Cleaning the windows on your home, on at least a seasonal or semi-annual schedule, is an important part of home ownership that will help your windows last longer and keep your home looking its best. The best time to clean windows is in the spring when the elements are more likely to be in your favor, though this can vary based on where you live.
Washing your windows requires a microfiber cloth or towel to wipe away excess dust, a window cleaning solution—either a streak-free DIY or professional glass cleaner will do the trick—a squeegee, sponge mop or scrubber that can wipe up excess cleaner and either a tall mop pole or a ladder for higher, hard-to-reach spots. Whether you do it yourself or hire professional window cleaners, here’s what you need to know to keep your windows sparkling no matter which type of window.
Best Time for Cleaning Windows
The best time to schedule window cleanings depends on where you live and how susceptible your windows are to getting dirty. Generally, window cleaning should be done at minimum once or twice per year, plus on an as-needed basis, including at least one cleaning of any window screens.
Window cleaning professionals suggest avoiding window washing on very sunny days or at a time when a window is in direct sunlight, as the heat may cause the glass to dry too quickly and cause smears. Cleaning windows on a cloudy day with no inclement weather is recommended for the cleanest finish, and it gives the lather more time to dry. Optimal temperatures range from the mid-60s to 70s Fahrenheit, though it is absolutely possible to successfully clean windows when those conditions are not expected.
If your windows are exposed to lots of pollen, air pollution, debris or dust, you may need to increase the frequency of your window cleaning to prevent grime build-up and glass deterioration. Precipitation can cause spots on dirty windows, so if cleaning your windows during a rainy season, rest assured that evaporated raindrops do not leave marks and will only help your home look like it has been power washed.
While spring cleaning may earn its reputation for being a generally favorable time to be outdoors, you can clean your windows year-round with the right tools. Seasons with mild weather, such as spring or autumn, are better than window cleaning in the heat and direct sunlight of summer or the cold in winter, which could be hard on hands and icy windows.
TIP: If washing your windows in winter, use antifreeze with the window cleaning solution and use cold water, not hot water, to prevent a drastic change in temperature that could shatter your windows. Spray only lukewarm water to defrost frozen windows and exercise extra caution if using a ladder.
Tips for Keeping Windows Clean
Dirty windows can detract from the value and appeal of your home from the curb to the interior atmosphere. Keeping your windows in pristine condition can protect the glass from elemental damage and preserve its clarity over the years.
- Clean windows as regularly as you can, including the edges and crannies where dust could settle, which helps prevent accumulation and build-up over time. Window screens can protect your windows by preventing dirt, pests and pollen from transferring residue onto the glass. Maintaining clean window screens will especially keep your exterior windows from looking splotchy after it rains.
- A two-step window washing process will help keep your windows spotless for longer. Start by wiping excess dust and debris off of your window with a dry cloth or towel, then move to your wet window cleaner. A professional glass cleaning solution may also include bonuses such as rain repellent to help stretch the time needed between washes. After spraying the window cleaner, wipe it dry with a squeegee, mop or towel to prevent excess dripping from drying on the glass.
- Regularly maintaining clean windows can improve the efficiency of your home’s energy consumption and lower your bills, and it can help support the environment in more ways than one. Most birds and pests cannot see regular window screens and therefore are susceptible to window collisions. You can keep both your windows and wildlife safer by adding humane screens and guards to your windows, including UV-reflecting glass tapes, decals or liquid treatments. These products are economical, humane and will not drastically reduce your window clarity from the inside looking out, all while decreasing the likelihood of accidental window breakage.
How To Find The Right Window Cleaning Professional
If cleaning your home’s windows sounds like a daunting or tedious task, there are advantages to hiring professional window washers, which could ultimately save you time, money and risk of injury.
Professional window cleaners are skilled and experienced, and can therefore clean your home’s windows in much less time than it would take a non-professional to do the task. These experts have all the tools and powerful cleaning solutions to make your windows sparkle, including harsh and dangerous chemicals that they are trained to handle. If you prefer environmentally-friendly and green cleaning options, you can specifically search for a company that offers these.
A cleaning company should come prepared with all the safety equipment and insurance to prevent possible injury when climbing on ladders or cleaning in precarious positions. The team should know how to navigate window washing efficiently while keeping themselves, and your home, safe. Before hiring a company, ask about how they ensure employee safety on the job, as well as their insurance policy.
When cleaning your windows inside the house, don’t overlook your blinds. Since these are places where dust tends to accumulate and transfer to windows, you may want to ask your cleaning company if they will also clean your blinds. If they do not do this type of work, you’ll want to make sure your blinds are clean before cleaning the windows.
Be sure to check out reviews of window cleaning companies and ask for references before booking. Ask about scheduling your appointment at a time when the weather is most favorable, and make sure they have the right tools to care for the condition and placement of your windows. If you have household items in the way of windows, such as furniture or breakables, it is a good idea to inquire about any extra fees that the company might charge to move those items out of the way of cleaning, or plan to move them yourself ahead of time to prevent any accidents.
In addition to window cleaning, professional cleaners may also offer additional services, and it’s a good idea to ask about what else they offer to see about combining essential house maintenance services with cost-effective bundled pricing. These professionals should also be able to assess the condition and provide insight into any problems with your windows, including glass damage, windowpane rot, a misfitting panel or screen and more.
Taken from https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/best-time-to-clean-windows/