The best way to clean your windows will depend on the type of windows you have. Fortunately, cleaning your windows is relatively straightforward, and cleaning them regularly will help extend their life, as well as elevate the look and feel of your home.
We’re not just talking about the glazing either; this guide will tell you what you need and how to clean the glass and frames, as well as some solid tips for long-term maintenance.
What You’ll Need
What to use to clean your windows? Rather than paying for professional window cleaning, get yourself these relatively inexpensive items to ensure a top-quality clean:
- Bucket of warm water
- Mild washing up liquid/window cleaning solution
- Microfibre cloth/soft sponge
- Squeegee
- Soft brush/vacuum
- Ladder (if needed)
- White vinegar (optional)
How to Clean Windows Without Leaving Streaks
Streaks are one of the most common problems homeowners have when cleaning their windows. The most common reason streaks are left behind is because people choose to clean on warm, sunny days. This will result in the cleaning solution evaporating too quickly, leaving behind residue before you can wipe it off.
To tackle this, it’s always best to clean your windows on a cloudy day. Another way to avoid streaks is to wash the glass from top to bottom with warm, soapy water, wiping horizontally from left to right.
Next, wipe the soapy water off with your squeegee. Start at the top left corner, and either use the squeegee from left to right, working your way down, or opt for an S-pattern from top to bottom.
Some streaks may still remain, but don’t worry. Simply use a microfibre cloth to dry the window and concentrate on any stubborn stains that may still remain.
Paper towels are a cheap way to dry your windows, but it’s not recommended. This is because they can leave lint streaks behind, only adding more effort and time to your cleaning duties to remove them.
How to Clean uPVC Window Frames
Your home likely has uPVC window frames as they’re a cost-effective option and suit most types of properties. Plus, when it comes to looking after your uPVC window frames, the cleaning and maintenance they require is minimal, which makes them extremely sought after. That being said, there is still some upkeep you can do to prolong their life and keep them looking fresher for longer by following these tips below.
Remove Dirt and Debris First
Dirt and debris will naturally build up on your uPVC window frames. It’s important to remove any type of loose dirt and debris before you start cleaning, otherwise the dirt will be dragged over the frames and glazing, which will likely result in scratches.
Most of the dirt will accumulate in the corners of your windows, so concentrate on these areas first by using a soft brush or vacuum with a brush fitting. This will also help remove cobwebs and ensure both the frames and glazing are protected from scratches during the main clean.
Warm Soapy Water
The best way to clean uPVC frames is to simply wipe them with some warm soapy water, with the soap preferably being weak washing up liquid. What you want to keep in mind is that uPVC is a rather sensitive material, so there are products you should never use. You need to avoid using cream cleaners, solvents and products that are abrasive as you may end up damaging the surfaces and the glossy finish.
To get that nice polish and shine, use a clean, non-abrasive cloth such as a towel or clean rag to wipe away excess water until it has gone and you have a nice clean finish.
Home Remedies for Whitening uPVC Window Frames
Our Happy Haus Guarantee covers uPVC discolouration (for 10 years), however, if you fall outside this period, there are still some tips you can adopt to prolong its clean and white finish.
- Use a ratio of 1 cup of white vinegar to 4 cups of hot water, mix this solution and add it into a sprayer to help evenly distribute the solution.
- Spray this solution and leave for 8-10 minutes. This will soften any hard dirt, making it easier to wipe clean.
- Use a smooth, non-abrasive cloth or rag, wipe it down until the surface is dry.
The white vinegar remedy also works on your glazing too. Try a 50/50 ratio of water and white vinegar and spray the glazing and wipe with your soft sponge or squeegee for a streak-free clean. The white vinegar trick is an ideal solution if you haven’t got a specialist window cleaning solution or your washing up liquid may be too harsh for the frames.
Another quick alternative is baby wipes. We have found that baby wipes are a great, non-abrasive way to help clean and whiten uPVC window frames. You can also buy specialist uPVC cleaning products from most major retailers.
How to Clean Aluminium Window Frames
uPVC isn’t the only common type of frame material found on UK homes. Aluminium is a contemporary and durable choice, and powder-coated aluminium frames don’t corrode easily. This means it’s a really easy material to clean to good effect with minimal effort. A powder coating protects the aluminium frame from scratches and abrasions.
Much like uPVC window frames, you should avoid using abrasive sponges or cloths when it comes to scrubbing. Harsh cleaning products should also be avoided. Anything containing bleach or other strong chemicals should be used very sparingly or, ideally, not at all.
- Start by removing loose debris and dust with a soft brush or your vacuum.
- Wipe the frames with a soft cloth and a mild solution of dish soap and warm water.
- Alternatively, you can still use the white vinegar and water solution, but make sure it’s heavily diluted and rinsed off quickly to protect the powder-coated finish. The diluted mix will also help with stubborn and hard-to-clean areas.
- Rinse the frames with water and wipe dry with a cloth to avoid water spots or streaks.
Regular light cleaning will ensure your aluminium window frames are maintained to a high standard anyway, so you shouldn’t feel the need to use a deep-cleaning product. A household detergent and warm water wiped across the frames should do the job without any issues. What’s more, aluminium frames are usually very narrow to ensure maximum natural light, so cleaning the frames won’t take long in most cases
Window Maintenance Tips
All it takes is around two thorough cleans per year to keep your windows looking their best and durable. Here are our top maintenance tips for maintaining your windows:
- Clear drainage holes: Remove dirt and debris from drainage channels to help water flow away properly and prevent build-up.
- Wipe seals clean: Gently clean window seals to remove dust and dirt and help keep them in good condition.
- Lubricate hinges and locks: Apply a suitable lubricant occasionally to keep hinges, locks and other moving parts operating smoothly.
- Check handles: Make sure handles feel secure and operate correctly, tightening or addressing any loose fittings where needed.
- Spot early signs of wear: Look out for cracks, stiffness, gaps or damaged components so minor issues can be dealt with before they worsen
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While cleaning your windows is a straightforward endeavour, many people still make common mistakes, such as using the wrong types of cloths and cleaning solutions.
Using a sponge will help spread the cleaning solution on the windows more evenly, but never use a sponge with a scouring pad as this will most likely scratch the glazing and frames.
To keep your windows in good condition, avoid:
- Abrasive sponges: Avoid scouring pads or rough sponges, as these can scratch the uPVC and dull its finish, as well as damage the powder-coated finish on aluminium frames.
- Cream cleaners: Many cream cleaners are abrasive and may leave fine scratches or affect the appearance of the frame.
- Bleach: Avoid using bleach on uPVC, as strong chemicals can cause discolouration or damage the surface over time.
- Solvents: Products containing solvents, including nail polish remover, can damage or soften the uPVC surface.
- Pressure washers: High-pressure water can damage seals or force water into areas it would not normally reach.
- Cleaning in direct sunlight: Strong sunlight can cause cleaning products and water to dry too quickly, leaving streaks or residue behind.
Keep Your Windows Looking Their Best
The best way to clean your windows is with soft cloths or a squeegee, mild washing up liquid solutions and warm water, or an alternative white vinegar and water mix. Always remove dust and debris first to avoid scratching the glazing and frames, and always dry your windows after wiping them down to avoid streaks and water marks.
It doesn’t take much, but cleaning your windows is very important to ensure large build-ups of grime and dirt don’t accumulate, you get maximum light shining through, they continue to look their best and the overall lifespan of the windows is extended.
If you’re interested in replacing your windows for brand new ones that are easy to maintain and clean, plus come with a 10 year warranty, get in touch with Haus Installations to discuss your needs and receive a quick, no-pressure quotation.
FAQs
What’s the best way to clean windows?
Use warm soapy water with a soft cloth, then finish with a squeegee to help leave the glass streak-free. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, as these could damage the window surfaces.
What should I use to clean windows?
Mild washing-up liquid, warm water and a microfibre cloth are usually enough for regular window cleaning. Where suitable, a specialist window cleaner can also be used to tackle more stubborn marks.
How do you clean uPVC window frames?
Start by removing any loose dirt, then wipe the uPVC frames with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners and scouring pads, which could scratch or dull the finish.
How often should you clean your windows?
Aim to clean the glass every couple of months to prevent dirt from building up. Frames, seals and drainage channels should also be checked and cleaned at least twice a year as part of regular window maintenance.
