

Thanks for your kind thoughts Loyal. Memories are great and we are all having a few laughs over things that are recalled.
As for using the micorfibre cloth on outside of windows - I used to think like you but then decided to take the bull by the horns and use it - am pleased I did. It washes clean and is so easy, cheaper too when you don't need to buy any products for cleaning windows.
Good luck. Threadz