If your window screens are only covered with a little bit of dust, a lint roller may be enough to get the job done. For loose dirt, a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment is also effective (just avoid the screen holes).
If your screens are caked in grime, give them a bath on a sunny day by spraying them with a garden hose nozzle set to a low-pressure setting. Follow with a scrub brush and soapy water, then rinse. Read on for some ideas.
Window and Door Frames
Window frames play a critical function, holding panes in place and ensuring energy efficiency. But they also contribute to the look and feel of a home. That’s why regular cleaning is important.
Before you reach for cleaners and sponges, start by sweeping or vacuuming dirt and debris from the sill and track. This will help prevent loose particles from mixing with your cleaner and causing streaks. A mini vacuum or a standard vacuum with a hose attachment is perfect for this task.
Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive materials on your frames. These can damage surfaces and cause yellowing on white frames. Instead, choose natural cleaners that don’t contain bleach, chlorine, soap, or detergent. You can also use lint-free microfiber cloths and a squeegee to achieve a streak-free shine.
Screens
Window screens are unsung heroes, keeping out bugs and allowing fresh breezes into your home without all the dust and pollen. But when the screens become caked in dirt, cobwebs, and grime, it’s time for a wash.
First, vacuum the screens with a brush attachment to remove loose debris and spider webs. Then, lay them out on a tarp or drop cloth for protection from cleaning solution drips. (A large towel works well for this, but you can also use a painter’s drop cloth.)
Wet a clean, lint-free microfiber cloth in the bucket of soapy water and gently wipe down the screen, paying special attention to any spots with excess grime. Rinse and dry the cloth frequently, wringing out the excess water to avoid drips. If you don’t have a hose with a gentle spray setting, rinsing the screens in the shower works just as well. Then, reinstall your fresh and clean window screens.
Screen Frames
When your window screens are clean, you can open the windows and let the fresh breeze come through without blowing dust particles into your home. Dirty screens can cause sinus and allergy irritation, and trap dirt in the tiny screen holes.
If your screens aren’t caked in dirt, you can often get by with a light cleaning using a vacuum or a sponge with soapy water. You might want to use a lint roller for loose dust and dirt, or a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (be sure to get the extra-strength one, as regular erasers may stretch or tear the screens).
If your screens are especially dirty, you’ll need to remove them and lay them outside in a sunny spot for cleaning. Consider labeling each screen with masking tape or a marker before removal to make re-installation easier later on. Mix 1/4 cup of all-purpose dish soap with a gallon of water, or a few tablespoons of vinegar if you want to deodorize your screens as well.
Cleaning
If you’re looking for a quick clean, simply vacuum the screen with the brush attachment to remove dirt and dust. For greasy or sticky spots, use a sponge and hot water to rinse the screen and wipe down.
To keep the bugs and lint out, wash the windows and doors on a regular basis using a window cleaner and a squeegee or soft cloth. Be sure to spray the solution in a narrow line along the center of the glass, and avoid the edges or non-glass surfaces. After washing, work quickly to dry the glass before it drips.
If your screens are starting to look rusty, pour white vinegar over the rusted areas and scrub them with a brush or toothbrush. You can also make a paste from baking soda and water or a cleaner that contains oxalic acid like Zud or Bar Keepers Friend, apply it to the rusty areas and scrub, then rinse and dry as usual. Read on to find out!
