Coming into the new year, we hear people talk of personal goals and resolutions, so why not think about your windows? The new year always comes with loads of promises, hope, and optimism. It’s that time of the year when you find people figuring out new year’s resolutions to sleep less, quit drinking, exercise more, stop smoking, pursue their vision, develop home goals, and so much more. The new year provides an opportunity to start fresh; many people resolve to eat better, exercise or start other good habits to improve their lives. Just like your body, your windows deserves regular maintenance and the occasional upgrade.
How to clean your windows right in the new year
Window washing is one of those chores that linger near the bottom of many homeowner’s to-do lists. However, many of us who finally get around to it will attest that clean windows make a huge difference in everything! Besides, windows are one of the most significant features of any home. Not only do they let in air and light, but they protect us from harsh weather conditions, dust, and dirt. Although keeping windows clean can be a very frustrating chore, with the right tools, window washing can be quick and easy. Besides, the first step to a stress-free window cleaning is choosing the right time of day.
When the weather blows a friendly wind, opening the windows to allow fresh air into your house helps to remove stale air from the building. The wind can also bring in the dust and grime, which can stain your window screens. Besides, whether you want clean screens for your family’s pleasure or for a potential customer, clean window screens allow even more light and fresh air to pass through. Here are the necessary tools for cleaning your windows to get a sparkling touch:
- A Large dry brush or broom handle for removing cobwebs and dust
- A bucket
- A sponge
- A squeegee
- Window cleaning solutions or vinegar
- Brown paper or newspaper
- Chamois or microfiber cloth
- Dry lint-free cloth or drying pad
1. Clean the outside from indoors
For most modern houses, there’s no need to climb the ladder to clean both sides of your windows. Instead, they can be tilted inward to allow for easy outdoor cleaning. However, for casement windows, open the window until it is fully extended between the frame and sash. Familiarize yourself with your window’s abilities, and if it does not open inward, consider installing new easy-to-clean replacement windows.
2. Remove any built up dust
Start by tying back or removing any curtains or blinds. Use a dustpan brush or broom handle to clean the window corners and window sill to remove any laying dust.
3. Start by cleaning your window with a sponge
Cleaning your window with warm soapy water works well, but remember the fewer suds the better. Be careful when using strong window cleaning liquids so they do not destroy surrounding paintwork.
4. Clean and protect your sills
Before you start cleaning your windows, take a minute to brush or vacuum your window sills, as these areas can build up dust and dirt. After you finish cleaning it, cover it with a towel to protect them from any window drips.
5. Clean off the excess water
With a clean squeegee, beginning from the top of the window, work your way down in a mirror-S pattern for best performance. Frequent cleaning of the squeegee blade clean with an old cloth will avoid transferring the dirt around.
6. Wipe off excess water
Use the towel to wipe up excess water along the base of the window. Then place your hands into a dry spot on a separate lint-free towel and move it around the edge of the window to remove any remaining suds. Wipe off any streaks using a clean area of the lint-free towel. Change towels when you cannot find any clean spaces.
7. Wash windows on a cloudy day
Although direct sunlight makes it easier to see the dirt, it also dries the windows almost instantly, leaving streaks on the glass. Make sure you choose a cloudy day for your cleaning session (but if you are doing the outside, beware of rain!).
8. Wash your windows at least twice a year
This will make an amazing difference to your whole room by making it clearer and brighter. Besides, you will be surprised at how dirty your windows are.
9. Wash with warm water
Warm water is the best for removing oil stains or any sticky materials from your window grilles. This is very useful especially when cleaning your kitchen window pane and window grilles. Soak a cotton cloth in hot water and wipe the window grills with it.
10. Use a Sock glove
Try to wear a cotton glove instead of using a cloth to wipe your window grilles. This will make your job easier than you think. It is useful especially when there is less dust or dirt on your window grilles.
11. Avoid Abrasives
Do not use any form of abrasives to clean your window grilles or remove sticky materials, because they will scratch your windows and will spoil the whole look. Instead, try to find out the nature of the stain and use any counteracting materials.
12. Dirty or greasy windows?
Using a water and vinegar solution for cleaning your window grilles is very efficient if the grilles are not too dusty. Unlike soap or detergent, they will not leave any streaks or spots on your grilles. Use two tablespoons of household ammonia or domestic borax per gallon of wate and rinse with the vinegar solution before cleaning with a dry, lint-free cloth.
13. Buffing
Polish the clean, dry glass with a pad of crumpled newspaper. The printers’ ink will give your windows a shinning look.
Next Steps
In Conclusion, well-cleaned window grilles will project the pleasant look of your home. Moreover, a clear window pane and window grilles make your house clean. For any window questions, contact True View to speak with experts.
A note from Ron & Deb: