Washing the windows this spring increases curb appeal, improves the energy-efficiency of your home, and extends their lifespan. Dirty windows might be somewhere at the bottom of your spring home maintenance chores list. But dirt and grime reduce natural light, block heat that can warm up a room in the cooler months, and prevent the cooled air from escaping your home in the summer,. Grime left season after season causes etching or chemical corrosion and can permanently damage glass panes. Use these tips to clean your windows like a pro this spring.
General Tips for Professional Results
- Replace paper towels with microfibre cloths or lint-free rags/dish towels.
- Skip the over-the-counter glass cleaner – it can cause streaks and leave behind a residue that doesn’t completely evaporate, attracting more dust.
- Before applying water to the glass panes, wipe them down with a cloth or a soft-bristled brush – apply water first and you’ll get “mud” depending on how dirty they are , making them harder to clean.
- When cleaning exterior windows, pick an overcast day – too sunny and the cleaning solution can dry too quickly, leaving streaks.
What You’ll Need
Here is a basic list of tools and equipment you’ll need to get sparkling clean windows that look like they were done by professional window cleaners.
- Rubber blade squeegee (large surface areas)
- Sponge or soft-bristled brush (small panes)
- Microfibre cloth of lint-free rags
- Bucket
- DIY cleaning solution (warm water and a few drops of liquid dish detergent or vinigear)
- Ladder for tall windows or a house more than one storey
Cleaning Window Frames
Before washing the windows this spring, clean window frames first to remove the dust and dirt that could land back on the glass panes.
To remove dust and dirt from the tracks, corners, and edges, use a vacuum with a brush attachment, a dry microfibre cloth, or a soft-bristled brush.
Apply the appropriate cleaner and cleaning technique for the frame type:
- Vinyl – warm, soapy water and soft sponge; lightly wipe surfaces; scrubbing can dull finish
- Wood – damp cloth with mild dish soap; avoid soaking wood frames to prevent warping
- Aluminum – mix water with a few drops of vinegar to cut through oxidation and grime
Dry frames and sills with a towel.
Window Cleaning Step by Step
- Apply solution to glass with the squeegee
- Start at the top, pull straight down (in one direction only)
- Wipe squeegee blade after each pass
- Use the microfibre cloth to remove any left-behind moisture in the corners and at the edges of each pane (also described as detailing the edges)
Clean Interior Windows Too
If they haven’t been cleaned in a while, wash the windows inside your home. It will make the exterior windows sparkle even more. Use the above steps to clean your them. Interior windows typically will be easier to maintain since they are not exposed to the elements.
After Cleaning the Windows
Inspect for damage. Things to look for include:
- Peeling paint
- Gaps between the frame and the wall
- Loose panes
- Loose or worn seals
- Cracks
- Chips
- Broken or missing hardware
Replace any seals that are cracked or peeling. Fix loose panes and fill in gaps. Swap broken hardware for new replacements.
Windows should open and close easily. If they don’t or they make a noise, apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks, hinges, etc. Oil-based lubricants can attract dirt and dust
