How to Wash Single Hung Windows

Washing windows is one of those household tasks that can pose a bit of a challenge for the homeowner. This is especially true for single hung windows since one of the frames does not tilt for easier access. You will need window cleaner or a spray bottle with water and paper towels or newspaper. Call a professional if you do not have the right tools for the job or could fall and get injured. Use safety precautions.

1. Release the latch that locks the window. Next, release the upper window frame from its tracks at the top by pushing the window up a couple of inches and use the release mechanism. This mechanism will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. There may be sliding tabs that are pushed toward each other. This will allow you to tilt the pane in toward you where you can spray and wipe the glass.


2. Use your favorite glass cleaner or a spray bottle of water and spray the glass down lightly. The more water or cleaner you spray on, the longer it takes to remove it all. In cases where there is heavy dirt, allow the cleaner a moment or two to soak into the dirt. Take care to get into the corners and along the edges where dirt is harder to remove. You may need to perform this action more than once if there is heavy dirt.


3. Seat the window frame back into its tracks by pushing it in until you hear it click or you may have to use the release mechanism to reseat it. Do ensure it is back in its tracks. Slide the window up, spray and repeat the cleaning process.


4. Clean the immovable window frame. Remember that if you spray the outside pane while you are seated facing it from inside, the spray can come back onto your face. With the bottom pane up all the way, go ahead and spray the outside of the upper window. When cleaning the outside window from the inside, you will need to be flexible and seat yourself on the windowsill to clean. After it is sprayed, situate yourself on the windowsill to reach it for wiping. Hold onto the inside wall for support if needed while wiping. Repeat if needed.


5. Finish the last window inside or you can flip this process by doing the outside portion first and finishing on the inside.


6. If you are cleaning the outside of the windows from the outdoors, you can use a sprayer with soap solution and a scrubber on a telescoping wand to reach it. This is suitable for first floor windows. For second floor windows, a soap solution product can be attached to a garden hose, sprayed on and then rinsed off.