This bridal shower is turning into a lot of work, but it’s also getting me motivated to get the spring cleaning done early. A few days ago I talked about washing windows, I’m still waiting for the snow to melt to do mine but this weekend is supposed to be warm so I’m hoping to get it done.
While washing the windows all the screens come down, now is the perfect time to clean those as well. When you are taking the screens down make sure you mark them somehow so you will remember which screen goes to which window. I always think I will remember but I never do, I use a sharper to put a letter in the corner of each screen to help me remember.
Screens should be cleaned twice a year but at the very least every spring to get rid of the dirt and grime that accumulated over the winter. Think of your screens as a filter, they filter out dust, dirt and bugs, keeping them clean allows them to do a better job and improves the air flowing into your home.
I use the same thing I use to clean my windows, hot water and a squirt of dish detergent. Lay your screens flat, soak them with the hose and then spray them with cleaner. Let this sit for about ten minutes. Next I take a soft cloth, wet it with cleaning solution and wipe the entire screen down, mesh and sides. Do this gently, you don’t want to poke a hole in the screen or stretch it out. After you wipe them down rinse well with the garden hose. Shake out the excess water and let dry. I like to change the position of my screens as they dry so the water doesn’t pool in the corners and come out on the floor when I am putting them back.
Inspect your screens, if you have little rips or tears you can buy a kit at the hardware store to repair it or you can rescreen, which is a bigger project.