A Guide on How to Clean Windows and Doors

Before we dive into how to clean windows and doors, when was the last time you cleaned your Oakville windows and doors? If you are taking time to remember this, perhaps it’s been long since you cleaned these essential home elements. This is the right time to do something and keep your windows and doors the way they were when you bought them. Remember that even with the maximum sunshine, if your windows are covered with dirt, splattered bugs, water spots and dust, you may not get the maximum amount of natural light into your home.

So, to get the maximum benefits of your doors and windows, you should make sure that your doors and windows are sparkling clean all the time by washing them regularly. In fact, cleaning your Oakville windows and doors should be at the top of your summer cleaning list. Luckily, this cleaning guide from Total Home Oakville will guide you to do it like a pro.

1. The Inside Part

Windows and doors Oakville cleaning involves cleaning both the inside and the outside for a perfect shine. Start by cleaning yours from the inside using this procedure:

  • Use a bucket/pot full of clean, cold water for the process. For faster and easy window cleaning, add several drops of liquid dish soap to form lather.
  • To protect your floor from becoming messy, place an absorbent cloth under your window to absorb spills during cleaning. The cloth should be large enough to cover the area you are cleaning.
  • Go over your window from top coming down using a sponge or a microfiber cloth. Remember to work on the frame too.
  • After you are done going through the window, use water mixed with vinegar or a commercial cleaning solution if you are not a DIYer to spray the window. Alternatively, you can make a cleaning solution using two gallons of water and a cup of ammonia. Commercial window cleaning solutions are available on Amazon and in home improvement stores.
  • Use a dry, lint-free towel or newspapers to dry your window. Z-shaped motion is preferable when drying. If you like, you can also use paper towels for drying, and they must be clean.
  • Sometimes, streaks can form after drying. When you notice them, spray the window and re-do it. It is okay to use two rounds to clean your windows, especially when they are very dirty.

Choose a cool and calm day when washing your window to prevent soapy water from drying faster on sunny and windy days.

2. Cleaning from the Outside

The outside part of your Oakville windows and doors requires more focus because it is often dirtier than the inside. Here is how to clean it:

  • Use a hose to rinse the window.
  • Add several drops of liquid dish soap in a bucket of clean, cold water.
  • Use a sponge or a microfiber cloth to go over your window surface. If it is high to reach, you can use a pole to help you reach the high points. Always start cleaning from top to bottom. Avoid adhesive materials for cleaning so you don’t form scratches on your Oakville windows and doors.
  • Use the hose to thoroughly rinse the window.
  • Spray your window with a commercial cleaner or water and vinegar mixture.
  • Dry the window using a rubber-bladed squeegee or a clean dry microfiber cloth. Wipe the window from top to bottom with your squeegee. Use a clean cloth to wipe your squeegee after every pass for better results. When using a dry cloth, it should be lint-free and you can use old newspapers too.
  • If your window has a stubborn stain, let your water-vinegar solution rest on the window for a few minutes before you start working. A soft scrubby sponge can also be handy, but not an adhesive one. Scrub gently until the stain is removed.
  • Remember to clean your window screens. A water-vinegar solution is ideal for cleaning them. Start by rinsing with clean water, then wash with the solution and rinse again thoroughly. Leave your screens to dry before replacing them on the windows.