The Homeowner’s Seasonal Guide to Window Cleaning & Maintenance

The Homeowner’s Seasonal Guide to Window Cleaning & Maintenance

Your windows are your home’s connection to the outside world. But to keep that view clear and your windows functioning perfectly year-round, they need a little seasonal love. A proactive approach not only keeps them beautiful but also extends their lifespan and prevents costly repairs.

This simple, seasonal guide will walk you through the key tasks for each part of the year and necessary window cleaning supplies, blending DIY care with knowing when to call in the pros.

Spring: The Deep Clean & Damage Assessment

After a long winter, spring is the time for a thorough refresh.

  • The Main Task: A full, detailed clean, inside and out. Wash away the salt, grime, and pollen that have built up. This is the perfect time to achieve that perfect, streak-free shine.
  • DIY Focus: This is a great season for a hands-on clean. Use a proper squeegee and scrubber kit and a dedicated cleaning solution for best results. Don’t forget the window tracks—vacuum them out first, then scrub with an old toothbrush.
  • Pro Tip: As you clean, inspect each window closely. Look for any cracks in the glass, peeling paint on wooden frames, or drafts you might have missed during the colder months. This is the ideal time to schedule any needed repairs.

Summer: Tackling Tough Stains & Maintaining Screens

Summer brings sunshine, but also unique challenges like hard water from sprinklers and high pollen counts.

  • The Main Task: Maintenance cleaning and dealing with specific summer issues.
  • DIY Focus: Keep a high-quality microfibre cloth handy for quick wipe-downs of interior smudges and fingerprints. Remove and gently wash your window screens with mild soapy water to rinse away pollen and dust, ensuring better airflow.
  • When to Call a Pro: If you notice persistent hard water spots from your garden sprinklers, don’t scrub aggressively. These mineral deposits can etch the glass. This is a job for a professional service who have the right water stain to dissolve them safely.

Autumn: Preparing for the Storm

Fall is all about preparation. Your goal is to get your windows ready to face the wind, rain, and cold of winter.

  • The Main Task: Clearing debris and sealing out the drafts.
  • DIY Focus: Clear leaves and organic matter from window tracks and sills to prevent moisture buildup and rot. Check the caulking and weatherstripping around your windows. If it’s brittle or cracked, head to your local hardware storefor supplies and re-caulk to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
  • Pro Tip: Schedule a final professional clean in late autumn. Removing summer and autumn grime ensures maximum winter sunlight can penetrate your windows, helping to warm your home naturally.

Winter: The Interior Focus & Gentle Care

With the harsh weather outside, shift your focus inwards and handle exterior cleaning with care.

  • The Main Task: Interior cleaning and visual inspection.
  • DIY Focus: Winter is the perfect time for a detailed interior clean. With the sun lower in the sky, you’ll easily see any streaks or smudges. A good interior clean also makes your home feel brighter and more cheerful during the shorter days.
  • When to Call a Pro: Never attempt to clean exterior windows yourself in icy or freezing conditions. It is extremely dangerous. Leave any necessary exterior winter cleaning to the professionals who have the training and equipment to work safely in colder conditions.

The Golden Rule: Know When to Call the Professionals

While regular maintenance is key, some jobs are best left to the experts if you have:

  • High or hard-to-reach windows (second story and above).
  • Persistent problems like hard water stains or fogging between panes.
  • A lack of time or desire to do the deep cleaning yourself.
  • Any concerns about safety.

Your Year-Round View

By following this simple seasonal rhythm, you’re no longer just cleaning your windows—you’re maintaining and protecting them. With a little consistent care, combined with the expert touch when needed, Acorn Window Cleaning guarantees a clear, bright view and a well-cared-for home through every season.