Summer is all about fun, family, and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a season that leaves its mark—especially on your windows. Whether it’s sticky fingerprints from little hands or dirt and dust carried in with storms, your windows likely bear the grime of summer more than most areas of your home.
After the kids go back to school and the daily routine settles in, it’s the perfect time to deep clean your windows—inside and out and all around. A thorough window cleaning brightens your home, removes allergens, and restores a fresh feel that will last through fall into the holiday season.
Why Clean Your Windows After Summer?
During the warmest months of the year, your windows endure a great deal of wear and tear. Not only is there more foot traffic in the house, the summer heat can stir up dust, pollen, and particulates that cling to windows and screens and settle on sills and in tracks. Add in water spots from sprinklers and residue from summer storms, and it’s no wonder your windows become soiled, streaky, and dingy by autumn.
Here's why early fall is the ideal time to give your windows the deep clean they deserve:
- Remove summer buildup: Create a healthier environment for you and your family by eliminating dust, pollen, and grime that collects on both sides of your windows, as well as on screens, sills, and window panes.
- Improve natural light: Clean windows let in more light, an added bonus as the days start to grow shorter. More light also helps lower energy consumption.
- Enhance indoor air quality: Window sills, tracks, and screens trap allergens like mold, mildew, and dust. Removing these allergens improves indoor air quality, ensuring your family breathes easier.
- Refresh your space: A clean, organized environment directly supports better mental well-being. There’s something satisfying about looking out of streak-free windows into the crisp autumn landscape.
- Clean ahead for the holidays: Focusing on windows and the adjacent areas now means one less thing you’ll have to deep clean to get ready for holiday guests.
Areas to Tackle During Your Window Refresh
When it comes to deep cleaning your windows, there’s more to consider than just the glass. To truly bring back your home’s sparkle, you’ll want to address every part of your windows and the surrounding area.
Window Frames
Start with your window frames to avoid streaks and splashes on freshly cleaned glass. Window frames accumulate grime and moisture, which can lead to long-term damage. Different materials like wood, vinyl, or aluminum require specific care, so follow product recommendations for cleaning solutions.
Window Sills and Tracks
If window sills and tracks have been neglected, they may need a thorough cleaning. Use a vacuum attachment for loose debris and a toothbrush to remove dirt and mildew buildup from corners and crevices.
Window Screens
Screens do more than keep bugs out; they also trap pollen and pollution. Remove them, gently scrub with soap and water, and make sure they dry completely before reinstalling.
Window Glass
Clean glass enhances your view and helps extend the life of your windows. Both interior window cleaning and exterior window cleaning are important for a complete refresh. Each side of the glass requires slightly different techniques and considerations—check out these pro tips for cleaning the inside and outside of windows.
Curtains and Drapes
Summer dust doesn’t stop on the windows themselves. Wash or steam-clean your curtains and consider switching to heavier fabrics for the cooler months.
Blinds and Shades
Dust loves to lurk on blinds and shades. Clean these window coverings thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment. Don’t forget to clean cords and hardware along the way.
Step-by-Step Process for Clean Windows
Want window cleaning results that sparkle? Follow these simple steps:
- Remove curtains or blinds to access the full window area
- Dust and vacuum window sills, tracks, and corners
- Wipe down frames, locks, and window hardware
- Take out screens and gently wash with soap and water
- Clean window glass using a streak-free solution, a lint-free cloth, and a squeegee
- Let everything dry fully before reinstalling curtains and screens
Keep in mind that timing matters when it comes to streak-free windows.
- Best time of day: Late morning or overcast days—avoid direct sunlight to prevent streaking.
- Best time of year: Early fall offers mild temperatures, less pollen, and fewer bugs. And let’s face it—cleaning is just easier when the kids are back in school.
- Best weather: For the absolute best streak-free results, opt for overcast weather. Cleaning windows on sunny days causes cleaning solutions to dry too quickly, leaving streaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I clean my windows after the kids go back to school?
With less activity in the house, you can finally tackle deep cleaning without interruptions. Plus, it helps reset your space for fall routines.
What supplies do I need to clean my windows?
For most window cleaning projects, you’ll need a bucket and sponge, microfiber cloths, and—a window cleaner’s best friend—a squeegee. Many storebought window cleaning solutions work well, or you can make your own window cleaning solution with just a few ingredients.
What can I use to clean dirty window sills?
Bleach, water, white vinegar, and dish soap are effective products for cleaning windowsills. They help in removing dirt, grime, and mold from the sills without damaging the surface.
What’s the best way to clean window screens?
Use a soft brush and soapy water to gently scrub away debris, then rinse and air-dry completely before reinstalling.
Can I clean windows myself or should I hire a pro?
DIY cleaning works for ground-level windows, but safely cleaning upper-story windows or removing extensive buildup often requires professional tools and techniques.
Hiring a Professional Window Cleaning Company
If your windows haven’t been cleaned in a while—or if the idea of deep cleaning your windows sounds like a hassle—leave it to the pros. At Window Hero, we specialize in residential window cleaning that’s safe, efficient, and spotless every time.
What We Offer:
- Interior and exterior window cleaning
- Screen and sill detailing
- Safe cleaning of high and hard-to-reach windows
- Environmentally friendly cleaning products
- Fully insured, highly trained technicians
- A streak-free satisfaction guarantee!
We take the hassle out of window cleaning so you can enjoy a brighter, healthier home this fall, without lifting a finger. Book your back-to-school window cleaning today and let Window Hero restore your home's shine!