Cleaning Windows and Patio Doors
This is a step-by-step guide on how to clean Milgard fiberglass or vinyl windows and patio doors. It covers cleaning the frame, glass, and screen, as well as window cleaning tips and cautions.
Supplies for Cleaning Windows
First, gather your supplies, including rubber gloves, ammonia-free window glass cleaner, mild soap (such as dish soap), a cleaning pad or soft sponge, paper towels, a soft cloth and a soft paint-brush which is only used for cleaning. You can make your own streak-free window glass cleaner with 2 cups water, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap. Put in a spray bottle and shake to mix.
How to Clean your Windows or Patio Doors
To clean vinyl or fiberglass frames, first remove debris such as leaves, bird droppings, or sand with a soft brush or a cleaning pad. Next wash the frame surface with warm water a mild soap and a soft cloth, such as a microfiber cloth. Never use a dry cloth as this may scratch the finish.
To clean the glass, first spray a mild soap and water mix or an ammonia-free glass cleaner on the glass. Dry the glass cleaner or soapy water with a soft cloth.
After wiping, ensure there is no condensation on the inside of the window pane. If this happens, the seal has been damaged and the glass may need replacing. Contact Dick’s Rancho Glass for glass replacement or repair.
To clean the screen, first use a soft brush or lint roller. For deeper clean, use a brush or soft cloth with soapy water and gently brush the screen. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth.
Cautions in Cleaning Windows and Patio Doors
Never use any of the following materials to clean your window or patio door as they may damage the glass frame or insulating seal:
- petroleum-based cleaners
- caustic chemicals
- razor blades
- putty knives
- abrasive pads or scrub brushes
- high pressure water hoses
If you have a wood near your windows, take care that no water gets on the wood or is allowed to remain on the wood as this will deteriorate and damage any wood, including wood window sills or wood battens.
Additional Window Cleaning Tips
- Use a vacuum hose to pre-clean sliding door tracks and horizontal slider windows.
- To clean large windows or for the exterior of windows, extend your reach with a broom handle and paper towel.
- For a particularly grimy (non-wood) window sill or track, sprinkle a little baking soda, spray with vinegar, and wipe down with a small foam brush and a microfiber towel.
- Use a Lint Roller to clean the window screens.
- Clean wooden blinds with kitchen tongs wrapped in microfiber cloth.
Cleaning and maintaining your MILGARD windows and doors is easy. In the short video below, see a few additional simple maintenance steps that will help ensure your windows’ longevity.
For video tutorial, see How to Clean a Milgard Window or Patio Door.