There are no shortcuts to window cleaning and maintenance, but there are things that you can do to make it easier. Here are some tidbits to help you with this task.
Buy separate interior and exterior scrubbers for your windows. Window exteriors are typically dirtier from outdoor pollutants like soot, pollen and bird droppings. Using separate scrubbers keep such pollutants away from the interiors. Do the same for detailing rags, wipers and buckets, especially if it’s been a long time since the windows were last cleaned.
There are various window cleaning products on the market, some of which are fairly effective. However, you may be surprised to know that you already have good cleaning products in your home, which can achieve the same efficacy at a fraction of the cost.
Most low-maintenance windows and sliding French doors can be cleaned using liquid dish detergent mixed with water. It leaves the window surface slippery enough to clean with a rubber squeegee. Stubborn stains can be removed by dipping a piece of cloth in a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water, leaving the cloth on the stain for several minutes and then rinsing with water.
Use new squeegee blades whenever you clean your windows. Old rubber blades tend to become stiff and crack, which can lodge small particles inside them that can scratch the glass surface. New blades also prevent streaks.
When buying new rubber blades, make sure you buy the size you’re comfortable with. Buy them too narrow, and you’ll use up too much time to clean the windows. Buy them too wide, and you may not have enough coverage per sweep. A 12- to 14-inch blade is usually the one that ensures the best grip and control. Also, avoid using razor blades – typically used for taking off decals – when removing stubborn dirt as it could damage any coatings your windows might have.
Renewal by Andersen® Midwest is your leading provider of replacement French patio doors and low-maintenance replacement windows. Give us a call at (866) 609-5033, or fill out our contact form.
