Cleaning hung windows at home is much easier than most people think. Most modern double hung windows tilt inside so you can clean both sides of the glass while staying inside your house. If you use the way to do it you can get a great shine without ever needing a ladder.
Whether you are cleaning your windows for spring or just trying to get rid of dirt and fingerprints following these steps will help you protect the glass, the vinyl frame and the window hardware.
Gather Your Window Cleaning Supplies
Before you start make sure you have everything you need close by.
You will need:
• Microfiber cloths
• A soft sponge
• A bucket of water
• A good window cleaning solution
• A dry cloth that does not leave lint
• A small vacuum or a soft brush for the window tracks
Please do not use scratchy cleaners, steel wool or anything sharp. These can scratch your glass. Ruin the vinyl finish.
Step 1: Unlock and Tilt the Bottom Window Sash
First unlock the window all the way.
Slide the sash up about three inches.
Look for the two tilt latches at the corners of the sash. Press or slide both latches toward the middle at the time.
While you hold the latches pull the top of the sash toward you gently. The sash will tilt inside until it stays in place.
Do not force the window. If the window does not tilt easily make sure both tilt latches are moved all the way.
Step 2: Clean the Bottom Sash
Spray your window cleaner onto the glass.
Use a microfiber cloth or a soft sponge to wipe the surface.
Always work from the top down. This keeps water from running over the parts you just cleaned.
Dry the glass with a lint-free cloth to get rid of any extra moisture.
Take a second to wipe the window frame and the corners too. Dust and dirt love to hide around the edges.
Step 3: Lower and Tilt the Top Sash
If you need to push the sash back into its spot.
Move the sash down until it sits near the middle of the window opening.
Find the tilt latches on the sash.
Press both latches inward. Carefully pull the sash toward you until it tilts inside.
Now you can reach the part of the upper sash without even leaving your home.
Step 4: Clean Both Sides of the Upper Sash
Clean the part first.
Then wipe the glass using that same top-to-bottom way.
If you see a spot that will not come off let the window cleaner sit on it for a few seconds before you wipe.
Do not press hard. A soft cloth and a good cleaner are usually all you need to get rid of dirt, pollen and fingerprints.
Step 5: Clean the Window Tracks and Sills
Dirty window tracks can make it hard to open and close your windows. Before you put the sashes back make sure to clean these areas
Start by using a vacuum or a soft brush to get rid of dust leaves and small bits of junk.
Next wipe the window tracks with a microfiber cloth.
If you find dirt stuck in the corners use a brush to loosen it up. Do not use metal tools because they can scratch the vinyl.
Finish by drying the window tracks with a cloth.
Step 6: Remove and Wash the Window Screen
A window will not stay clean if the screen is covered in dust.
With both sashes tilted lift the screen just a little so you can hold the top and the bottom.
Push the screen toward the side with the springs.
When the spring moves in carefully lift the screen out of the frame.
Rinse the window screen with water.
If you need to use a brush and a little mild soap to get rid of dirt and pollen.
Let the window screen dry all the way before you put it back.
Never lean on a window screen. It is made to keep bugs out not to hold your weight.
Step 7: Return Both Sashes to Their Normal Position
Put the sash back in place first.
Push it gently until you hear the tilt latches click into place.
Slide the sash all the way to the top of the frame.
Next lift the sash until it locks back into its normal spot.
Close the window all the way.
Lock both sashes to make sure they seal up tight.
If the window does not close tight unlock it and check that both sashes are sitting right before you try again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
a simple job can go wrong if you do not use the right method.
Try to avoid these mistakes:
• Cleaning windows when the sun is hitting them
• Using scratchy pads or steel wool
• Spraying too much window cleaning solution
• Forgetting to clean the window tracks and the frame
• Trying to force the sash to tilt open
• Leaving water around the window hardware
• Putting a wet window screen back in
Taking just a few extra minutes can help keep your double hung windows working well for a long time.
How Often Should You Clean Double Hung Windows?
Most people should clean their windows least twice a year.
Spring and fall are usually the times to do it.
If you live near roads you might need to clean your windows more often because of all the dust and traffic grime.
If you live near trees, pollen, leaves and sap can build up fast. If that is your case cleaning every three or four months will help keep the glass clear. The window tracks free of junk.
Need Professional Window Cleaning?
Cleaning hung windows at home is something many people can do. However not everyone has the time the tools or the confidence to clean every window safely. Big houses, second-story windows and glass that is hard to reach can make the job very tough.
If you would rather let the pros handle it Ernest Windows is here to help. We do residential and commercial window cleaning over the Chicagoland area. Our team cleans the glass the frames, the window tracks and the screens, with tools to leave your windows spotless and streak-free.
Learning how to clean hung windows at home will help keep your windows looking great and working smoothly. If you follow the steps and use the right tools you can safely clean both sides of the glass without taking the window out or climbing a ladder.
For windows that’re hard to reach or if you need professional help Ernest Windows is just a phone call away. Our team is ready to help you have brighter windows all year long.
