How Do You Clean Sliding Window Tracks?

Whether or not you keep your windows open, dust and dirt can collect in the tracks. Regular upkeep is necessary and dirty window tracks can ruin even the sunniest views. If you haven’t done so already, you want to make sure that you clean your windows or get professional window cleaning before addressing the tracks. Otherwise, you run the risk of more filth dripping into the window tracks when you clean the glass.

The window track is the space behind and underneath the window that holds the window in place and keeps out the breeze. However, tiny spaces and crevices mean that dirt and dust accumulate quickly. The dirt can start to lead to problems with how the windows open and close.

Why You Need to Clean Window Tracks

It can be easy to neglect your window tracks, especially when you have a lot of other things to clean. Neglecting window tracks can create a perfect environment for grime and dirt to build up. This can potentially cause enough buildup that prevents windows from working properly. This can also allow drafts into the home. Drafts make the home less energy-efficient and create higher energy bills. Condensation can also collect in the window tracks and create mold growth. Mold will be unhealthy for everyone and it’s something that should be addressed right away.

What You Need for Cleaning Window Tracks

Some of the supplies you need for cleaning window tracks include baking soda, white vinegar, water, dish soap, an old toothbrush, a wet rag, a spoon, and a toothpick.

The Process of Cleaning Window Tracks

Place baking soda over the entire window track and don’t forget to add it to the nooks and crannies since this is where a lot of the dirt collects.

Mix together dish soap, vinegar, and water in a spray bottle. Add the solution over the current baking soda to mix it. The window tracks should be completely covered. You will need to wait for the mixture to bubble, which only takes about five minutes.

Then scrub the window tracks with a toothbrush. The small bristles can help you get into tight spaces or corners in order to remove built-up dirt. The solution will pull up the dirt from the tracks and they will look shiny, new, and bright.

If there is still some dirt left behind that the toothbrush can’t get out then you can use a toothpick. Once you remove the gunk left in the corners, give it a wipe down with a wet paper towel.

Other Ways to Clean Window Tracks

There are also other approaches you can use to clean window tracks. You can use a vacuum attachment in order to suck the dirt out but you will still need to wipe down after cleaning. Instead of wiping down the dirt, you can also use a steam garment cleaner. Don’t do this when the windows are cold since the extreme temperatures with the glass and steam could lead to cracking. This method also won’t work if you have panes or tracks made of wood or surfaces that have been waxed or polished. Use the vacuum and crevice tool to remove as much dirt a possible. When the steamer is ready, you can use it to break up any stuck-on rime that is in the window tracks. Once you have loosened debris you can wipe it with a cloth. Repeat until the tracks are clean and replace the cloth as it starts to get soiled so it picks up as much dirt as possible.

You should be cleaning the window tracks at least every six months or when they start to look grimy. This can help prevent buildup from collecting and make the cleaning process much easier. You should clean both the horizontal and vertical window tracks for the best results. If you are cleaning your windows frequently enough then you can also consider cleaning the tracks using disinfectant wipes to get the process done even faster. Disinfectant wipes likely won’t work if the job hasn’t been done in a while.

Remember, keeping your windows in good working conditions, including keeping the window tracks clean, will save you the cost of broken or damaged windows. If you aren’t able to clean the window tracks on your own, see if it can be included when you get your windows professionally cleaned.