How to Clean Window Screens

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Windows are our gateway to the outer world without taking actual efforts to step out. Windows play multifold roles in our homes, they welcome the to and fro movement of air which enables us to breathe naturally fresh air, they protect us from environmental debris without disturbing our view and so much more. 

For a moment, travel down your memory lane and jot down the times you cleaned your window screens or even thought of doing so to mention the least. That was a savage reality check, isn’t it? 

Stop nagging at yourself now and start the soothing process of removing dirt from them. 

How to Clean Window Screens

To determine the suitable process of cleaning for your window screens, you must first acknowledge the amount of dirt lodged on them. Suppose, if your screens have no visible signs of being filthy but they’re passively a tad dirty, you can just follow some basic steps of cleaning to make them look afresh. 

If you suffer from a dust allergy, remember to cover your face with a suitable mask.

Let’s look at the various extent of untidiness your screens can have and the methods to get over them. The supplies you might need for a thorough cleaning up are – 

• An old paintbrush
• Microfiber cloth pieces
• Garden hose
• Vinegar
• Mild detergent / soap
• A bucket
• A spare cloth
• Vacuum cleaner
• Water 

Minimal Dust

If you observe just a fine layer of dust particles on your window screens, you must go for this quick and easy session to get rid of the smudge. 

Unhinge the window screens with care and put them on a piece of cloth to prevent the smearing of dust. If you’re removing two or more screens at a time make sure to mark them where they belong using a pencil or a sharpie. 

Now, grab an old paintbrush or a wet microfiber cloth and carefully sweep away all the dust with the help of this brush/cloth. Repeat the process until the window screen looks perfectly transparent. 

Once you’re done with the dusting part, check for any further accumulation or cobwebs hanging around the corners. Finally, it’s time to reinstall them. This step has to be done with utter vigilance so that you don’t mismatch the screens and the windows. 

Moderate Dust

Moderate amounts of dirt include a significant layer of dust particles and other greasy substances that cannot be handled with merely a brushing stroke. 

Firstly, remove the window screens as done in the previous step and follow these steps. Place the screens on the floor. Switch on your handheld vacuum cleaner at low pressure and use a tiny extension nozzle to remove the bigger dust particles like pollen, cobwebs, insects, etc. 

Now take a wet microfiber cloth or brush and give it a fine round of cleaning without using much force. Turn the screen around and repeat the steps to finalize it. Allow it to dry for a few moments and lastly, replace the window screens when the dust is removed. 

Extremely Dirty

If your window screens seem like they just had a shower in a pool full of mud. This is implied by the aggregation of a thick layer of dust, grease, cobwebs, insects, and all possible sorts of things that can make your screens look hazy. 

Remove the window screens and take them out of your housing area, say in your garden. Now lay it on the ground carefully and prepare a cleaning solution. This is a mixture of a half tablespoon of mild soap/detergent and a cup of white vinegar in a bucket of water. 

Take an old paintbrush and rub this solution over the surface of window screens on both sides. Use a circular motion to scrub out the dirt and frequently rinse the brush in the solution. Make sure to keep an eye on those frames as well as they can be as equally dirty as the screens. 

Grab the garden horse and give your screens a nice and gentle shower (don’t use much force). Leave them to dry and reinstall them carefully. 

Tips for Cleaning Window Screens More Efficiently

• If your window screens have got paint latex on them, you must use thinner or acetone in that case. Just note the particular niche where it’s stained and apply the thinner using a microfiber cloth and rinse it thoroughly afterward. 
• For nonremovable window screens, either you can use a vacuum cleaner or a gentle brushing with the microfiber cloth and cleaning solution that we mentioned earlier. Make sure you’re not using an excessive amount of water as it may create a bigger mess to manage. 
• You can use transparent paint or a sealant if your window screens have developed some cracks or cavities for insects to enter. 

FAQs

How often should I replace window screens?

Window screens can last up to 10 years if they’re maintained well. But if you notice that the material is fading, damaged or there’s a tear, it should be replaced.

If the frames of your window screens are damaged, it can affect the screens too.

Should I remove my window screens in winter?

Snow can get trapped in between the frame and the trim, which will cause mold to form. Window screens also prevent natural sunlight from coming in, so it’s better to remove them during winter.

Which is the best material for window screens?

Fiberglass is the most popular material for window screens as it can be installed easily and is economical. It also won’t dent or crease.

But you should choose the one that’s more apt for your home and you, depending on your surroundings. For example, if there are pesky little insects in your area, go for a finer mesh fiberglass insect screen.

A regular cleaning routine is vital for your window screens as they’re the gateway to fresh air in your homes. Plus, clean windows will prohibit the growth of mold and dust inside your housing area. So make sure you clean them now and then!