If you have draperies, I recommend vacuuming them while hanging in place, before you begin washing your windows so that the dust you are disturbing in the drapes does not cling to your freshly cleaned window(s). After you have vacuumed your curtains, gently tie them back or take them down so that you can clean your windows without obstruction.
Clean your blinds now too or send them out for cleaning. In our area, companies come in take down the blinds, take them to their shop for ultrasonic cleaning and rehang them when done, often all in the same day. For this service we pay about $15 CDN per window. If you are cleaning your blinds yourself this can be done in the bathtub, or I have seen some people hang them between two ladders and clean them in their driveway. In either case you will want to rinse them thoroughly when done, so the strings connecting the blinds don’t become discoloured. Honestly though, if you can at all fit it into your budget, I would opt for having them cleaned, but as always it is up to you and what you prefer.
Vacuum out your bottom window casings as it is easier to get out the ‘grimies’ while they are still dry. Next wash your side window casings, and if your windows have decorative casings outside the window proper, now is the time to wipe them down too. Having wiped down all the outer parts of the window, it is now time to wash your window. Because windows are one of the more difficult items to clean in your house, it is especially important to consider your cleaning tools as they can make your task easy, or incredibly frustrating. I recommend using a squeegee for washing windows as they help immensely when it comes to streak free windows. Make sure any cloth you are using is lint free, (a microfiber cloth that is washed separately). Personally, I find vinegar and water works well, I also use Windex, but there are numerous products on the market that you may prefer. After washing your windows wipe up any cleaning solution from the bottom window casing and wash/wipe your window sill.
Finally, inspect your window’s weather-stripping, locking mechanisms, and slide mechanisms. Make note of anything needing further attention or repairs.
Jandy
