Last Updated on August 28, 2023
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Sash windows are known for their classic design and smooth operation. However, dirt and grime can accumulate over time, affecting both their appearance and functionality. Regular cleaning is essential to keep them looking their best and operating efficiently. In this article, we’ll discuss two effective methods for cleaning and caring for your sash windows.
The best way to clean sash windows from the inside involves using either the traditional soap and water cleaning method or a steam cleaner. Both methods ensure thorough cleaning of the window panes, tracks, and sills while protecting the timber surfaces and seals.
Let’s take a walk through the steps to clean your sash windows effectively from the inside.
Typically your sash windows will tilt inward to around 50 degrees, so you should be able to reach and clean the outside, as well as the inside.
Does It Wash Team
Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Sash Windows from the Inside
- Prepare the Area. Before you begin cleaning, lay a drop cloth or old towels on the floor beneath the windows to catch any drips and protect your flooring. Also, gather all necessary cleaning materials, such as a bucket of warm soapy water, a soft cloth or sponge, a small brush or old toothbrush, and a lint-free cloth or microfiber towel.
- Remove Dust and Debris. Use a soft brush, such as a dusting brush or a clean paintbrush, to gently remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris from the interior window panes, sills, and surrounding areas.
- Unlock and Open the Sashes. Unlock and carefully open both the upper and lower sashes, sliding them to the center of the window to provide easy access to the panes, tracks, and sills.
- Clean the Window Panes. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the warm soapy water and wring it out until it is damp but not dripping. Gently wash the interior side of the window panes, taking care not to damage the timber surfaces or any seals.
- Clean the Tracks and Sills. Use a small brush or an old toothbrush to clean the interior tracks and sills, ensuring that all dirt and grime are removed. You can also use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the sills.
- Rinse and Dry the Windows. Use a clean cloth or sponge dampened with clean water to rinse away any soap residue from the window panes, tracks, and sills. Dry the windows with a lint-free cloth or microfiber towel to prevent streaks and watermarks.
- Inspect for Damage. After cleaning, inspect the interior side of your sash windows for any signs of damage, such as cracks, rot, or peeling paint, and address any issues promptly.
- Close and Lock the Sashes. Once everything is clean and dry, close both the upper and lower sashes, ensuring that they are properly aligned and functioning smoothly. Lock the sashes to secure the window.
Cleaning Sash Windows Using a Steam Cleaner
A steam cleaner is an alternative method for cleaning the interior side of sash windows that can be particularly effective for removing stubborn dirt and grime. Follow these steps to clean your sash windows with a steam cleaner:
- Prepare the steam cleaner. Fill the water tank of your steam cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions and preheat the device.
- Prepare the area. As with Method 1, lay a drop cloth or old towels on the floor beneath the windows to catch any drips and protect your flooring.
- Remove loose dirt and debris. Use a soft brush or a clean paintbrush to gently remove any loose dirt or debris from the interior window panes, sills, and surrounding areas.
- Unlock and open the sashes. Carefully open both the upper and lower sashes, sliding them to the center of the window to provide easy access to the panes, tracks, and sills.
- Clean the window panes. Use the steam cleaner’s window attachment, if available, to clean the interior side of the window panes. Move the attachment in a smooth, continuous motion, taking care not to damage the timber surfaces or any seals.
- Clean the window tracks and sills. Use the steam cleaner’s brush attachment to clean the interior tracks and sills, ensuring that all dirt and grime are removed. You can also use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the sills after steaming them.
- Wipe the windows dry. Use a lint-free cloth or microfiber towel to dry the windows, preventing streaks and watermarks. The steam may cause some condensation on the window panes and surrounding surfaces, so be sure to dry everything thoroughly.
- Inspect for damage. Inspect all areas of the interior side of your sash windows for any signs of damage. Any issues should be quickly dealt with.
FAQs
What materials do I need to clean sash windows?
To clean sash windows, you’ll need a bucket, warm water, mild dish soap, a soft cloth or sponge, a small brush or old toothbrush, and a lint-free cloth or microfiber towel. If using a steam cleaner, you’ll also need the appropriate attachments for cleaning windows and window tracks.
How often should I clean my sash windows?
It is recommended to clean your sash windows every three to six months, depending on the amount of dirt and dust exposure in your area. Cleaning them more frequently may be necessary if you live in an area with high levels of pollution, or if your windows are exposed to significant amounts of dust and debris.
What cleaning products should I avoid using on sash windows?
Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or any products containing ammonia, as these can damage the timber surfaces, paint, or seals of your sash windows. Stick to mild dish soap or gentle window cleaning solutions that are specifically designed to use on sash windows.
How do I clean the timber surfaces of sash windows?
To clean the timber surfaces of sash windows, use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm soapy water. Gently wipe the surfaces to remove dirt and grime, taking care not to damage the paint or seals. Rinse the cloth or sponge in clean water and wipe away any soap residue, then dry the surfaces with a lint-free cloth or microfiber towel.
How often should I check my sash windows for damage?
Inspect your sash windows for damage every time you clean them, or at least every six months. Look for signs of rot, cracks, peeling paint, or damaged seals, and address any issues promptly to maintain the integrity and functionality of your windows.
What should I avoid using when cleaning sash windows?
When cleaning sash windows, avoid using abrasive tools, such as steel wool or scouring pads, as they can scratch the glass or damage the timber surfaces. Also, avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products containing ammonia, as these can harm the paint, seals, and timber.
How can regular cleaning help keep sash windows functioning smoothly?
Regular cleaning helps keep sash windows functioning smoothly by removing dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the window panes, tracks, and other moving parts. This build-up can cause stickiness, making the windows difficult to open and close. With routine regular cleaning you can inspect for damage and address any issues early, preventing more extensive repairs in the future.
Summary
Cleaning sash windows is essential to maintain their appearance and functionality. Two effective methods for cleaning sash windows are the traditional soap and water cleaning method and using a steam cleaner.
Regular cleaning, along with proper maintenance and inspections, will help keep your sash windows looking beautiful and functioning efficiently for years to come.
