How to Clean Window Screens (DIY Guide)

Wondering how to clean window screens without making a mess? We won’t lie to you, it’s a tedious job. Then again, so is deep cleaning in general!

Fortunately, there’s an easy way to get your window screens dust and grime free without too much fuss. All you have to do is set aside some time — about three hours or so — and follow our DIY guide.

Let’s get started.

Introduction to Window Screen Maintenance

Window screens are an essential component of any home, providing a barrier against bugs, dust, and debris while allowing fresh air to circulate. However, over time, window screens can become clogged with dirt, dust, and other particles, reducing their effectiveness and potentially damaging the window frames. Regular cleaning and maintenance of window screens are crucial to ensure they continue to function properly and provide a clean and healthy indoor environment. In this article, we will discuss the importance of cleaning window screens, the materials needed, and the step-by-step process of cleaning and maintaining window screens.

What You’ll Need: How to Clean Window Screens

Before you start, gather all the materials needed to clean your window screens effectively.

To get started, you’ll need a few tools and supplies. You likely have many of these things at home already, so you probably won’t even have to run out to the store to get the job done — which means one less step!

The Tools and Supplies:

• A soft bristle brush
• A vacuum (hand-held or a regular vacuum with a brush attachment will work)
• A sponge
• A hose — preferably with a spray nozzle
• A large bucket or bowl
• Microfiber cloths or dry towels
• A spray bottle, bucket, or large bowl
• Dish soap (preferably mild dish soap), all-purpose cleaner, or distilled white vinegar to create a cleaning solution (while vinegar is optional, you’ll want to have it handy if your window screens are showing rust)
• Baking soda

While certain chemicals can be used, it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the screens.

There is also a product called Screen Magic that’s specifically made for cleaning window screens if you’d prefer to mix your own solution. However, good old soapy water works just fine.

Having enough space, such as an alleyway or yard, allows for easier cleaning using hoses, brushes, and other methods.

7 Steps to Clean Window Screens

1) Remove All Your Window Screens

While some will tell you to use an extension ladder or a step ladder to reach your window screens, we think it’s a whole lot easier to completely remove them from the windows and place them outside where you’ll be cleaning. Ensure that you handle the screens carefully to avoid damaging the frame during removal. Some window screens are secured with tabs that need to be pushed out to remove the screens from their frames. This way, you’ll be able to safely access every corner of each window screen without having to worry about heights or getting water inside your home.

If it’s easier, you can remove the screens in groups by room so you won’t get confused when it comes time to put them back. This is also a good time to inspect your windows in their entirety to see if it’s time for an upgrade.

2) Inspect the Build Up and Mix Your Cleaning Solution

Just for the record, your window screens should be cleaned monthly. If you’re like most homeowners, however, you get around to it at least once a year, which makes the process a bit more intensive due to the build-up of grime and debris.

If you’re lucky, there will just be some dust that you can vacuum and rinse. However, if you notice that there’s more than just dust, you’re going to need to get your cleaning solution and scrub brush ready.

There are several ways to mix your cleaning solution:

• Combine ¼ cup of the liquid dish soap (a few drops will suffice) with ½ gallon of water
• Combine equal parts distilled white vinegar and warm water
• Combine 1-⅔ cups baking soda, ½ cup dish soap, ½ cup water, and 2 tablespoons white vinegar

Once again, soapy water works just as well for regular build-up.

3) Vacuum the Dirty Screens

If you live in an area with a lot of dust, such as a desert location or around wildfire-prone areas, your window screens likely get dusty regardless of how regularly you clean them. Or, you may have been hit with a high pollen count recently — either way, the first thing you want to do is give your window screens a once-over with your vacuum to lift all the loose dirt and debris up and out of the way while they’re dry.

Attach a soft bristle attachment to your vacuum and gently run it across both sides of each window screen.

4) Give the Dirty Screens a Rinse

If you clean your window screens regularly and don’t live in a dusty area, you can likely skip the vacuum step and go straight to the initial rinse using a garden hose. This will help to dislodge any debris that gets trapped within the screens and prep them for scrubbing.

It is crucial to thoroughly rinse the screens after scrubbing to remove all soap residue, ensuring no remnants of soap remain.

5) Get to (Gently) Scrubbing

Now it’s time to clean the window screens with your preferred solution and a soft brush. Depending on how dirty the screens are, you can either use your sponge or soft brush. You can also use both, although that would add an extra step to the process so we suggest using the soft brush from the start.

If you’re using a sponge, gently scrub the screens in circular motions and then give them a good rinse. Pat them dry with a towel.

If you’re using the soft brush, lightly scrub with your solution in circular motions to dislodge the dirt and grime. Frequently dip the brush into the cleaning solution to maintain its effectiveness. Rinse and repeat as necessary, or rinse and repeat using the sponge. Don’t forget to pat the screens dry with a towel.

6) Start in on the Rust

Older window screens that have been exposed to extreme weather will likely develop rust over time, which you’ll want to get rid of along with the dirt and debris. Be careful not to damage the holes in the screens while scrubbing, as this can reduce their functionality. This is where the vinegar comes into play:

• Lay the screens flat and pour the distilled white vinegar over the rusted areas. Let the vinegar set into these areas for up to two hours
• Using a brush and clean water, gently scrub the rusty areas to remove it. Pat them dry with a towel when finished

If this doesn’t work, then you have a case of stubborn rust. For stubborn rust, you can make a paste using about half a cup of baking soda mixed with two-three tablespoons of water until you get a consistency that’s like toothpaste. Apply the paste to the rusty areas and scrub until the rust is gone.

Rinse the screens clean and dry thoroughly with a towel. Repeat the process if necessary. Maintaining window screens in good condition is essential to prolong their lifespan.

Drying and Re-Installation

After cleaning and rinsing your window screens, it’s essential to let them dry completely before re-installing them. This will help prevent any water spots or mineral deposits from forming on the screens. To dry your window screens, simply shake off any excess water and lean them against a house or fence, allowing them to air dry. Once dry, re-install the screens, making sure they are securely fastened to the window frame. Regular drying and re-installation of window screens will help maintain their appearance and functionality.

Window Frame Maintenance

In addition to cleaning window screens, it’s also important to maintain the window frames themselves. Regularly cleaning the window frames with a soft brush and mild dish soap will help remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate and damage the frames. For tougher stains or grime buildup, a mixture of baking soda and water can be used to create a paste that can be applied to the affected area and scrubbed away with a soft-bristled brush. Regular maintenance of window frames will help extend their lifespan and keep them looking their best.

7) Replace the Screens

Once you’ve finished cleaning the window screens, it’s essential to ensure they’re bone dry. Otherwise, they’ll trap more dust and dirt and will be more vulnerable to rusting all over again. So, give them a once over with a dry towel and then allow them to air dry in the sun for a bit. Make sure the entire screen is thoroughly dry before re-installing.

Once the screens are completely dry, you can go ahead and re-install them in their rightful slots. Of course, you’ll want to ensure you’ve cleaned the window frames and tracks as well — which you can focus on while the screens are air drying!

You May Need New Windows

At some point, your window screens will be beyond saving. Window screens are made of delicate material, so regular maintenance and gentle handling are crucial to prolong their lifespan. This may also mean that the entire window (or all of your windows) needs an upgrade. Clean window screens can deliver better visibility and improved airflow in the home.

That’s when you’ll want to call us. Arch Exteriors offers worry-free window installations, and getting new windows means better curb appeal, energy efficiency, and more!

Conclusion and Final Tips

Cleaning window screens is an essential part of maintaining a clean and healthy indoor environment. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your window screens clean and functional, improving the overall appearance and air quality of your home. Remember to clean your window screens regularly, using a soft-bristled brush and mild dish soap, and to dry and re-install them properly to prevent damage. With regular maintenance and care, your window screens will continue to provide a barrier against bugs, dust, and debris, while allowing fresh air to circulate and keeping your home clean and comfortable. For more information on cleaning and maintaining window screens, visit our page or watch our videos on YouTube.