How to Properly Clean Your Windows
Now that the weather is getting warmer in Lancaster County and summer is just around the corner, most people are opening their windows to get some fresh air. But, when you go to open those windows, you might notice how grimy and dirty they have become, especially if you left screens in them over the winter.
When most people think about residential cleaning, they often skip the windows. But, if you decided to tackle this extra cleaning task, what’s the best way to clean them? Angie offers a step-by-step process to properly clean your windows that includes the tools you’ll need, cleaning techniques, and cleaning solution options.
Tools
Before your start to clean your windows, you will need to pull together the tools you need to do the job. Angie suggests the following items.
- Spray Bottle or bucket
- Mild dish soap or window cleaner
- Microfiber cloths or lint-free towels
- Sponge with a scrubbie
- Brush
- Dry cloth or vaccum
- Optional: Vinegar
- Optional: Rubbing Alcohol
- Optional: Squeegee.
Cleaning Techniques
Pick the Right Time
Before your get started, you want to be sure it’s the right time of day to clean your windows. It’s a good idea to choose a time to clean when you don’t have direct sunlight coming through the windows. That’s because the heat on the glass can cause the cleaner to dry too fast, leaving streaks. As such, clean your windows during the early morning or in the evening.
Remove Dirt & Debris
Before your start cleaning your windows with a solution, it’s important to remove any dirt, debris, and/or cobwebs. To do this, remove window screens, if you have any. It’s a good idea to take them outside and wash them with a mild cleanser mixed with water and scrub them with a brush. Once finished doing this, let the screens air dry.
While the screens are drying, wipe the outside of your windows, frames, and sill with a soft brush or cloth to remove loose dirt and dust. Next, clean everything with a dry cloth or vacuum. Do the same process with blinds or shades. If you have curtains, this is also an excellent time to remove and wash them, following the care instructions.
Clean the Windows
Next, spray the inside of your windows with a generous amount of cleaner. This can be a purchased glass cleaner or a solution you make yourself (see below). Then, wash the window with a microfiber cloth or sponge. Once the windows are clean squeegee them dry or use a microfiber cloths or lint-free towel to wipe the windows from top to bottom. If you see any streaks, give your windows another wipe until the glass is clear.
Repeat these steps to clean the outside window glass too. Depending on the design of the windows, you may be able to clean both sides from inside the house. If you have removable storm windows, take them off completely for cleaning.
For any stubborn spots, you can use a mix of vinegar and water or a bit of rubbing alcohol to get your windows clean. Once everything is clean and dry, pop your screens back in, hang your curtains, and step back to marvel at the shine!
Cleaning Solution Options
When it comes to window cleaning solutions, you can purchase one or make your own. Carolyn Forte, Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab, says “you need plenty of cleaner to dissolve and suspend the dirt, so it can be completely wiped away — skimp and you’ll be seeing streaks.” Her top pick for a store bought solution is Invisible Glass Cleaner, because the aerosol mist stays where you spray it and there are fewer drips and mess.
If you want to save some money and/or use more natural products, you can create your own Do It Yourself (DIY) window cleaning solution! Here are two options, which can be combined and put into a spray bottle:
- Mix a few drops of dish soap and one drop of alcohol in warm water.
- Use 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water.
If you live in an area with hard water, consider using distilled water to make a DIY glass cleaner.
There you have it! To ensure your windows look fresh and clean for the summer season, make sure you have the proper tools, implement Angie’s cleaning techniques, and select the cleaning solution that’s right for you. Once you implement these steps into your home cleaning routine, your windows will look and stay beautiful.