how to clean window tracks

How to Clean Window Tracks

If you've been neglecting to clean your window tracks, you're not alone. Luckily, you can clean them (and the sills) like a pro, in no time.

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Introduction

No special equipment is needed for this task, but a specialty brush, similar to the one shown here does come in handy.

Tools Required

Materials Required

All-purpose spray cleaner
Baking soda
Dish detergent
White vinegar

Project step-by-step (6)

Step 2

Wipe the Surfaces

Use disposable cleaning wipes or paper towels dampened with cleaning spray (fill a spray bottle with warm water and add a few drops of dish detergent) to clean the surfaces of the tracks. You can use cloth rags, but plan to toss them when you're finished (the gunk in the tracks can be impossible to wash out of cleaning cloths).

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Step 3

Use Something Pointy for Narrow Areas

chopsticks

Wrap a disposable wipe or slightly damp paper towel or thin cloth around a narrow putty, butter knife or chopstick for use in corners, crevices, nooks and crannies. (A disposable wipe is less likely to shred than a damp paper towel.) If dirt is really stuck on, spritz with vinegar and then sprinkle with baking soda. Let this sit for a few minutes, then scrub. An old toothbrush and/or cotton swabs may also be helpful in loosening and removing dirt from tight areas. Use cotton swabs to clean your computer keyboard, too!

Step 5

Clean the Windowsills, While You're At It

A windowsill is the area on which the window rests when it's closed. If there is loose dirt and debris on the sill, suck it up with a vacuum. Then, fill a spray bottle with warm water and add a few drops of dish detergent. Lightly spritz the solution onto a clean microfiber cloth, then wipe the windowsills. Don't be surprised if they are really dirty!

Note: The window trim that sticks out into the room, like a little shelf, is called the stool. Many people mistakenly call the stool the windowsill. The piece of trim underneath the stool is called the apron. Ever wonder if you could replace a window yourself? The answer is, yes! Here's how.

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