How To Clean Your Anlin Windows
Anlin windows are designed to provide years of energy efficiency, smooth operation, and clear views. However, Arizona dust, pollen, mineral deposits, fingerprints, and monsoon debris can quickly leave the glass looking less than perfect.
Fortunately, cleaning Anlin windows is simple. The key is using gentle cleaning products and avoiding abrasive tools that could scratch the glass or damage the window’s insulating seals.
What You’ll Need
Before getting started, gather the following supplies:
A clean bucket
Warm water
Mild liquid dish soap (Dawn Dish Soap is great)
A window scrubber or non-abrasive sponge
A clean spray bottle
Microfiber towels
You do not need harsh chemicals or specialized glass-cleaning equipment. In fact, aggressive cleaners and tools can do considerably more harm than good.
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Fill a clean bucket with water and add a small amount of mild liquid dish soap. Mix the solution gently.
Avoid using too much soap. An overly concentrated mixture can leave a film on the glass and make streaking worse.
The same mild soap-and-water mixture can be placed in a spray bottle when cleaning the interior glass.
Step 2: Clean the Exterior Glass
Dip a window scrubber or non-abrasive sponge into the cleaning solution. Allow the excess water to drain off before applying it to the window.
Gently clean the entire glass surface, working across the window until dirt, dust, and residue have been loosened.
Do not completely saturate the window. Using excessive water can push dirty cleaning solution into the frame, track, or drainage system.
Step 3: Clean the Interior Glass
For the inside of the window, lightly spray the glass with the same mild dish-soap solution. It may be beneficial to place a towel at the bottom of the window to prevent water dripping onto the drywall.
Apply the solution evenly instead of soaking one area. Wipe the glass dry with a clean microfiber towel, turning the towel as needed to avoid spreading dirt across the surface.
For the cleanest finish, use one microfiber towel to remove the cleaning solution and another dry towel for the final polish.
Avoid Cleaning Windows in Direct Sunlight
Whenever possible, clean your windows in the morning, evening, or while the glass is shaded.
Direct Arizona sunlight can heat the glass and cause the cleaning solution to dry before you can wipe it away. The result is usually streaks, water spots, and the strong desire to throw the spray bottle into the yard.
Cleaning cooler glass gives you more time to remove the solution evenly.
Never Use These Products on Anlin Windows
Anlin advises homeowners not to use abrasive or aggressive cleaning products on the glass, frames, or patio doors.
Avoid:
Razor blades
Putty knives or metal scrapers
Abrasive scrub pads
Petroleum-based cleaners
Lacquer thinner
Acetone or similar solvents
Caustic chemicals
High-pressure hoses or pressure washers
These products can void the warranty, scratch the glass, damage vinyl surfaces, affect insulating seals, and cause permanent damage to the window.
If material such as paint, adhesive, stucco, or construction residue is stuck to the glass, do not immediately attack it with a razor blade. Contact your window installer or Anlin for guidance before attempting to remove it.
Don’t Forget the Tracks and Weep Holes
Arizona windows collect plenty of dust and sand, especially during monsoon season. Periodically wipe dirt and debris from the sill and track using a damp towel.
You should also inspect the exterior weep holes along the bottom of the window frame. These openings allow water to drain toward the exterior of the home.
If dirt, sand, paint, or stucco blocks the openings, carefully clear them using a small, soft brush. Do not seal or caulk over the weep holes.
How Often Should Anlin Windows Be Cleaned?
There is no universal schedule, but most Arizona homeowners will benefit from cleaning their windows several times per year.
Additional cleaning may be helpful after:
Dust storms
Monsoon thunderstorms
Nearby landscaping or construction
Exterior painting or stucco work
Extended periods of blowing pollen or debris
Regular, gentle cleaning is much safer than allowing heavy buildup to accumulate and later trying to remove it with aggressive chemicals or scraping tools.
Keep Your Anlin Windows Looking Their Best
Cleaning Anlin windows does not require harsh chemicals or complicated equipment. Mild dish soap, water, a non-abrasive sponge, and microfiber towels are usually all you need.
Use a light touch, avoid cleaning hot glass in direct sunlight, and never use razor blades or abrasive products. Following these basic steps will help protect the appearance and performance of your windows for years to come.
Modern Resolution Windows & Doors installs energy-efficient replacement windows and doors throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Prescott, Flagstaff, and surrounding Arizona communities.
Ready to replace your old or inefficient windows? Schedule your free window consultation with Modern Resolution Windows & Doors.