Several months after picking out your perfect windows and installing them in your home, chances are some dirt or grime accumulated. Whether the kids left fingerprints or the dog pressed his nose against the glass, even the tidiest homes’ windows become clouded and dirty over time. Because of this, it is recommended to do a thorough clean twice a year to keep the glass looking crystal clear.
Believe it or not, there are recommended methods and techniques for this biannual cleaning. Rubbing your windows with a paper towel and window cleaner will only spread the dirt around and attract more dust. At XO Windows, we want to make sure you have all the tools you need to keep your windows sparkling.
When Should I Clean My Windows?
The best time of the year to clean your windows is in the early spring and the late fall, when the days are not too hot. The intense Arizona summer heat will cause your cleaning solution to quickly evaporate before the process is complete, leaving unappealing streaks (source).
There are three simple steps to effective window-cleaning:
1. Prep
Make sure to clear the area around your windows and cover your floors and couches to protect them from the cleaning solution, as this will be a somewhat messy job.
To clean your windows, you will need:
- A sponge
- Squeegee
- Rags
- Water and dish-washing soap
The most effective window cleaning solution is easy to make: simply mix one gallon of warm water with one drop of dish-washing soap. If your windows are particularly dirty, adding a drop or two of vinegar will help cut through dirt and grime.
2. Wash
Using a hand-held sponge and the cleaning solution, wash the edges of the window and rinse to remove dirt that may have snuck into the cracks and corners. Once you clean the border, apply the wet sponge to the rest of the window, using a squeegee to clean off the solution. Wipe the blade clean after each long stroke with a linen napkin or any other lint-free rag.
3. Dry
Clear any remaining water on the edges of the windowsill with a rag and use a dry cloth, newspaper or coffee filter to dry the window pane and remove streaks.
Cleaning the Window Tracks
Window track maintenance is important to ensure your windows continue to open and close easily over time. In some cases, a vacuum may be used to remove dirt from the tracks; however, a toothbrush can get into the small crevices for a thorough clean, resulting in easy-to-open windows.
Removing Stubborn Stains
Over time, water runoff and rain can leave mineral stains on your windows that are hard to remove. In order to clean those stubborn stains, gently clean the affected area with fine 000 steel wool after each cleaning.
Alternatively, you may use a powder cleaning product, such as Zud or Barkeepers Friend, which contains oxalic acid that is strong enough to remove stains without scratching the glass (source). Simply mix the powder into a paste and apply the mixture to the stains with a wet towel. Rinse the area before squeegeeing and repeat this process two or three times.
In order to ensure the mineral stain doesn’t return, apply a clear polymer coating such as 3-Star Barrier Glass Surface Protectant at the end of your cleaning routine.
Assess Older Windows During Your Deep-Clean
During your biannual cleaning, assess any older windows you have for cracks, mold or poor insulation. If it’s time for a replacement, contact XO Windows for professional care.
Windows with severe damage can drastically increase your energy bill and be a risk to your home’s safety. We offer the best window installation and supply in Arizona, so all you have to worry about is your spring and fall cleaning.
For a FREE estimate or for more information about our products and services, call us today at 602-455-6616—or contact us here.