How To Clean Sash Windows in 8 Simple Steps
One of the ways to keep your sash windows long-lasting is through regular cleaning. Actually, cleaning your glass and timber surfaces often will also help keep your sash windows functioning smoothly and will aid in letting light in and keeping draughts out. Read on to learn the step-by-step process of cleaning them, the materials needed, and the safety precautions to remember.
What you’ll see here:
- Clean your sash windows regularly to keep them looking good and working well.
- Stay safe when cleaning windows, especially if they’re high up. Use the right tools and consider getting help if needed.
- Gather the right cleaning materials like glass cleaner and clothes.
- Remove curtains, use microfiber cloths to prevent streaks, avoid harsh chemicals, and wipe in a figure-of-eight motion for best results.
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Cleaning your windows is easy, but have you ever experienced those stubborn stained marks on them? Don’t worry, you can solve this issue with some helpful tips and steps.
Right Time to Clean Your Sash Windows?
You can clean your sash windows anytime especially when they really look dirty. However, it is highly recommended to always try to clean your windows on a cloudy rather than sunny day. This is because the sun tends to dry the window too quickly, which can leave unsightly water streaks.
Safety Precautions to Remember
Before proceeding with the cleaning steps, it’s essential to emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety when cleaning windows.
While it’s entirely possible to clean the upper windows yourself, it’s vital to avoid using stools or chairs for elevation. Such practices pose significant risks of injury due to potential falls. Instead, use a sturdy and stable ladder to avoid such incidents. Also, it’s a good idea to have someone hold the bottom of the ladder while you climb up for extra safety.
When dealing with windows set within glass or heavy timber structures, exercising caution is important. Never attempt to clean elevated windows without the necessary equipment, or while not maintaining firm footing on the ground. Safety should always be a top priority.
Cleaning Materials Needed
Let’s get started by gathering the cleaning materials you’ll need:
- Brush or vacuum
- Microfibre or soft cloth
- Squeegee or dry cloth
- Glass cleaning spray
- A mix of dishwashing liquid and water
Now, when it comes to cleaning the inside of sash windows, stick to the glass cleaner and microfibre cloth. But go for dishwashing liquid and water mixed with a sponge for those outside sash windows. It will help cut through the dirt and grime effectively.
Another tip: If you’re into eco-friendly options, you can whip up a natural cleaning spray using diluted vinegar and lemon juice. It’s good for the planet and gets the job done too!
Steps in Cleaning Sash Windows
Now that you have your materials ready, you can clean sash windows. There are each own steps for different types of sash windows:
Wooden Sash Windows
- Start by brushing off or vacuuming any dirt buildup.
- For the inside, grab your trusty glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
- Head outside with a soft cloth or sponge and a mild soapy water solution for the exterior.
- Pull down both sashes completely and focus on cleaning the top half of the outer sash.
- Next, adjust the inner sash to halfway up and give the top half a good clean.
- Push both sashes up fully and tackle the lower half of the outer sash.
- Now, bring the inner sash halfway down and clean its bottom half.
- Lastly, use a damp, soapy cloth to wipe down the frames, ensuring they’re dried afterward to remove any excess water.
Cleaning your original timber sash windows regularly helps you inspect them closely and fix common problems like rotting wood or frayed cords. If your old timber sash windows are too damaged to fix, consider replacing them with uPVC sash windows.
uPVC Sash Windows
- Remove any built-up dirt with a brush or vacuum, e.g. hinges, handles, etc.
- Thoroughly clean the inside with a glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth
- Tilt the sashes inwards and clean the exterior glass with a soft cloth/sponge and a mild solution of soapy water
- Gently wipe over the window frames and hardware with soapy water and a damp cloth, paying close attention to areas of the window that are susceptible to grime build-up.
Tips for Cleaning Sash Windows
But wait, there’s more you can do to take your cleaning to the next level:
- Before you start cleaning your windows, take down all curtains and blinds. This makes it way easier to access the windows, handles, and frames. Plus, it lets you get into all those nooks and crannies, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Use a microfiber cloth for streak-free windows. You should avoid paper towels or tissue paper to prevent debris or lint on the glass.
- Another way to avoid streaks and smears on your window glasses is to wipe in a figure-of-eight motion. This ensures seamless cleaning, preventing smears that can occur with long, vertical wipes.
Based on The Housekeeper’s Handbook of Cleaning, avoid harsh cleaners like bleach or spirits for glass and timber frames as they can cause permanent damage. It is suggested that you stick to gentle cleaning solutions to preserve your windows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How do I make my old sash windows better?
You can consider repairs or upgrading your sash windows to double glazing for improved comfort and energy efficiency.
Should I pay someone to clean my sash windows?
It really comes down to what matters most to you whether it’s your time or other factors like cost. For instance, if you’re busy or have windows that are hard to access, it might be worth considering.
How do you clean windows that are too high to reach?
To clean windows on upper floors, you’ll need the right tools, such as an extendable brush or squeegee, to reach them.
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