How To Easily Clean Your Windows

There’s just nothing like clean windows to boost your spirits, especially in the winter.  Days are getting longer but it’s still often overcast here in Minneapolis, so getting the most sunlight in your home is very important at this time of year.  One way to do that is to replace your existing windows with fiberglass windows from Marvin.  Their thinner frames let in more light than comparable window frames of other materials in the same size opening.  But if you’re not yet ready for new windows, why not start with washing your windows?  It might amaze you the difference it could make!

Steps to Simple Window Washing

Pick a time of day when the sun isn’t shining on your windows, because the heat of the sun can cause your cleaning fluid to evaporate quickly, leaving watermarks or streaks.  Then, assemble all your tools and cleaning solution in one place.  We suggest a bucket or cleaning tote.  You will need:

• A small soft-bristle brush for cleaning out the tracks and crevices (an old toothbrush works well).
• A larger soft brush to remove dust and debris
• A couple of large sponges, natural or polyester.
• A squeegee (size depends on your glass area – if you have windows with divided light mullions, choose a smaller one; otherwise look for one that’s 12-18 inches. The larger the squeegee, the fewer passes you have to make.
• Soft, lint-free clean rags (old cloth diapers or cotton dish towels) are great for this task) – you’ll want to make sure they haven’t been laundered using fabric softener; that can leave a residue.
• Straight-edge razor blade
• Cleaning solution (either a commercial one or make your own with equal parts hot water and white vinegar)
• Rubber gloves

Start with the interior and brush loose dirt, dust, and spider webs away.  Some people prefer to use the brush attachment for their vacuum cleaner for this task.  Don’t forget the tracks and corners.  You may need to moisten your small brush to get in those crevices to loosen up the dirt.  Then use a clean, wet rag to wipe.

Lay a towel on the sill to absorb any water that might drip.  Next, dampen your sponge with your solution and wet the glass.  Follow up with the squeegee.  Starting in the top left corner (right if you are left-handed), draw straight down with good, even pressure.  Repeat across the window, overlapping your strokes.  Dip your squeegee in clean solution in between.  Then dry off the sill with a clean cloth.  Your windows should be dry, but if there are any wet spots, touch up with a dry rag.

Note:  For larger windows such as picture windows, use a back and forth motion professional window cleaners call “the snake.”  This is a horizontal movement from corner to corner, then pivot and go back the other way. 

Now repeat with the exteriors, if your windows have the tilt-in function.  We don’t recommend trying to work outside with a ladder at this time of year.

If your windows need more than a good cleaning (or if they don’t allow you to clean the exterior from inside your home), perhaps it’s time to talk to us.  We’ve got lots of options.  We have in-home consultations or private appointments at our Savage showroom.  We are THE replacement window company for Minneapolis. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.