Clean windows can create a feeling of freshness in your home or business. However, windows must be cleaned regularly to ensure that they are sanitary and look their best.
Window and screen cleaning is a quick job that requires very little equipment. First, remove the screens, and spray with a garden hose (nozzle set to low pressure) to rinse. More by clicking here.
Window and Door Frames
Window frames and doors are an integral part of the exterior of a home. They need regular cleaning to remove dust, dirt, and other debris. This can help maintain a clean and inviting-looking exterior.
Using a duster, soft cloth, or vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment, remove larger particles from the frame and sill. Then, use a mild liquid detergent with warm water to clean the frame and windows. Be sure to rinse and wipe dry with a clean cloth to prevent water marks.
Avoid harsh cleaners, abrasive scrubbers, liquid grease removers, nail polish removers or furniture polish on vinyl surfaces, as these may damage the surface or leave behind marks. Also, do not wash the frames with high-pressure spray as this could crack or destroy the caulking around the frame.
For oxidized spots, pour equal parts of white vinegar and water into a bucket and apply to the trouble spot with a cloth or brush. This should break down the mineral build-up and eliminate stains.
Glass
Glass is the most common element of your windows and doors. It’s also found in your mirrors, coffee tables, and other decorative glass throughout the house. No matter where it is, a little care can keep your glass surfaces looking spik and span!
When cleaning glass, it’s important to use a lint-free cloth. Lint is produced when the wrong type of fabric is used to wipe glass. Scrunched-up newspaper is one common choice, but it can leave lint specks on your glass. Other lint-producing fabrics to avoid are clothes and tissues.
Spraying cleaner directly onto your window or glass without prepping it first is a surefire way to get streaks. Make sure to pre-clean the surface by wiping it down with a cloth, then spray the product on. Wipe quickly to eliminate streaking. A long-handled squeegee is a great tool for cleaning glass. It’s easy to work on large surfaces and eliminates the need for re-wiping, which causes streaks.
Screens
Window screens allow refreshing breezes to fill homes while keeping insects out and improving indoor air quality. However these thin sheets of mesh can become clogged with dirt and debris reducing their effectiveness. A regular cleaning routine helps extend the lifespan of these handy household accessories.
Dusting screens is an easy and effective way to remove loose build-up without detaching them. A lint roller does the trick nicely, and Apartment Therapy suggests using one with a small brush attachment for those hard-to-reach areas.
If your screens are very dirty, you can use a garden hose with a light pressure setting to rinse them. Just be sure to lean the screen against something to avoid bending it out of shape. If you need to scrub them, a Magic Eraser with extra-strength foam works well and is safe for the screens. Just be sure to use a clean rag and rinse often from your bucket of soapy water.
Insects
When cleaning your windows, use a soft towel or squeegee to avoid scratching the glass. When spraying cleaners, start at the top and work toward the bottom to prevent drips on non-glass surfaces or edges. Use a lint-free cloth rather than paper towels, which can leave behind a lot of lint.
Insect residue on windshields can be harder to clean than dust or grime. This is because dead bugs have complex chemistry inside them, resulting in sticky slime that dries hard on the glass when it hits the sun.
Vinegar can break down the bug slime and make it easier to wipe off. You can also try a brillo pad or firm sponge intended for bug removal. A Brillo pad works well, but it must be kept wet or lubricated with a detailing spray so it won’t damage the windshield’s surface. You can also try using a standard glass cleaner, which will usually remove the bug remains without damaging the window. Browse the next article.
