The changing of the seasons is a great time to give your windows some extra attention. Clean windows let in more natural light and provide clearer views of the outdoors. Follow these tips to get your windows looking their best this season.
Wash the Inside and Outside
Giving the inside and outside of your windows a good wash makes a big difference.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Glass cleaner or vinegar and water solution
- Microfiber cloths or paper towels
- Extendable duster (for outdoor upper windows)
- Spray bottle
Making a vinegar cleaning solution is easy and effective for windows. Simply mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. The vinegar helps cut through dirt and residue.
Washing the Inside
- Dust window frames and sills first to avoid streaking glass.
- Spray glass cleaner or vinegar solution onto window.
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth or scrunched up paper towel.
- Dry with a second clean microfiber cloth. This prevents streaks.
- For hard water spots, use undiluted vinegar.
Washing the Outside
- Start by hosing windows with water to loosen dirt.
- Use an extendable duster to reach upstairs windows.
- Spray cleaner and wipe with microfiber cloths as you did inside.
- Rinse and dry with a squeegee for a streak-free finish.
Deep Clean Window Tracks
Dirt and debris easily get trapped in window tracks. Give them a deep clean.
- Use a dry vac attachment or compressed air to vacuum out tracks.
- Wipe tracks with a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner.
- Cotton swabs can help reach tight corners.
This allows windows to glide smoothly when opening and closing.
Remove Window Film and Stickers
Does your window glass have old film or stickers on it? Use a glass cleaner designed for this task.
- Spray sticker and film remover onto stickers. Let sit for 1-2 minutes.
- Scrape off stickers and film with a plastic scraper.
- Wipe away any adhesive residue.
Your windows will look much cleaner and clearer.
Clean Window Blinds and Shades
Don’t forget to give window treatments a refreshing clean too.
Dusting Blinds
- Use a microfiber duster to wipe down each blind slat.
- Or wrap a microfiber cloth around a handheld vacuum hose. Vacuum between slats.
Washing Blinds
- Take blinds down and soak them in warm water and mild detergent.
- Use a soft brush to scrub blinds clean. Rinse and let air dry.
Clean blinds maximize natural light entering the room.
Condition Window Seals and Frames
Window seals and frames take a beating from weather and use. Condition them to extend their life.
- Wipe seals and frames with a cloth and silicone lubricant.
- Apply rubber conditioner to weatherstripping to prevent cracking.
- Use a Q-tip to reach narrow areas.
This keeps seals flexible and frames sliding smoothly.
With cleaner windows and treatments, your home will feel brighter and refreshed for the new season. What window cleaning tips do you rely on? Let me know in the comments below!
