How to Spring Clean Your Windows

by Jim Bernstein, Glass Doctor of Atlanta

The temperature is starting to rise and the trees are starting to bud. It’s time to draw back the curtains and let the sun in, but don’t settle for the sun filtering through grimy windows. Add window washing to your spring cleaning list this year. With these five steps from Glass Doctor of Atlanta, you won’t dread washing windows anymore.

Before you begin, you’ll need: a pencil, a bucket, soap, glass cleaner, a soft bristle brush, a water hose, and a squeegee or micro-fiber towel.

Step 1: Remove all the window screens, so you can wash them first. If you do not have screens, skip to No. 3. Tip: Label the inside of each screen frame with a pencil, so you know where each one belongs.

Step 2: Spray the screens with the water hose to loosen dirt, spider webs, dead bugs, etc. Then, use the soft bristle brush and a bucket of soapy water to scrub away grime. Finally, rinse off the screens and let air dry. Tip: Scrub gently to avoid damaging or stretching the screen.

Step 3: While the screens dry, tackle the outside windows. Using a clean, dry cloth, spray your cleaner directly on the glass and wipe the window from top to bottom. A dry cloth works best because unlike brushes, razors or steel wool, it won’t damage the glass. Tip: Don’t use newspaper to wipe the windows. The newsprint can smear on the glass, causing an even bigger mess.Step 4: Dry the windows as you go, using either a squeegee or a micro-fiber towel. If you don’t have either, any clean cloth will work. Wipe the window until all of the glass cleaner and water are gone. Tip: Old cotton t-shirts or clean coffee filters work well to remove remaining lint.

Step 5: Go inside and repeat the window washing steps on the inside glass. Then, replace the window screens according to your labels. Tip: If you wiped vertically outside, wipe horizontally inside. Then, you’ll know whether the missed spot is on the inside or outside.

Now, all you have left to do is draw back the curtains and let the sunlight stream in through your clean, streak-free windows! Get more home maintenance tips and advice from Atlanta Home Improvement.