Window Screen Cleaning Tips

Your window screen serves multiple purposes. From keeping insects out, to improving the indoor air quality of your home, your window screens are very important. As such, you want to make sure that they continue to do the job they’re supposed to do, and last as long as possible.

And a big part of that is keeping them clean. The average fibreglass screen lasts anywhere from 3-7 years depending on sun exposure.

The thing is, window screens get dirty, especially when allergens like pollen and dust run rampant. That will reduce the life and effectiveness of your screens. Just like the annual physical at your regular “Doctor” can keep you healthy, giving your screens a good “physical” on a regular basis is important, and how you clean them makes all the difference.

If you have trouble removing the screens, don’t force them, they bend very easily – you might need professional help!

Use Warm Water

Everybody knows hot water removes dirt and grime. When soap is added, it can kill bacteria and germs as well. The same concept can be used to clean the mesh of your window screens. You can easily get rid of pollen, dust, grime and grease using nothing more than warm water and soap. The heat of the water will break these components down. Soak them in the water for about 5 minutes before completely rinsing them to get rid of the dirt. Use a soft bristled brush for more stubborn build ups.

Use a Mild Degreasing Cleaner

Sometimes the amount of grease that piles up on your window screens (particularly in the kitchen) is too much for just hot water to do the trick. If your screens have gone quite a while between cleanings, you might want to get yourself a mild eco-friendly degreaser to do the job. Spray the degreaser directly onto the screen, then as previously mentioned, use a soft bristled brush to get the dirt and grease to loosen. Use a garden hose to rinse the dirt and degreaser off.

Spray it With White Vinegar

Another great way to naturally clean your window screens and eliminate germs and bacteria is to spray it with distilled white vinegar that you can get at any supermarket. Pour the vinegar in an empty spray bottle, then blend an equal amount of water and spray liberally to the screen. While your home might smell like a tossed salad for an hour or so, it is absolutely eco-friendly! Once you’ve allowed the vinegar to soak for a bit, rinse it off with a garden hose outside or fresh water in your laundry sink.

If your window screen has become so encrusted with built up dirt and grime, it might be time for a “replacement.” In that case, be sure to contact Doctor Screen, the experts in residential and commercial window and door screens! The Doctor can do everything from a “cosmetic” service of the mesh or a total “replacement operation”’ mesh, frame and all!

Remember – if your screens look streaky white and silver instead of uniform black colour, not only are they less effective in dust and pollen control, they are also very weak and can easily have a hole punched through. It’s time to call the Doctor!