Like most homeowners, you may only clean your home’s windows when there’s a smudge on the glass. But when was the last time you looked closely at the rest of the window?
Windows are more than just glass, and these other components need a little TLC, too. Keeping all parts of your windows clean helps you note any signs of wear and extends the lifespan of your windows.
One of the most often overlooked window components is the track. Window tracks can quickly become home to crud – dust, pollen and dead insects commonly accumulate in window tracks.
Read on to learn how to clean your window tracks.
What Are Window Tracks?
Window tracks are the channels below and alongside each window. They allow the window to slide open and closed. They also keep the window in place and form a seal to keep out wind and weather. Dirty window tracks can cause windows to seize up and allow drafts into your home.
How to Clean Window Tracks
To clean your window tracks, gather these supplies:
- Vacuum cleaner with detail hose attachment
- Spare rags or paper towels
- Old toothbrush or small cleaning brush
- Baking soda, white vinegar and dish soap
- Bucket of warm water
- Spray bottle
- Rubber gloves
To clean your window tracks:
- Open your window as much as you can. Assess the tracks. Note, if there is anything to clean on the side tracks and remove the screen if possible.
- Using your vacuum’s hose attachment, quickly vacuum up any loose dirt or large particles.
- Using the old toothbrush, loosen any remaining debris.
- Sprinkle the baking soda on the window tracks. Concentrate on grimiest areas.
- Mix the white vinegar with water in your spray bottle.
- Spray the vinegar-and-water mix onto your window tracks until all the baking soda is wet. This will cause a fizzy chemical reaction. Let the mixture sit for about five minutes.
- Spray more vinegar mix onto the side window tracks and let it drip down.
- Put on the rubber gloves. Using the old toothbrush, scrub the vertical and bottom window tracks. Work from the top down and concentrate on the corners.
- Use rags or paper towels to soak up remaining cleaning mix.
- If some grime still remains, mix dish soap into your bucket of warm water. Dip rags or paper towels into the soap mixture and wipe the tracks until clean.
- Use a dry rag or paper towel to dry and polish all surfaces. Leave the window open so the tracks can air-dry, if possible.
- Once the tracks are completely dry, replace the screen and close the window.
Cleaning Your Window Tracks Seasonally
We recommend cleaning your home’s window tracks at least once or twice a year, preferably in the fall and spring. Intermediary cleanings will make bi-annual cleaning even quicker.
Let Glass Doctor Fix Your Panes!
Having trouble opening, closing or locking your windows? Glass Doctor® can help! Call 833-974-0209 or request an appointment online today to get started.