How to Clean Your Windowsills

Warmer weather brings myriad joys into our lives, including throwing open the windows to let in some fresh air.

But wait! Is that mold on your windowsills? Ewww. Moldy windowsills are unsightly and not good for the overall health of your home as they could lead to bigger problems. Rest assured, we’re here to help with step-by-step instructions for how to remove mold from windowsills!

Keep reading to learn Molly Maid’s tips for how to clean mold from windowsills.

What to Use to Clean Mold From Windowsills

While many cleaning solutions will work to remove some mold, using the right solution can help ensure the mold spores are being killed, preventing the mold from starting to grow back after you finish cleaning.

We recommend using one of these two options:

Bleach Water: Use a mixture of warm water and chlorine bleach. We recommend following the directions of the bleach manufacturer to know how much bleach and water to mix together.

White Vinegar and Water: If you prefer to not use bleach, you can also try a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.

How to Clean Mold From Windowsills

Before you get started, consider wearing a dust mask and rubber gloves to limit your exposure to the mold. Then, follow these steps:

1. Wet a toothbrush with the cleaning solution of your choice. Scrub the area with some elbow grease to break up the mold particles.
2. Once the mold has been scrubbed, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the surface clean.
3. If more mold remains, repeat the process until it has been removed.

Preventing Mold from Returning to Windowsills

As we mentioned above, mold can come back. Using a cleaning solution that kills mold will help, but if the conditions that made the windowsill moldy to begin with remain, the mold is likely to return. Check your windows for leaks, moisture on the windowpanes, or other issues that could be providing a moist environment for mold to grow.

Fixing the moldy windowsill issue at the root cause will better prevent mold in the future, as opposed to regularly cleaning it.

Cleaning Windowsills

Cleaning your window sills is very rewarding. Not only is it simple to do; it provides immediate results. You don’t have to bend over like you do when you clean baseboards or floors, and the supplies you need are simple. Cleaning window sills only requires a good microfiber cloth, an all-purpose spray and some cleaning music. Instructions are simple: Spray and wipe! Dance moves are optional as you visit each window in your home.

Your favorite all-purpose cleaner will work fine for this job, but you may also make your own homemade cleaner with a half-and-half mix of water and vinegar. This technique is safe and effective for vinyl and wood window sills. For stone or granite window sills, swap vinegar for rubbing alcohol.

How to Clean Window Tracks

Some window tracks get so dirty and gummed up that nobody even bothers to open the window anymore. Let Molly Maid help your windows glide with ease! Follow these window track cleaning tips:

1. Vacuum. Use the brush attachment to remove dust, loose debris and dead bugs stuck in the window track.
2. Sprinkle. Put a little baking soda on the remaining stuck-on gunk, and then spray some vinegar into the tracks. Allow this to soak and bubble for 10 minutes.
3. Scrub. Brush the loosened gunk with an old toothbrush or stiff nylon brush. Use a shop vacuum to suck up the wet debris, or wipe it up with a damp microfiber cloth.
4. Target. If any debris remains, wrap a damp cloth around a butter knife and guide it into the corners where the dirt is hardest to reach.
5. Wipe. Bring your cloth down the track one last time, and admire your handiwork.
6. Lubricate. Once you’re finished, add the right kind of lubricant. On vinyl tracks, use a small amount of silicone lubricant. On wooden window tracks, use an appropriate wax. Open and close the window several times to heat and spread the lubricant. Apply more as needed. Don’t skip this important step if you want your windows to glide like new.

Windows can be one of the most beautiful features of a home, but they also stick out the most when they have dust and cobwebs on them. Keep your home—and your view—looking great by cleaning your window sills and tracks as soon as you see any buildup.

Professional Home Cleaning from Molly Maid

While you’re busy taking care of things around the house, why not let someone else tackle the everyday cleaning? Molly Maid offers customized cleaning plans to fit your budget and schedule. Our home cleaning services range from one time or recurring cleaning to special event cleaning services.

Contact the Molly Maid location nearest you to request a free estimate. One of our locally owned cleaning service locations would be happy to help!