Spring Cleaning Time is Here: How to Deep Clean Windows
By: Architectural Visions
Spring is a time for renewal, refreshing your personal space, and tackling those challenging cleaning jobs that you save for just once a year. One of the most important items on any spring cleaning checklist is to deep clean windows throughout the house because routine surface cleanings only go so far to keep these fixtures looking great and performing well.
Key Takeaways:
- Clean windows on a cloudy day to better see dirt and grime
- Some of the most effective glass cleaners are ones of natural ingredients
- Be sure to clean the window frame and window sill in addition to the window
- Curtains can be cleaned by either vacuuming them or washing them in a washing machine
Here are some tips for how to deep clean windows to help you efficiently tackle your spring cleaning to-do list this year.
Get All the Necessary Supplies
The first step for how to deep clean windows is to get all the supplies you need ready to use. You’ll need:
- A window cleaning product and an all-purpose cleaner (either store-bought or DIY)
- Microfiber cloths
- Squeegee
- An old toothbrush
- Some cotton swabs
- Maybe a vacuum.
Since bright sunlight makes windows glare and hinders your ability to clearly see dirt and grime, pick a cloudy day to deep clean your windows.
Remove and Wash the Window Screens
Once a year, it’s a good idea to remove the screens from your windows. Soak screens in a big tub of warm, soapy water and then rinse them with clean water before letting them fully dry out in the sun.
Try a DIY Glass Cleaner
Sure, there are plenty of commercially produced glass cleaners on the supermarket shelves, but the most effective (and cost-effective) solutions are often natural ones made with ingredients you already have around the house.
To make your own homemade glass cleaner, add ¼ cup of white vinegar and a tablespoon of cornstarch to an empty spray bottle and fill to the top with warm water. Shake the mixture and spray it on the insides and outsides of glass windows before wiping with a microfiber cloth or squeegee. For any water drops left behind, take a clean cloth or paper towel to do a final wipe over the entire area.
Clean Interiors and Exteriors Based on Window Style
Although every style of window can look attractive in the right home, there’s no denying that some windows are easier to clean than others. Casement windows, for example, are a popular choice because they’re easy to clean and swing open. Sliding windows are also easy to clean and maintain because of their simple operation with no lifting required. The tilt-in feature of double hung windows makes it easy to clean the outside of your windows from the inside of your room.
But if you have another type of unique window that’s in need of a deep clean, be mindful of the fact that it might take a little extra time and scrubbing to get it truly clean.
Wipe Dirt from the Frame
Window frames are notorious for collecting dust and dirt over time, which can be unsightly and unsanitary without a deep cleaning once a year. Start by taking a dry microfiber cloth to get out the worst of the dirt. Then, spray some multi-purpose spray on areas with stubborn spots and tackle those spots with an old toothbrush. Let the cleaning product sit for a few minutes to let it really soak in before scrubbing.
Vacuum the Window Tracks
Dirt and dust in window tracks can be difficult to get out with your fingers because of how narrow these areas are. Get a crevice attachment for your vacuum to tackle this challenging job and then finish things off by running a couple cotton swabs through the tracks to pick up anything else left behind.
Clean the Window Sill
Window sills can get pretty grimy too, but they’re easy to clean with a little all-purpose cleaning spray and a cloth. To take this cleaning task one step further, grab some wood cleaner and polish away any residue or dullness to reveal the beautiful surface underneath.
How to Deep Clean Window Blinds
Dust window blinds with a microfiber cleaning cloth or long-handled feather duster as part of your spring cleaning checklist. If it’s been awhile since you’ve done this (every two weeks is best for ongoing maintenance), you might need to spray a little multi-purpose cleaner on your cloth to scrub away caked-on dirt.
Deep Cleaning for Curtains
Check the label of your curtains to see if they can be washed in a regular washing machine or need to be dry-cleaned. Washing window treatment fabrics helps prevent dirt build-up and even potential allergens from collecting in your rooms. Alternatively, you may be able to simply vacuum your curtains while they remain hanging over the windows to remove accumulated dust. While you’re at it, don’t forget to wipe down the curtain rod and any hooks that are used to hold the curtain up at the window.
Check Windows for Damage and Consider Replacements
While doing these deep clean window tasks, this is a great opportunity to inspect your windows for any damage that has occurred due to strong winter storms or early spring wind and hail damage. If your windows have cracks, chips, or other signs of wear and tear, it might be time for a replacement to maximize your home’s energy efficiency and boost its curb appeal.
If easy cleaning is a top priority, you might consider getting replacement windows that are casement or sliding style, or perhaps windows with grilles between the glass for a smooth exterior and low-maintenance design. AVI offers all of these window options and many more to make your life easier and your spring cleaning days more hassle-free. We carry the very best brands in the industry, so you can feel confident that every window you replace is made with the highest quality materials that are built to last and that clean up easily to reveal their original beauty with minimal fuss.
Contact us this spring to learn more, or visit one of our locations in Georgia, North Carolina, or Tennessee!