Cleaning your window screens is part of maintaining your windows. Not only does it look nice but clean window screens allow more natural light into your home and allow the freshest air to flow into your home. Most homeowners only need to clean their window screens once a year; however, you may need to clean more frequently depending on the weather conditions.
To properly clean window screens, you’ll need:
- A sponge
- Soft bristle brush (Make sure the bristles aren’t too hard so they don’t tear the screen.)
- All-purpose dish soap (Dawn works great) or a 50/50 water and white vinegar mixture
- A garden hose with a spray nozzle
- A bucket of warm water
Before you begin cleaning, decide whether you’ll wash each screen one by one or altogether. To clean window screens:
- Remove the window screen from the window frame and set aside.
- Vacuum the window frame so you can remove any dead bugs or collected dust the screen trapped inside the frame.
- Fill your bucket with warm water and a few drops of all-purpose dish soap.
- Spray the window screen with a hose but make sure you do not use a high-pressure setting (on the nozzle) that could possibly break the screen.
- Dip your bristle brush (or sponge) into the soapy mixture and gently scrub the window screens.
- Rinse the window screen once you’ve properly washed.
- Let the window screen air dry before putting it back into the window frame. It will make the most sense to prop them against the fence or garage door; somewhere in the sun.
If you have a second story window or are afraid of heights, consider using a duster to keep your window screens clean. Window installers can also provide you with solid recommendations on window cleaning services in your area.
Remember your window screens protect your home from bugs and small pests, filter your air, and protect windows from breaking so it’s important to keep them clean and maintained.