HOW TO CLEAN WINDOW SILLS
Window sills provide a perfect horizontal surface for dust to settle. Since anything near a window is highly visible, a filthy window sill always catches your eye as you glance to enjoy the view of the outside.
Window tracks are a hard-to-wipe area, so bugs and debris can build up there. Unlike dirty window sills, dirty window tracks cause functional issues: They can make opening and closing a window difficult, which could potentially cause damage to the window or trim.
Cleaning Window Sills
Cleaning your window sills is very rewarding. Not only is it simple to do; it provides immediate results. You don’t have to bend over like you do when you clean baseboards or floors, and the supplies you need are simple. Cleaning window sills only requires a good microfiber cloth, an all-purpose spray and some cleaning music. Instructions are simple: Spray and wipe! Dance moves are optional as you visit each window in your home.
Your favorite all-purpose cleaner will work fine for this job, but you may also make your own homemade cleaner with a half-and-half mix of water and vinegar. This technique is safe and effective for vinyl and wood window sills. For stone or granite window sills, swap vinegar for rubbing alcohol.
How to Clean Window Tracks
Some window tracks get so dirty and gummed up that nobody even bothers to open the window anymore. Let Virginia Housekeepers help your windows glide with ease! Follow these window track cleaning tips:
- Vacuum. Use the brush attachment to remove dust, loose debris and dead bugs stuck in the window track.
- Sprinkle. Put a little baking soda on the remaining stuck-on gunk, and then spray some vinegar into the tracks. Allow this to soak and bubble for 10 minutes.
- Scrub. Brush the loosened gunk with an old toothbrush or stiff nylon brush. Use a shop vacuum to suck up the wet debris, or wipe it up with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Target. If any debris remains, wrap a damp cloth around a butter knife and guide it into the corners where the dirt is hardest to reach.
- Wipe. Bring your cloth down the track one last time, and admire your handiwork.
- Lubricate. Once you’re finished, add the right kind of lubricant. On vinyl tracks, use a small amount of silicone lubricant. On wooden window tracks, use an appropriate wax. Open and close the window several times to heat and spread the lubricant. Apply more as needed. Don’t skip this important step if you want your windows to glide like new.
Windows can be one of the most beautiful features of a home, but they also stick out the most when they have dust and cobwebs on them. Keep your home – and your view – looking great by cleaning your window sills and tracks as soon as you see any buildup.
