Offering superior insulation, reduced noise pollution, and enhanced security, double glazed windows are an excellent investment for any home.
But just like any other part of your home, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best and functioning efficiently. Thankfully, learning how to clean double glazed windows inside & outside, the rubber seals, and the often tricky area in between the panes, is easier than you think.
How to Clean Double Glazed Windows from Inside
Cleaning the inside of your double glazed windows is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail to avoid streaks and smudges. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean double glazed windows from inside:
Supplies needed:
- vacuum
- bucket of warm water
- mild dish soap or white vinegar
- soft microfibre cloth or sponge for cleaning
- squeegee
- microfiber cloth for drying
- Remove Dust and Loose Dirt
Use a vacuum to gently remove any dust or loose dirt from the window surface. This prevents scratching the glass when you start cleaning.
2. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
As you learn how to clean double glazed windows, you’ll discover how avoiding harsh chemicals is crucial as they can be damaging to the glass, its seal, and frame components.
Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water in your bucket. One teaspoon of mild dish soap per litre of warm water is an ideal ratio that provides enough cleaning power to effectively remove dirt and grime without being too harsh on the frame materials.
If you want to opt for a more eco-friendly route, try using a mixture of 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts water instead.
3. Clean the Window Surface
Dip your soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the window surface in circular motions to avoid streaks. Pay special attention to any spots or stains. For any stubborn stains, let the mixture sit a bit longer.
4. Use a Squeegee for a Streak-Free Finish
Starting at the top of the window, use a squeegee to remove the cleaning solution. Wipe the squeegee blade with a clean cloth after each pass to avoid streaks.
5. Dry and Polish
Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture and polish the glass to a sparkling finish.
How to Clean Double Glazed Windows Outside
Cleaning the outside of double glazed windows can be a bit more challenging due to their exposure to the elements. Cleaning the outside of windows on a lower floor is often easy to do by yourself. But if you have to reach higher windows, consider calling cleaning experts instead to ensure safety.
Supplies needed:
- hose or bucket with water
- mild dish soap or white vinegar
- soft microfibre cloth or sponge for cleaning
- squeegee
- microfibre cloth for drying
Here’s how to clean double glazed windows outside effectively:
- Choose the Right Time
Clean your windows on a cloudy day or when the sun isn’t directly shining on them. This prevents the cleaning solution from drying too quickly and leaving streaks before you even get to finish the task.
2. Rinse with Water
Use a hose or a bucket of water to rinse the window surface and remove any loose dirt or debris.
3. Apply Cleaning Solution
Mix a mild dish soap with warm water (same ratio of 1 teaspoon of mild detergent per litre of warm water) and apply it to the window surface using a soft microfibre cloth or sponge.
Alternatively, a mixture of 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts water is an eco-friendly solution that can be used for the outside of windows as well.
4. Scrub Gently
Gently scrub the window surface to remove any stubborn dirt or stains. Be careful not to scratch the glass.
5. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the window thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a squeegee to remove excess water and dry with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.
How to Clean Rubber Seals on Double Glazed Windows
The rubber seals on your windows could use some TLC too! These elements are crucial for maintaining their insulating properties.
Supplied needed:
- mild dish soap
- bucket with warm water
- soft microfibre cloth or sponge for cleaning
- soft microfibre cloth for drying
- rubber conditioner
Here’s how to clean rubber seals on double glazed windows:
1. Inspect the Seals
Before cleaning, inspect the seals for any signs of damage or wear. If the seals are damaged, they may need to be replaced.
2. Use a Mild Cleaning Solution
Mix the same ratio of 1 teaspoon of mild dish soap per litre of warm water. You’ll want to avoid using harsh chemicals as they can degrade the rubber.
Here’s a pro tip: The go-to mixture of vinegar and water won’t work for this step as the acidity can actually degrade rubber when directly applied.
3. Clean the Seals
Dip a soft microfibre cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently clean the rubber seals. Pay special attention to any areas with mould or mildew.
4. Rinse and Dry
Rinse the seals with clean water to remove any soap residue. Use a dry cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture.
5. Apply a Rubber Conditioner
To keep the seals supple and prevent cracking, apply a rubber conditioner or protectant. This helps to extend the life of the seals.
How to Clean in Between Double Glazed Windows
While some sources may claim that you can clean the inside of double pane windows by drilling small holes and then pouring alcohol down or adding desiccants into the holes, this isn’t recommended as it can seriously damage your windows.
If you notice any fogging in between the panes of your double glazed windows, try using a dehumidifier in your home first.. If that doesn’t work, call a professional to inspect your windows and identify the cause of these issues.
Need New Double Glazed Windows for Your Home?
Are you looking into how to clean double glazed windows because you plan on purchasing these fixtures for your home soon and wanted to know what the maintenance process looks like?
Look no further than Windows Tech—for 10+ years we’ve been providing Melbourne homes with the industry’s finest double glazed fixtures—whether that’s tilt and turn windows, sliding windows, awning windows, casement windows, or fixed windows.
Contact us today to request a quote—and enjoy a 10% price-beat guarantee!
Learn more about double glazed windows:
- Cost of Double Glazed Windows
- Does Double Glazing Reduce Noise?
- The Role of Double Glazed Windows in Enhancing Home Security Measures
