Now that you’re staying home — and the weather is warming up — give your windows the royal treatment by deep cleaning them. Using supplies you probably already have in your pantry and storage closet, quickly make your windows look like new with simple cleaning methods. Here are three of our favorite window washing hacks.
Vinegar & Baking Soda
Before you begin, be sure to thoroughly inspect your windows for any noticeable issues. Gravina’s Windows and Siding can help you identify problems by scheduling a free in-home consultation. Once it’s safe to get started, eliminate the tedious act of scrubbing your window tracks by using a tried-and-true combo: white vinegar and baking soda. Start by sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda directly on the tracks — especially around the dirtiest areas. Adding drops of vinegar to the powder will cause it to bubble and foam while you leave the mixture to do its thing for 5 to 10 minutes. Using a cleaning toothbrush, gently pull the icky bits from the corners and dispose of the dirt with a paper towel. For a deeper clean, consider wrapping a butter knife with a cloth to scrub away grime. With the power of vinegar and baking soda, your window tracks will look like new without much work.
Dust & Lubricate
Remove even more loose dirt by giving your tracks and sills a thorough dusting. Trap dust bunnies and debris with a handheld duster — like a Swiffer. To clean your vinyl and wood window elements, almost any store-bought all-purpose cleaner will do the trick. Remember to do a spot-test on wood surfaces to avoid any harmful damage. If you like the vinegar method, mix a half-and-half combo of water and vinegar instead of baking soda — as the sills probably don’t require as much grime removal. Finish by using a conservative amount of silicone lubricant for vinyl window tracks. For wood, consider the appropriate type of wax to keep your tracks clean and functional. While caring for your windows, consider their style. You’ll achieve a more effective clean when you pay attention to their needs based on their design.
Vacuum & Steam
Now that you’re an experienced chemist who has made your own cleaning solution, opt for an even easier cleaning method: steam. Before you get started, be wary of your windows’ materials — as steam isn’t always the best option. Do not use it on finished wood and avoid reaching a temperature that could crack any glass. Should you decide to proceed with a clothes steamer, start by turning on the unit and allowing it to heat up. During that time, use the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Simply use the steam to loosen up unwanted build-up and remove it with a microfiber cloth. In a matter of minutes, your windows will be cleaner and noticeably more beautiful.
It’s so much easier to enjoy the refreshing breeze that floats through your windows when they’re squeaky-clean! Thanks to these simple and effective tips, your home’s windows will look and feel like new. Turn to Gravina’s Windows and Siding for helpful hacks when it comes to keeping your windows functional and beautiful.