Many of us would prefer that a fly screen clean itself, but the reality is we’ve got to do it.

For removable fly screens, it’s simple enough: just remove them from their casings and gently rinse them with a garden hose.

For fixed screens, you can gently use a damp cloth soaked in warm, soapy water.

In between cleanings, use a handheld vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove grit and dirt.

(While you’re at it, don’t forget to clean the rest of your home — or get a cleaning service to clean for you.)

Here’s how to clean fly screens — removable, retractable or fixed — easy-peasy.

Are Fly Screens and Security Screens the Same?

No, fly screens and security screens are not identical.

While both protect your home, fly screens primarily keep out insects and bugs, while security screens are designed to deter burglars.

A cleaning professional will tell you that the mesh used in security screens is usually thicker and more robust than fly screens, which may affect how you clean them.

You might also call a fly screen an “insect screen” since that’s what it does!

Why Clean Fly Screens?

Fly screens can accumulate dust, pollen, and other pollutants, affecting the air quality in your home.

Over time, dirt buildup can also reduce visibility and the amount of natural light entering your home.

Clean fly screens are a benefit – they prevent pests from coming in and lessen the amount of dirt entering your home.

In some rural cases, they can even prevent birds from flying inside.

On the other hand, dirty fly screens can act as a health hazard in your home.

They prevent clean airflow and can collect dust, which then enters your house.

They also visually look unappealing, with dust clinging to the wires.

If you are a tenant renting a unit or home, clean fly screens are necessary for your rental property inspection.

What Supplies Do I Need to Clean Fly Screens?

Cleaning fly screens starts with having the right tools on hand.

• Soft-bristled brush or handheld vacuum: This will help remove loose dust and debris from the screen before wet cleaning.
• Mild dish soap: A gentle cleaner that won’t damage or discolour your screens.
• Warm water: To be mixed with soap for a gentle cleaning solution.
• Soft cloth or sponge: Preferably lint-free, to apply the cleaning solution and scrub the screens.
• Garden hose or spray bottle: Useful for rinsing off the soap solution, especially for removable screens.
• Soft towel or microfiber cloth: For drying the screens after washing. This won’t leave water spots or streaks.
• (Optional) Old toothbrush: This can be useful for getting into the corners or particularly stubborn spots that a larger brush or cloth might miss.

How to Clean Removable Fly Screens Effectively

Removable fly screens offer the convenience of easier cleaning access.

With the right cleaning approach, your fly screens can give you an unobstructed view while keeping the pesky bugs out.

Preparation

First, remove the screens gently from their frames.

Lay them on a flat surface, preferably outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

If you can’t clean them outdoors, place towels on the floor and put the insect screen frames there.

Brush the removable screens

Use a soft brush to remove any loose dust or debris.

This means you won’t push dirt further into the screen when you move on to wet cleaning.

Mix a cleaning solution

In a large basin or bucket, mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.

Stir until it forms a soapy solution.

Wash

Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution and gently scrub the screen.

Make sure to get into all the corners and crevices.

Rinse the screens

Gently spray the screens with a garden hose, ensuring all the soap gets washed away.

Let your clean fly screen dry

Allow the screens to air dry completely. Once dry, reattach them to their frames.

Clean the window sills and tracks

While the screens are removed, don’t forget to clean the door tracks and window sills! 

Use an old toothbrush or a vacuum with a narrow nozzle.

How to Clean Retractable Fly Screens

Retractable fly screens are a modern solution to old problems, but they still accumulate dirt over time.

Because their design is unique, you’ll need to do a slightly different cleaning method.

Extend the retractable fly screen

Pull out the retractable screen to its full extent.

Make sure it’s taut but not overly stretched.

Vacuum the dirty fly screen

Use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to get rid of surface dirt and debris.

Wipe with a soft, damp cloth

Mix warm water and mild detergent and soak a soft cloth.

Wring out excess water from the cloth, and gently wipe the fly screen down.

This helps in removing any stubborn dirt or grime.

Let dry

Allow the retractable screen to air dry.

Check that the screen is fully dry before retracting to prevent mould or mildew buildup.

How to Clean Fixed Fly Screens

Ever looked outside your door only to have your view blocked by dirty fly screens?

Well, if you follow our steps below, it’ll be the last time you ever see that.

Dust your fly screen

Start by dusting off the surface with a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt or debris.

Prepare a cleaning solution

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water.

Use a soft cloth

Soak a soft cloth in the solution and wring out any excess water.

Wipe down the fly screen

Gently clean the screen, ensuring you cover every inch of it. 

Use a soft toothbrush for corners or stubborn spots.

Gently rinse your fly screen

If accessible, you can use a spray bottle filled with water to rinse off the soapy solution gently, or you can dampen a clean cloth with water and wipe down the screen.

Dry the fly screens thoroughly

Allow the screen to air dry, or use a clean, dry towel to pat down any excess moisture.

How Often Should You Clean Fly Screens?

Generally, you should clean fly screens every 3–6 months.

However, if you live in an area with high pollution or have trees shedding pollen nearby, you might need to do it more frequently.

FAQs About Cleaning Fly Screens

How do you clean fly screens without removing them?

You can use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment to get rid of loose debris from fly screens.

Then, wipe down with a damp cloth soaked in warm water and mild dish soap.

What is the best thing to clean window screens with?

A mixture of warm water and a gentle dish detergent works best for most window screens.

For tougher stains, a cleaning professional might suggest specific screen cleaners.

Can you use WD-40 to clean fly screens?

While WD-40 can be used for various cleaning tasks, it’s not recommended for fly screens.

It might leave a residue that can attract more dust and dirt. Always stick to mild soapy water for best results.

Let Your Worries Fly Away

With the right tools and methods, you can keep your screens clear and functional.

Don’t let dirty screens hold you back; let your worries fly away, and enjoy a clearer view of the world outside!

The post How To Clean Fly Screens And Doors appeared first on Maid2Match.

However, like other parts of our homes, they need regular cleaning and maintenance to maintain their appearance and functionality.

Below are some tips and guidelines on keeping them in top shape and when it might be time to call in a cleaning professional.

How Often Should You Clean Your Security Screens?

Ideally, security screens should be cleaned every 3–6 months.

But if your home is near the beach, a busy road, or an area with a lot of dust, it might require monthly to weekly cleaning.

Frequent cleaning not only ensures a clear view but also prevents the accumulation of dust, dirt, and salt, which can corrode the screens over time.

What Supplies Do I Need to Clean Security Screens?

Cleaning security screens doesn’t require a plethora of specialised tools or products.

Most of what you need can be found in your home or easily acquired from a local store.

Here’s a rundown of the cleaning supplies you can use:

• Mild detergent: A gentle soap or mild detergent mixed with water will help dissolve and remove dirt and grime without damaging your screens. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can deteriorate the mesh.
• Bucket: You’ll need a bucket to mix the cleaning solution (water and detergent) and to dip your cloth or sponge easily.
• Soft cloth or sponge: Choose a non-abrasive cloth or sponge to prevent scratching or damaging the screen material.
• Soft-bristled brush: A soft-bristled brush can be more effective than a cloth or sponge for tougher spots or stains.
• Garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle: This will be used for rinsing off the soap and dirt from the screens. A gentle spray ensures that the water pressure won’t damage the screens.
• Clean, dry towels: While air drying is an option, wiping them down can prevent water spots and ensure a clearer view.
• Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment: If you’re cleaning window screens or mesh screens, a vacuum with a brush attachment is perfect for removing dust and cobwebs without detaching them.
• Ladder or step stool: If you’re cleaning window screens that are out of reach, you’ll need a sturdy ladder or step stool to access them safely.
• Rubber gloves: While optional, these can protect your hands from dirt and grime and prevent smudging.
• Protective goggles or eyewear: Also optional, but these can keep any dirt and debris from falling into your eyes.

Once you’ve gathered all these supplies, you’re set to begin the cleaning process.

How to Clean Security Screen Doors

Security screen doors, our homes’ first line of defence, are frequently exposed to the elements and daily wear and tear.

Regularly cleaning security screen doors ensures they look aesthetically pleasing and function correctly.

Remove Loose Dirt

Start using a soft brush to gently remove loose dirt and debris from your security screen door.

Always brush from top to bottom so the dust falls to the ground.

Create a Cleaning Solution

Grab a bucket and mix warm water with a few drops of mild detergent.

Gently Scrub

Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the screen in a circular motion.

Again, go from top to bottom and scrub any corners and the locking mechanism as well.

Rinse

If you have a nearby tap, grab your hose and gently spray to rinse the security door from top to bottom.

However, you can use another bucket with clean water and another brush to rinse your security screen doors.

You may need to do a few passes if you opt to rinse with the bucket and brush method.

Dry

Wipe the clean security screen with a soft, dry cloth or let it air dry.

How to Clean Security Window Screens

Security window screens provide an added layer of security and ventilation.

Given their role, they often collect dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.

A routine cleaning routine guarantees a clear view and ensures that the fresh air coming in is free of contaminants.

Dust Off

Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and cobwebs.

Alternatively, you can use a microfiber duster.

Prepare Cleaning Mixture

As with cleaning security screen doors, mix warm water with mild detergent in a bucket.

Scrub Gently

Use a soft cloth to scrub the screens. For tougher stains, a soft-bristled brush might be necessary.

Rinse and Dry

Rinse with clean water, then dry with a towel or let it air dry. The choice is yours.

Just make sure you dry the window screen properly so that you won’t damage its powder coating or metal parts.

How to Make Your Security Screens Last

Investing in security screens is a decision that speaks to both safety and aesthetics.

Like any investment, you’ll want to care for it properly and ensure its longevity.

By understanding the factors that can wear security screens down and how to counteract them, you can ensure that your screens remain durable and effective for years to come.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Dirt and grime can build up on security screens.

Clean them every 3–6 months with a mild detergent and a soft brush.

This prevents buildup, which might corrode or damage the screen over time.

Inspect for Rust

If your security screens are made of metal, they may be susceptible to rust, especially in humid climates.

Regularly inspect them and treat any early signs of rust with a rust inhibitor.

Lubricate Moving Parts

If your screen has moving parts or hinges, ensure they operate smoothly.

Apply a silicone-based lubricant every few months to keep them from getting stiff or rusty.

Replace Damaged Mesh

Over time, the mesh in security screens can become damaged. If you notice any holes or tears, address them immediately.

Depending on the extent, you might patch them or replace the entire mesh.

Check and Tighten Fastenings

The screws and fasteners that hold your security screens in place can loosen over time. 

Give them a quick check every few months and tighten any that seem loose.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

When cleaning, avoid bleach or other harsh chemicals.

These can degrade the material of the screen or discolour them.

Educate Household Members

Ensure that everyone in your household knows how to open, close, and lock the screens properly.

Rough handling can lead to unnecessary wear and tear.

Professional Inspection

Once a year, consider having a professional come in and inspect your screens.

They might catch issues you’ve missed and can provide expert advice on maintenance.

FAQs About Security Screen Cleaning

How do you clean security mesh screens?

Security mesh screens can be delicate and tedious to clean if it’s your first time doing so.

Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris.

Then, use a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to wipe them down.

Always be gentle to prevent damaging your security screens.

How do you clean screens without removing them?

For screens that are hard to remove, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean off dust and debris.

Then, gently wipe the security doors or screens with a cloth dampened in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.

Make sure you rinse the cloth frequently to avoid redistributing the dirt.

Can you use WD-40 to clean security screens?

If you have a specific stain on your security screen that you believe WD-40 might help remove (such as adhesive residue or a sticky substance), you could apply it sparingly to that particular area using a cloth.

After treating the spot, clean the screen with a mild detergent solution to remove any WD-40 residue.

For regular cleaning of security screens, it’s best to stick to mild soapy water and a soft brush or cloth.

This method is effective, safe, and doesn’t leave any residues behind.

If you’re facing persistent issues with your screens or need help cleaning security screens, consulting with a cleaning professional or security screen manufacturer is your best bet.

Are fly screens and security screens the same thing?

No, although they can sometimes be confused due to their similar appearance.

Both fly screens and security screens cover windows and doors and keep out unwanted pests.

But their primary functions, materials, and characteristics differ significantly.

When choosing a screen, it’s essential to consider the immediate need — whether it’s simply to keep bugs out or to provide your property with an added layer of security.

Security Screen Cleaning Made Easier

Security screens, doors, and windows play a pivotal role in our homes, combining safety with the joy of fresh air and clear views.

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping them in pristine condition.

Cleaning them becomes straightforward and efficient with the right approach, tools and techniques.

Always remember, when we care for our security screens, they can protect and serve us better in the long run.

The post How To Clean Security Screens, Doors And Windows appeared first on Maid2Match.

No, you can’t ignore that – it’s time to start washing windows.

Skip the commercial window cleaners and just use a solution of white vinegar and water for streak-free windows. For the tracks and sills, mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid or detergent into water. To clean easy-to-reach windows, you can just use a sponge or clean cloth. For larger windows or hard-to-reach ones, try a squeegee!

You don’t need to clean all the windows in one go, but you do need to wash windows regularly. Here’s your handy guide on how to clean windows with a streak-free finish.

Make Your Own Window Cleaning Solution

You can use glass cleaner, but it’s better to avoid harsh chemicals. Meanwhile, window cleaning solutions with ammonia or alcohol can leave streaks, or even a film that attracts dust.

Instead, just use white vinegar! Mix 1 part vinegar to 10 parts warm water, then put the window cleaner solution in a spray bottle. This will give you a streak-free finish when you clean.

Vinegar has an acidic composition, which means it can break down the streaks and smudges that accumulate on your window surfaces.

How Often to Clean Windows

For high-traffic or highly-exposed areas, such as the living room, bathroom, and kitchen windows, clean every 1–2 weeks.

For other living areas such as the bedroom, you can clean every 3–4 months.

The Best Way to Clean Windows

To clean your windows, you’ll need the following:

• Microfibre cloths, soft sponges, or paper towels
• Vinegar cleaning solution in a spray bottle
• Clean water

Once you’re armed and ready, it’s time to get your windows clean.

1. Wipe

Before you wet the surface, use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt build-up. This will remove any loose dirt on the surface that could smudge or scratch as you clean.

2. Spray

Saturate the entire surface with your vinegar window cleaner. You can also opt to work in small areas at a time, but this could be less efficient.

Avoid getting the solution on any wood, vinyl, or fibreglass frames since you could discolour the finish. You can be extra careful by saturating the sponge or cloth directly instead of the window surface.

3. Clean

Use a lint-free towel or cloth to work the window cleaning solution over the entire surface, especially the dirty spots. Work quickly so the mixture doesn’t evaporate and streak the glass.

4. Rinse

You can either “rinse” with a damp cloth, or just directly dry the window with a clean cloth. Work quickly to prevent streaks, and do one window at a time.

Of course, the easiest and most low-effort way to clean windows is to leave it up to expert house cleaners! They know all the tricks of the trade and can get your window glass sparkling (plus other glass surfaces such as shower screens).

Cleaning Windows with a Squeegee

A squeegee blade is excellent for cleaning large dirty windows. Again, make a cleaning solution using one part distilled vinegar to ten parts warm water, but this time mix it in a small bucket.

Dip a clean sponge or squeegee into the mixture and saturate your windows. Act quickly to avoid the solution evaporating and leaving streaks.

Then use a clean, damp squeegee to wipe the solution off the windows. Go top to bottom, one side to another for a more efficient clean. And of course, wipe off the squeegee in between swipes!

Cleaning the Outside of a Window

Much like cleaning the inside of a window, you can use a microfibre cloth or soft sponge to clean the outside. Use the same vinegar mixture (1:10 vinegar to water) and spray the outside.

You’ll want to work more quickly since the outer surface is more exposed to sunlight, so the liquids will evaporate quicker. Rinse the window surface, then dry.

How to Clean Unreachable Windows

If you can’t reach a window – such as one that’s high up – try using a long-handled squeegee or sponge mop. Use one to saturate the surface with your cleaning solutions, then another to dry. Be careful and make sure to stretch in between so you don’t strain your shoulders!

Cleaning Window Tracks and Sills

Use an old toothbrush to loosen the dirt and dust from the window tracks, then use a window vac or crevice nozzle attachment to pick up all the debris. Finish with a clean cloth to wipe the last of the dirt.

For cleaning window sills, you can just use soapy water! This is especially useful for vinyl or wooden frames, which can be discoloured by vinegar cleaners. Dip a damp cloth in the soapy water and wipe down the sill, then dry with a dry cloth afterwards.

Tips for Cleaning Windows

No matter how tough the cleaning process is, do not use a razor or any kind of metal or plastic blade to scrape off stuck-on material or stubborn marks. This can permanently scratch and damage your windows.

You can use a rubber blade to remove stubborn dirt or other build-up.

Always use a lint-free cloth while cleaning. You can also use paper towels if a microfibre cloth isn’t available. Never use steel wool.

Channel your inner Karate Kid and wax on, wax off – meaning rub in circles or multiple directions! This will help minimise the streaking on windows and other glass surfaces.

And of course, rinse with clear water and wipe to remove any marks.

Now that you know how to clean windows, you can step back and admire your streak-free glass – and the view beyond. Just remember to clean again when the surface starts getting dirty!

The post How To Clean Windows appeared first on Maid2Match.

Here’s the quickest answer from a clean home aficionado: they’re all oddly satisfying! 

These finer details make life so much easier, no doubt about it. You also find that you move quicker and feel happier with them around. When your sliding glass door is gliding easily about, there’s coffee brewing in the machine, and the sun is shining just about right, it’s hard not to smile and feel good about the day.

Why clean sliding door tracks?

Whether it’s your own house or you’re renting from a landlord, having clean sliding glass door tracks is a must for all homes.  Keeping your sliding door tracks well-maintained helps them (and you!) to function better. Cleaning becomes easier in the long run as well. Who doesn’t want that?

While a dirty sliding glass door track isn’t noticeable at first glance, finding it difficult to open and close your sliding glass doors will bring the issue to your attention.

Patio sliding doors, in particular, can get dirty over time with fallen leaves, soil and dust, and even the occasional critter. These debris can get stuck in between your door tracks and cause them to gum up. Not something you want to encounter on a beautiful sunny day when you try to get outside to soak up the warm sun in your yard.

Sometimes you even have to tug hard to get your sliding glass doors to open or close. Trust me, this never ends well. At all. To prevent accidents from happening, it’s important to keep your sliding door tracks free from any grime and debris.

Best way to clean sliding glass door tracks

To clean your sliding glass door tracks, try this easy and simple method.

Start by vacuuming the debris stuck on the tracks and its crevices.

Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray your homemade cleaning solution on the stained areas to loosen the dirt.

Soak the moisture with paper towels, then wipe away the residue. Finish off with a dry microfibre cloth then allow to air dry.

When cleaning sliding door tracks, you will need:

• Vacuum cleaner
• Water
• Gentle household detergent or soap
• White vinegar
• Dry clean cloth
• Clean paper towels
• Toothbrush or small brush with soft bristles
• Tweezers
• Adhesive tape
• Butter knife

Step 1. Vacuum dust and dirt from your sliding door track.

Start cleaning by removing large dirt from your sliding glass door track. If you’re feeling a little squeamish, you can use tweezers to remove trapped leaves and insects.

Using your trusty vacuum cleaner, remove the remaining grime and debris.

Step 2. Apply cleaner on the surface of your sliding door track.

Vinegar is an effective cleaning agent for aluminium. Make your own sliding door track cleaner by mixing equal parts vinegar and water. Place the solution in a spray bottle, then spritz a small amount on the area you want to clean. Wipe the residual dirt off with a piece of dry microfibre cloth.

You can opt to use warm soapy water to clean the tracks if this suits you better. Mix a small amount of gentle detergent or cleaner with warm water. To spot clean, pour a tiny amount of soapy water onto the dirty areas. This will help loosen the stains. 

Step 3. Scrub the dirt with a toothbrush.

If there are still hard-to-remove stains, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove them. Gently scrub the dirt off using the brush, taking care not to damage the coating of the aluminium. When cleaning with a toothbrush, brush using gentle, repeated motions until all the debris is gone. No different at all from when you’re brushing your teeth! Try to avoid scrubbing harshly and using a hard steel or abrasive brush when removing grime. 

Step 4. Dry the door tracks. 

Put a good amount of paper towels on the tracks to soak in the moisture and dirt. You can add more when your paper towels are already fully soaked. Letting the paper towels absorb the dirty liquid helps your sliding door tracks to dry quicker.

Wipe off the dirt and moisture using a paper towel or dry microfibre cloth.

Step 5. Cleaning the corners

Cleaning and drying the corners of your sliding glass door tracks can be quite tricky. Wrap a piece of cloth around the butter knife and start getting into hard-to-reach nooks and crannies of your track. 

Step 6. Lubricate the door tracks

This is an extra step that will benefit your sliding door tracks. Think of it as icing on the cake! Once you have your door tracks cleaned, lubricating them will make pushing and pulling the sliding door easier. Check with your door manufacturer what lubricating agents are best suited for your door.

FAQs

1. Can I use WD40 on my sliding glass door tracks?

Before you use any lubricant on your door tracks, check with your sliding door manufacturer what you can and cannot use on them. WD40 can be used on stainless steel, aluminium, bronze, copper, and brass.

When cleaning with WD40, simply spray along the length of the track and allow it to sit for 5 minutes. Spread the lubricant by sliding the door gently through the track. Your sliding door should be able to open and close smoothly.

2. How often should I clean my sliding door tracks?

Cleaning once a week keeps your door tracks in good condition. Lubricate them as needed to ensure your doors running smoothly.

3. How do I remove rust from my sliding door tracks?

This simple and easy method is effective in cleaning rust from your door tracks. Using a piece of steel wool, gently scrub off the rust. Wipe off any residue with a clean damp cloth, then dry with a microfibre towel.

4. Can I use baking soda on my door track?

Baking soda, or bicarb soda, is a natural cleaning method for your sliding glass door tracks. You can make your own cleaning solution by mixing baking soda and vinegar. Use as you would a regular soap cleaner. After applying, scrub any remaining residue away with a damp cloth, then dry with a clean microfibre towel. 

The importance of sliding door tracks maintenance

Clean and well-lubricated tracks for your door elevate your home to the next level. It pretty much has the same effect on your house as what a sharp haircut does to your wellbeing. While these little nuances are barely perceptible at first, over time they can make or break a good experience.

Clean tracks will also come in handy when you reach the end of the lease for your home. In order to get your full bond back, you need to take care of every detail in the property and have each nook and cranny cleaned.

If you’re having doubts as to how to pull it off or you’re feeling daunted at the huge task ahead, you can call in professional bond cleaners for help. These cleaning companies know how to give your home a thorough cleaning at the end of your lease. All you need to do is sit back and relax, and you’ll have the property as fresh and clean as when you moved in. How cool is that?

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