Can You Steam Clean Your Windows?

Steam is just water in its vapor state. This makes it one of the worst ways to clean wooden windows, as extended exposure to moisture can warp and damage the wood. Luckily, our replacement windows from Renewal by Andersen® of Portland are framed with our exclusive Fibrex® material, an ultra-durable composite of reclaimed Ponderosa pine wood fibers and extruded polyvinyl chloride. This unique combination gives it superior resistance to water, making it a viable candidate for steam cleaning.

Before you break out the steam cleaner, it’s important to understand that, while our Fibrex windows are designed to withstand heat and moisture, there are still a few safety measures that must be taken. Let our professionals at Renewal by Andersen® of Portland show you how to properly steam clean your replacement windows.

Using a Steam Cleaner

A steam cleaner is a great way to get grease, prints and dirt off the glass panes without the use of hazardous chemicals. There are many different types of steam cleaners available today but only two are actually designed for cleaning replacement windows: handheld and squeegee-attached.

Handheld Steam Cleaning

The easiest way for beginners to steam clean their windows is with the use of a handheld steam cleaner. The operation is fairly straightforward. As the device runs, its “wand” will begin to shoot steam in a straight angle. Aim the nozzle directly at the glass and with a side-to-side motion, make your way from the top to the bottom part. Continue for all windows until everything is clean.

Squeegee Attachments

Using a handheld steam cleaner will often require drying. You can do so with a microfiber cloth or by simply letting it air dry over time. Air drying, however, might result in watermarks. A squeegee attachment can wipe excess moisture from the glass quite efficiently, making the drying process so much easier.

Renewal by Andersen of Portland is your go-to resource for all your door and window replacement needs. Call us at (503) 419-3960 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free in-home design consultation and request a no-obligation estimate today. We serve Portland and Salem, OR, including nearby areas in Lake Oswego.