Clean windows and screens can instantly improve the appearance of your home both inside and out. Plus, you’ll benefit from more light, better air quality, and enhanced views. Knowing where to start can be a challenge, but this step-by step guide on how to clean windows and screens makes the process easier.
Best Time of Year to Clean Windows and Screens
You should clean windows and screens at least twice each year. Spring cleaning removes any buildup of pollen, mold, and grime, while fall cleaning maximizes sunlight for the darker days ahead.
How to Clean Window Screens
Clean your screens before cleaning windows to prevent re-dirtying the glass.
1. Collect Cleaning Supplies
To clean your window screens, you’ll need:
- Bucket
- Rubber gloves
- Scrubbing brush
- Cleaning solution
- Vacuum cleaner
You can make your own cleaning solution by mixing half a gallon of water with a quarter cup of dishwashing detergent or vinegar.
2. Remove Window Screens
Most window screens are easy to remove by unlatching them and carefully popping them out. Lay the screens outside on a tarpaulin or clean paving.
Tip: You can clean your screens without removing them, too. Vacuum, use a spray bottle to lightly cover the screens with cleaning solution, and wipe with a clean cloth.
3. Inspect
Inspect your screens for wear and tear. If there’s damage, consider whether to patch up small holes or replace the entire screen.
4. Vacuum
Remove loose dirt and debris with a quick vacuum, ideally using the brush attachment.
Tip: If debris is minimal, you can run a lint roller over your window screens instead.
5. Clean
Hose down your window screens using gentle water pressure to remove further debris.
Wearing rubber gloves, scrub the screens using your brush and cleaning solution. Use enough pressure to remove dirt without damaging the screens.
Rinse with a hose to remove all dirt and cleaning product, and stand your screens outside to dry.
How to Clean Windows
Clean inside your windows first. If you can’t safely or comfortably reach the upper windows, consider hiring a professional window cleaner for the outside.
6. Gather Cleaning Supplies
To clean your windows inside and out, you’ll need:
- Bucket
- Rubber gloves
- Soft cleaning cloths
- Squeegee
- Sponge
- Cleaning solution
- Glass spray
- Old towels
- Handheld vacuum cleaner
You can either make your own cleaning solution using common ingredients, such as vinegar, dishwashing soap, or rubbing alcohol mixed with water, or use a store-bought cleaner.
Although not necessary, also using glass spray can enhance your windows’ sparkle.
7. Clean Inside
Lay an old towel on the floor for protection against drips and clean your window sills.
Gently clean all interior glass using a sponge and cleaning product. Start cleaning from the top of the pane and work your way down the glass. Use a squeegee to remove excess water.
Tip: Wipe downward at a slight angle to prevent streaking.
8. Use Glass Spray (Optional)
Once clean, spray your windows with a glass spray and wipe using a soft clean cloth.
9. Clean Outside
Vacuum debris from around the window and wipe the window frames with a damp cloth. As with inside, wash the glass using a sponge and cleaning solution before removing excess water with a squeegee. Using a clean cloth, spot dry as needed, and wipe down the window frames.
If it’s time to upgrade your windows, contact Thompson Creek for a free estimate.