The changing colors of the leaves in autumn usher in more than just a new season. It’s a time for football, bonfires, and pumpkin spice everything. Fall also is the perfect time to take care of a few essential home chores, including window cleaning before the hectic days of the holiday season arrive.

At United Window Cleaning, we know that from the onset of autumn through the new year can be one of the busiest times of the year. That’s why we’ve put together this residential window cleaning checklist.

1. Vacuum/Dust Blinds and Shades

Window blinds and shades of all materials and styles collect dust regularly. Remove the dust and it helps cut down on allergens in the home, especially important during the colder months when you spend more time inside. A vacuum with extendable wand and soft brush attachment may work better than a dust rag. The vacuum will trap more dust than the rag and help keep it from wafting into the room.

2. Wash/Dry Clean Drapes and Curtains

Drapes and curtains collect dust just like blinds and shades. Fall is a great time to take them down and refreshen everything with a thorough washing. For those materials that can’t be tossed into the washer, dry cleaning gets the job done as well.

3. Clean Interior Window Glass

Window cleaning doesn’t mean only the outside panes of glass. The inside glass also becomes dusty and dirty throughout daily living. With pets in the house, it’s likely there are nose prints as well. If cleaning the interior windows on your own, opt for a residue and streak-free glass cleaner plus dust-free microfiber cloth. However, this is one chore that can be done quickly and efficiently by professionals. Professional window cleaning isn’t just for the outside.

4. Wash Window Sills and Tracks

Dirt, dust, and other particulates accumulate in the window tracks and should be cleaned at least twice a year. This is also a good time to clean the window sills as well. Soapy water and a rag can get it done, but you can opt to have this chore handled by professionals when hiring a window cleaning team.

5. Remove and Clean Window Screens

It’s often surprising how big a difference it makes when the window screens are clean. It’s an important step in window cleaning that shouldn’t be ignored. If outdoor space is available, a garden hose can be used to clean the screens, simply spray off the dirt and grime and allow to dry in the sun. In addition, be sure to check for any tears and replace any screens as needed.

6. Clean and Insert Storm Windows

Before the temperatures dip too far, storm windows should be cleaned and inserted. Whether triple-track or piggyback storm windows, United Window Cleaning can take care of this chore for you. If you opt to do this on your own, be sure to keep track which storm window goes in which track after it’s been cleaned. Some wood storm windows may not be removable, especially in an older home. If this is case, then they’ll need to be cleaned from the outside.

7. Check for Leaks and Cracks

A visual inspection usually can reveal if there are any cracks in the windows, and if you can see daylight around the window frame it’s likely there’s a leak. Caulk and weatherstripping can help reduce leaks, but cracks may mean a replacement window.

8. Clean Exterior Window Glass

Exterior window cleaning requires materials and equipment such as clean cloths, window cleaning products, squeegees, and often a ladder and/or extension poles to reach upper levels. Consider leaving this to the professionals from United Window Cleaning. We can take care of your home, any size, thoroughly cleaning every window with effective and safe products.

United Window Cleaning serves the greater Cincinnati area, offering a full range of services from window cleaning to skylights and even mirrors, chandeliers, and coach lights. Call us today to schedule an appointment.