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With summer approaching and the weather improving, you will want to let some fresh air into your home by opening the windows, but you may notice streaks and dirt which have built up. Over time, grime and dirt will accumulate on windows, and there is a higher chance of this if you live by a busy road or motorway due to pollution.
This insightful step-by-step guide will allow you to effectively clean your windows and bring more light into your room. This DIY guide will allow you to have home pride without spending big on a window cleaner.
Equipment You Will Need
· Ladder
· Bucket
· Rubber/Washing up Gloves
· Microfibre cloth
· Cleaning sponge or cloth
· Bucket
· Water (Hot and Soapy)
· Window Cleaning Spray
· Duster
· Squeegee
· Spray Bottle
· Lemon
Steps to Cleaning Windows Inside and Out
When picking a day to clean your windows, you may want to do it on an overcast and cloudy day. This is because cleaning on a sunny day may leave streaks on the window due to the soapy water and solution drying up quickly on the surface because of the heat.
Step 1: Preparing Your Windows
If you choose to clean windows inside first, you will want to remove the curtains or blinds as well as any objects on the windowsill or close by, so they are not damaged during cleaning. Dust down and remove any cobwebs, starting from top to bottom and wipe dirt off the windowsill.
When cleaning windows outside, mimic the steps above. Ensure you are wearing practical footwear when using a ladder during cleaning and fix the ladder on a flat, secure surface.
Step 2: Choosing What to Clean With
Picking what to clean your windows with is important. A usual combination is a bucket of warm, soapy water (Mixture of hot water and washing-up liquid) and a non-abrasive sponge or alternatively, a cloth and window/glass cleaning solution. If you do not have window cleaner on hand, you can create a homemade solution made up of white vinegar, water, and lemon. You should wear rubber gloves whilst mixing chemicals to protect your skin. Filter all chemicals into the spray bottle and shake to mix effectively. Be sure to thoroughly clean out the spray bottle after use to make sure no chemicals are left for next use.
Step 3: Starting the Clean
The starting point of cleaning should be with the window frames, this is to prevent dirty water dripping onto the clean windowpanes. Use an S-motion when wiping down windows, again from the top to the bottom with your chosen cleaning products. Rinse out all excess solution from your sponge or cloth before applying it to the windowpane.
When cleaning uPVC window frames, spray your cleaning product onto the frame and then let them dry for around 10 minutes. Next, use a dry, clean microfibre cloth to wipe down the frames until they are dry.
Step 4: Using the Squeegee
Use a squeegee to wipe away all excess water or solution you have used. Again, using the ‘S’ pattern from top to bottom and then doing a reverse ‘S’ for the opposite side of the window. Clean away any water or solution left on the sides of the window with a dry cloth. Use a non-abrasive sponge to get rid of any difficult marks. After each squeegee stroke, wipe the squeegee on a dry, clean cloth to prevent smudges and smearing on the windowpanes.
Step 5: Finishing the Clean
Lastly, dry downwards on the windowpanes and windowsill with a clean, dry microfibre cloth. Do not use paper towels when drying, as this will leave debris behind. Remember to buff window frames to ensure a great finish to your overall window look.
Give your windows an added shine, use old newspaper to buff the glass. This will help remove any persisting streaks on the window.
By completing these steps, you will help to add more light to your home and improve your home’s curb appeal.
Top Tips for Window Cleaning
1. Ensure all tools are clean: Before using any of your tools, check they are clean and ready to use so that they do not create streaks and scratches on your window
2. Do not use ammonia-based cleaners: Using these products may cause damage to your window and cause streaks to form when cleaning.
3. Prevent inside water damage: When cleaning the inside windows, lie down towels on the windowsill to catch any excess water.
4. Safety: When using a ladder, make sure it is in full working order and showing no signs of damage. If you are cleaning windows which are in high, difficult-to-reach places, have someone assist you with the ladder to ensure safety. Wear protective gloves when handling and mixing chemicals to protect your skin.
5. Footwear: Make sure you are wearing suitable footwear when using a ladder.
Looking to Update Your Windows?
Are you thinking of changing your windows? At CS Windows, Doors and Conservatories we offer a comprehensive range of windows from uPVC, Aluminium, Timber and The Residence Collection. If you are thinking of changing your windows, or if you would like more information about the range of windows we install, call our knowledgeable team today on 07955821567 for a no obligation chat. Alternatively, fill in the contact form on our website with your query or to organise a quote.
