A.B.E. Doors & Windows Blog

Whenever a cleaning person is being interviewed for hire in the movies they are always asked what they won't do.  Often times the answer is “No windows!”  Seeing as this task is going to be on your to-do list, we hope to provide you with some easy solutions to get those windows sparkling in no time. 

Gather your tools:

If your plan is to tackle all the windows in the house, gather up all the items you will need so they are at the ready and you are not wasting time searching for more paper towels.  We suggest the following: 

Bucket, sponges, squeegee, ladder, hose, soft cloth, newspaper or paper towels, vacuum and soft bristle brush. 

There are many window cleaning detergents on the market.  Pick one you feel has done a good job in the past or consider making one for a more green approach.  One solution that gets great raves is 2 cups of water, ¼ cup vinegar and ½ teaspoon of dish soap.  Pour that into a spray bottle and you're set.  

Ready, Set....Wash 

Window washing is best done in the early morning before it gets too hot out.  Too much heat can dry your detergent too quickly which will leave streaks.  Do a quick inspection of your windows, door frames and glass to check for wear, cracks or screen damage and make notes of anything that may need  repairs. 

 If you have windows that allow you to wash them from the inside of your home, work from top to bottom.  Do the outside of the window first and wipe horizontally, wipe the insides vertically, this way if there is still a patch of dirt or a streak you can tell which side needs extra attention.  If your windows are really grimy, consider using one sponge or cloth with some soapy water to get that initial layer of dirt off, then proceed with another cloth with your cleaning solution.  Newspaper is one method of drying that does not leave fibers behind.  Special micro-fiber cloths are also absorbent as are good ole paper towels.

If you have larger outside windows that need attention, we recommend using a bucket full of warm soapy water....2 gallons to a few tablespoons dish soap.  Adding 4 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol can help to prevent streaks, but that is optional.  If you are working on a ladder please have someone assist you to prevent falls and injury.  After scrubbing clean with your sponge, use a hose to rinse your window.  A long handled squeegee is the key to get rid of excess water and make drying a breeze.    

Use your soft bristle brush to gently loosen dirt from door and window screens, then wipe down with a wet cloth.  Don't use paper towels or newspaper on your screens as they will leave bits of paper behind.

Your vacuum will come in handy by sucking up dirt and bugs from the window sills.  

Don't neglect your garage door!  Tackle that with your bucket and soapy water and a good rinse. 

Enjoy the view. 

Make washing the windows a family activity and it won't seem like such a terrible task.  Play your favorite tunes, as the day gets a bit warmer the kids may like to get spritzed with the hose a bit.  Many hands make for a lighter load.  When the chore is done, break out some snacks and lemonade and admire your crisp clear view of the garden.  

Over 3300 children are injured each year from window falls.  As you begin to open your windows to let the fresh air of spring in, please take a few minutes to make sure your windows are safe and pose no risks for small children. To wrap up National Window Safety Week we offer these guidelines to ensure your family is safe. 

• Always supervise small children that may be playing in an area that has open windows. Perhaps consider designating a play area that is further away from open windows.
• Kids love to climb!  Keep furniture away from windows to avoid potential risks.
• Never rely on a screen to prevent a fall.  Let's keep the bugs out and your sweet children in.
• If you have double hung windows, open the top sash to allow for cool air to ventilate the room.
• Home stores offer limited opening hardware kits, that allow for fresh air, but limit opening to only a few inches to prevent falls.
• Always lock windows when not in use.
• Cords are another potential hazard to small children.  Keep cribs and furniture away from corded windows.  If a long cord is present, wrap it up in a manner that does not pose a risk.  The Window Covering Safety Council offers free retro fit cord devices.  Please visit their website to learn more and obtain a kit for your window. http://windowcoverings.org/ 

Mark your calendars to check your windows at least once a year.  A few invested minutes could prevent a serious injury.   Have a safe and happy Spring!