How to Wash Exterior Windows

How to Clean The Outside Of Your Windows Easily

It’s no secret: no one likes to clean their windows, especially the outside of your windows. But with Window World windows, there are some ways to make this chore easier—and faster—than ever.

We’re here with some tips on cleaning exterior windows, even if they’re unreachable because of their height or surrounding plants and shrubs.

The easiest way to clean the outside of your windows is by opening them inward. Many modern double-hung windows, like ours, open inward for easy cleaning.

If you’re not sure if your windows tilt inward, look at the top of the bottom sash. If your windows tilt open, you’ll see tabs on either side of the top of the frame. Simply unlock your window, push those tabs in and gently tilt the sash inward.

How to Open and Clean Double-Hung Windows For Cleaning

On Window World double-hung windows, the top and bottom sashes tilt inward for easy cleaning. If you have double-hung windows, you can tilt the bottom sash inward by following the instructions above for cleaning. To open the top sash, pull it halfway down and push the tabs on top of the frame in. Gently tilt it open and rest it on the sill. You can see a demonstration in the video below:

Once it’s open, you can use a paper towel or soft microfiber cloth and window cleaner to wash them. Clean around the outside of the frame, and then push the sash back into place. Make sure you hear it click so you know it’s secure!

If your windows don’t tilt open inward, cleaning them is still pretty straightforward. It just requires a little more elbow grease.

How to Wash Exterior Windows

For windows on the first story of your Muscle Shoals home, follow these steps to clean them:

• Rinse your windows with a hose to remove loose dirt. We don’t recommend using a pressure washer since there is a risk of high pressure damaging your windows. Be sure to rinse your frames, too!
• Using a soft microfiber cloth and a mixture of dish soap and water or vinegar and water (1 ½ cups vinegar to each gallon of water), wipe the windows and frames clean.
• Rinse again with your hose.
• Use a clean rubber-edge squeegee to dry your windows. This will minimize water spots and dry them faster than using a cloth.
• For stubborn spots like bird droppings, soak the spot with cleaner and water and let sit for several minutes. Scrub it with a non-scratch sponge to remove it and rinse well.

How to Clean Exterior Windows That Are Not Easily Accessible

For windows that are inaccessible, such as windows on the second story or windows that have shrubs or plants in front of them, follow these steps:

• Rinse your windows with a hose to remove loose dirt.
• Using the same dish soap and water or vinegar and water mixture, use a mop to clean your windows. You can find mops specifically designed for windows online or in home improvement stores, or you can use any mop with a flat head. Just be sure not to use one with an abrasive head, as this can damage your windows.
• Rinse again with your hose.
• If you have a long-handled squeegee, you can use it to dry your windows. If not, let them air dry.

How to Clean Window Screens

Your window screens are exposed to all of the elements, so it’s important to give them a thorough cleaning now and then! Here’s how to do it:

• Carefully remove the screen and rinse it with your hose.
• Spray or rinse each screen with a soap/water or water/vinegar mixture.
• Rinse well with clean water to remove all soap.
• Allow them to completely dry before placing them back in your windows. Save time by cleaning your screens first and allowing them to dry while you clean your windows!

Simplify Window Cleaning with Window World of Muscle Shoals

Our double-hung windows make cleaning your windows easier than ever. With easy-to-operate sashes that tilt inward, getting crystal clear windows is a snap. To learn more, schedule your free quote today!