To clean window screens effectively, follow these steps:
- Remove the screens carefully from the window frames to avoid damage. Note which screen belongs to which window if cleaning multiple screens
- Rinse the screens with a hose outdoors or under a shower faucet indoors to remove loose dirt and debris. Use a gentle spray setting to avoid damaging the mesh
- Prepare a cleaning solution using warm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish detergent or a mixture of one part white vinegar to three parts water. Some also use a 50/50 vinegar-water mix or add a small amount of ammonia for very dirty screens (wear gloves if using ammonia)
- Scrub both sides of the screen gently with a soft-bristled brush or a T-bar scrubber dipped in the cleaning solution. Be thorough but gentle to avoid tearing the mesh
- Rinse the screens again with water to remove all soap or cleaning solution residue
- Dry the screens by wiping them with a clean, dry cloth and then air-drying them completely in a sunny or well-ventilated area before reinstalling
- Reinstall the screens carefully back into their original window frames
Additional tips:
- If you prefer not to remove the screens, you can vacuum them with a brush attachment and wipe them with a vinegar-water solution using a microfiber cloth
- Clean your window screens once per season or more frequently during allergy season to reduce pollen and dust buildup
- For heavily soiled screens, consider specialized products like "Screen Magic" for easier cleaning without removal
This method helps maintain good indoor air quality by removing trapped pollen, dust, and mold spores, and prolongs the life of your screens
