Do you have double hung windows in your home? If you’re not sure, double hung windows have two sashes, an upper sash and a lower sash, that both slide up and down in the window frame. Double hung windows have many benefits from being easy to clean to allowing better airflow. 

Although it is supposed to be easy, if you’ve never done it before you may not know how to clean double hung windows. The good news is that it really is easy, and this simple tutorial will help you to understand what to do and how to ensure your windows are not damaged in the process. 

 

Step by Step Directions for Cleaning Double Hung Windows

One of the best things about double hung windows is that they are designed to tilt inwards so that you can clean them from the inside. The key to tilting your windows for cleaning is positioning and releasing. Here’s how it’s done:

  1. Unlock the window by flipping the middle latch or two side latches, depending on the type of window lock you have. 
  2. Slide the bottom sash up 6-8 inches from the window sill.  
  3. Locate the release latches and slide them inward toward the middle of the window.
  4. Slowly tilt the window toward you and down to gently rest against the window sill. 
  5. Slide the top sash down 6-8 inches from the top of the window frame. 
  6. Locate the release latches and slide them inward toward the middle of the window. 
  7. Gently tilt the top sash toward you and hold it parallel to the floor. 
  8. Clean the top sash first on both sides of the glass.
  9. Tilt it back into the window frame and carefully snap it back into place on the track. 
  10. Clean the bottom sash on both sides of the glass.
  11. Tilt it back into the window frame and carefully snap it back into place on the track. 
  12. Slide the top sash back up to the top of the window frame and the bottom sash down to the bottom window sill and lock the window. 

You can repeat these steps for all of your double hung windows. You may also want to get a dust buster or a paper towel and clean out any dirt, dust, and debris that may have settled into your window sill while the bottom sash is still up. 

 

Cleaning Products for Double Hung Windows

Now that you know how to clean double hung windows from a mechanical standpoint, the next step is knowing what products to use to get a clear, streakless shine. 

  • Windex and Similar Products. Windex is made specifically for cleaning windows. It wipes off clean and leaves no streaks. Other window products that are similar will usually work just as well. 
  • Vinegar. If you’re interested in a natural cleaning product, vinegar works well on windows and won’t leave streaks. Vinegar is also effective for eliminating mold and mildew. 
  • Soft Cloth or Paper Towels. With your chosen cleaning solution you’ll want to use a soft cloth or quality paper towels. Be sure the cloth you use will not leave lint behind. If you choose to use paper towels, be sure to choose soft ones that won’t leave paper particles behind on your windows. 
  • Microfiber Cloth. Keep lint and paper towel particles from getting stuck to the glass by using a microfiber cloth instead. There are cleaning cloths made specifically for windows that won’t leave lint behind and won’t scratch the glass. 

 

Replace Your Old Windows with Modern Zen Windows 

Are you tired of the hassle of cleaning your old windows? In addition to being difficult to clean, old windows also lack insulation, making them an energy drain in your home. Now that you know how to clean double hung windows and you see how easy it is, are you ready for an upgrade?  Window replacement by Zen Windows is an affordable solution to your old window problems. Our windows are easy to clean, energy efficient, and stylish. Upgrading windows adds value to your home and saves you money on your energy bill each month. 

Call (763) 286-6871 today for a free estimate or get a quote in just 5 minutes. We look forward to replacing your old windows with our new energy efficient, easy to clean windows.