Summer Cleaning and Window Maintenance

How to keep doors, windows and blinds spick and span this Summer season.

Ready to brush away the winter cobwebs on your windows? With the arrival of warmer, drier days (hello summer!), it’s the perfect time to scrub up on your window maintenance knowledge and take a cloth to your frames.

We’ve teamed up with the experts at Hillary’s to cover everything from timber sash windows on period properties to the blinds inside your home.

Learn the A-Z of window cleaning in this guide.

Preparing Your Windows for Cleaning

Before going straight in with your cleaning solution, your windows are going to need a bit of prep work.

Start by using a soft-bristled brush to get rid of any grime, dirt, and dust. Vacuum cleaners with thin nozzles are also excellent for prepping your windows and can get into those hard-to-reach areas with ease.

What Should You Use to Clean Windows?

The cleaning solution you use will vary depending on the type of windows you have. Our R9 timber alternative windows, for example, require a gentle product that’s well-suited to composite frames. We recommend a non-abrasive washing-up liquid mixed with warm water.

You can also buy cleaners specifically designed for use on UPVC doors. These are perfect if you’ve got a tough job to tackle, making it easier to clear tough dirt and grime without too much elbow grease. If you do use a specialised cleaning product, be sure to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.

What About Washing Your Doors?

If you’re washing your RD doors alongside your windows, you can go ahead and follow the same advice as above.

As our windows and doors are made from the same low-maintenance materials, keeping them clean should be a breeze.

Give Your Blinds a Spruce

Cleaning your windows isn’t all about the outside! If you have blinds, it’s a great idea to give them a summer clean.

As with window frames, different blinds will need different cleaning.

Composite blinds, for example, will require the same solutions as your window frames. For cloth roller blinds, you’ll need to change your approach, and it’s a great idea to check out the manufacturer’s advice.

If you’ve paired your windows with Hillarys blinds, here are some care tips for looking after their made-to-measure roller blinds:

Remove dust and debris with the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Wipe the blind with a clean, damp cloth and let it dry thoroughly.
Use a fabric stain remover for tougher stains, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Checking for Damage

Cleaning your windows and doors is an ideal time to check them over for any damage.

Look out for any cracks in the glass, warped frames, or signs of rust on hinges and handles. If your windows or doors are sticking or not closing properly, it could be a sign that something’s out of alignment. Check the sealant around your frames, too, and ensure you don’t have any gaps that could lead to drafts and moisture issues.

By spotting these issues early, you can get them fixed before they turn into costly repairs.

Final Thoughts

If you want your windows to look their best and last for years to come, cleaning is a must. We hope these tips for summer cleaning your windows, blinds, and doors have given you the inspiration you need to get your cloths out and keep your home looking spick and span. P.S. If you’re looking for more advice on cleaning doors, take a peek at our blog on how to clean your front door!