by Terry Baldwin

Created on: February 04, 2010

Spring is around the corner and you may be already starting to prepare your to-do list. Don't forget the windows. It may not be a pleasant task, but it helps to make your home look (and be) clean. It is recommended to clean your windows more than once a year, but many people would rather not do it at all. If you don't like cleaning windows and you don't care about money, hire someone to do it for you. Otherwise, get your supplies ready.

You will need a tall ladder, clean towels or rags, newspapers, paper towels for drying, detergent, a bucket or bowl with water and latex gloves. If you have a window cleaning kit, use it.

Start with cleaning indoor windows. Spread newspapers liberally on the floor to protect it from drips. If you have blinds or roll up shades, it would be best to take them off. Wet a clean towel in the bowl and wipe the window with it. It will take most of the dust and grime off. Then proceed to washing. Spray the window with detergent and rub the window with your towel. Wipe dry with paper towels. You can also use a rubber strip from your cleaning kit to remove excess water before drying.

For windows that are really high, you will have to use a ladder. That's one of the things people do not like about window cleaning. Make sure the ladder is stable. Use “S” hooks to hold your supplies, so you have one hand free for holding onto the ladder. Many home improvement stores sell long poles with a screw on one end which you can attach to the handle of your window cleaning tool. That may reduce the need for a ladder.

Cleaning windows outside will have to wait until it is warm out. In cold weather your hands will get cold very quickly. Climbing a ladder outside could be dangerous, especially if your yard isn't leveled. You will have to be extra careful. You may consider renting a special ladder that is designed for not leveled areas, like for example stairs. It will also work on a hill.

While cleaning your windows, do not forget the frames. They need to be cleaned too. For greasy kitchen windows, you can use some dish soap, before the regular wash.

Clean windows really make a difference how your home looks. By brightening your windows you will brighten your home.

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