Cleaning double windows, especially double-hung windows, involves specific steps to access both sides of the glass for a sparkling, streak-free finish. This guide focuses on the common method for double-hung windows, which allow both sashes to tilt inward for convenient cleaning.
Double-hung windows are characterized by two sashes that slide vertically past each other. Many modern double-hung windows feature a convenient tilt-in function, allowing both the upper and lower sashes to pivot inward, making it easy to clean both the interior and exterior glass surfaces from inside your home.
Essential Supplies for Window Cleaning
Gathering your supplies beforehand ensures a smooth and efficient cleaning process.
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Warm Water | For mixing with cleaner and rinsing. |
| Dish Soap | A few drops work as an effective, low-cost window cleaning solution. |
| Window Cleaner | Alternatively, use a commercial window cleaning spray. |
| Squeegee | Essential for streak-free results, especially on larger panes. |
| Microfiber Cloths | For wiping, buffing, and drying; lint-free. |
| Old Towels/Drop Cloths | To protect floors and sills from drips and spills. |
| Small Bucket | For holding cleaning solution. |
| Stool or Chair | Can be used to rest a tilted window sash for stability during cleaning. |
| Old Toothbrush/Cotton Swabs | For cleaning tracks and tight corners. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Double-Hung Windows
Follow these steps to effectively clean your double-hung windows, ensuring both sides of the glass are accessible and spotless.
1. Preparation
Before you begin, lay down old towels or a drop cloth on the floor directly beneath the window to catch any water drips or spills. This protects your flooring and makes cleanup easier.
2. Accessing the Glass (Tilting the Sashes)
Most modern double-hung windows are designed for easy tilting:
- Unlock the Window: Ensure both the top and bottom sashes are unlocked.
- Raise the Bottom Sash: Lift the bottom sash up approximately 4-6 inches.
- Lower the Top Sash: Pull the top sash down so its top edge is about 4-6 inches from the bottom sill. This helps create space for tilting.
- Locate Tilt Latches: On the top of the lower sash and the bottom of the upper sash, you'll find small tilt latches (often on both sides).
- Engage Tilt Latches: Slide these latches inward on both sashes.
- Gently Tilt Inward: With the latches engaged, carefully pull both sashes inward and down towards you until they are resting horizontally, or close to it, within the window frame.
3. The Cleaning Process
Once the sashes are tilted inward, you have full access to both the interior and exterior surfaces of each pane:
- Clean the Glass: "You can now clean the glass."
- Start by cleaning the exterior surfaces of both the upper and lower sashes. This allows you to address the dirtiest part first.
- Apply your cleaning solution (warm water with a few drops of dish soap, or a commercial window cleaner) to the glass using a sponge or microfiber cloth.
- For streak-free results, use a squeegee: apply even pressure and pull the squeegee in overlapping strokes, wiping the blade clean after each stroke. Alternatively, use clean, lint-free microfiber cloths to wipe the glass until sparkling.
- Clean the interior surfaces of both sashes.
- Don't forget to wipe down the window frames, sills, and tracks. An old toothbrush or cotton swab can be useful for cleaning grime out of the tracks.
4. Post-Cleaning Resting and Closing
After you have thoroughly cleaned the glass and frames:
- Rest the Window: "Once clean allow the window to gently set on the bottom or let it rest on a stool or chair." This provides stability and support for the sash while you might be doing a final check or moving to the next window.
- Reposition Sashes: Gently push the sashes back up into their upright position within the window frame. Ensure the tilt latches click back into place, securing the sashes.
- Close the Windows: "To close the windows go evenly back up and let each panel snap." Guide each sash smoothly and evenly into its closed position. The "snap" indicates that the sashes are fully seated and locked, or that the tilt latches have fully disengaged and secured the sashes.
- Lock the Window: Finally, engage the locks to secure your clean window.
Tips for a Streak-Free Shine
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Clean windows on a cloudy day or when the sun isn't directly on them. Direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, leading to streaks.
- Use Quality Tools: Invest in good microfiber cloths and a quality squeegee for the best results.
- Change Water Frequently: If using a soap and water solution, change the water often to avoid spreading dirt.
- Wipe Blades: If using a squeegee, wipe its blade clean after each stroke to prevent streaks.
- Clean Top Down: Always clean from the top of the window down to let gravity assist with drips.
