Spring is here and it’s time to let the sunshine in! As the weather warms up, washing the windows, screens, and doors around your home can make a huge difference in brightening things up. Here’s my guide to getting your home sparkling clean and sunny this season.
Preparing to Wash
- Gather your supplies – You’ll need a bucket or spray bottle, soft cloths or sponges, squeegee, mild detergent or window cleaner, old toothbrush or scrub brush, and a step stool or ladder.
- Check the weather – Pick a warm, sunny day without much wind so your windows can dry thoroughly. Early morning is great before it gets too hot.
- Remove screens – Take out any screens first and set aside to wash separately. Handle them gently!
- Start upper levels – It’s best to start washing the upper floor windows first, then work your way down.
Washing Windows
- Make cleaning solution – Fill your bucket with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or vinegar.
- Wet the window – Use your sponge or cloth to wet the entire window surface.
- Wash with solution – Dip your sponge in the bucket and scrub the glass with up-and-down and side-to-side motions.
- Rinse thoroughly – Use a second cloth and clean water to wipe away all soapy residue.
- Dry and polish – Use a squeegee or lint-free cloth to dry the window and polish away streaks.
- Don’t forget the edges – Run your cloth or an old toothbrush along the window sills and frames to clean built up grime.
Cleaning Screens
- Use gentle pressure – Screens are fragile. Apply light pressure as you clean them.
- Vacuum first – Use the soft brush attachment of your vacuum to pick up loose dirt.
- Scrub gently – Use a soft brush and mild detergent solution to lightly scrub both sides of each screen.
- Rinse away debris – Gently spray screens clean with your hose or in the shower. Allow to fully dry before replacing.
Getting Doors Shiny
- Sweep first – Use a broom to sweep dirt and debris off your doors. Get into the corners and crevices.
- Scrub trouble spots – Use a soft brush and detergent solution to scrub stains and sticky spots on door surfaces.
- Wash completely – Dip a sponge in your bucket and wash the door top to bottom. Don’t forget the glass!
- Rinse and dry – Wipe doors with a clean wet cloth, then dry with a towel to prevent water spots.
- Shine handles – Clean metal handles, railings, and hardware with a metal cleaner and soft cloth until they shine!
With a little elbow grease and these simple steps, you’ll have windows, screens, and doors sparkling in no time! Opening them up will let fresh air and sunshine into your home. A thorough spring cleaning really refreshes your living space after a long winter.
