Making your windows sparkle can give your entire home a fresh, open feel that’s perfect for welcoming the spring and summer months. However, the act of cleaning your windows can be dangerous, especially if your home has multiple stories or hard-to-reach window features. It’s all too easy to become another statistic of household accidents by falling from ladders or overstretching Raptor.
To ensure that your pursuit of gleaming windows doesn’t end in injury or worse, these safety tips are essential for every homeowner to follow.
Assess Your Windows
Before whipping out the squeegee and window cleaner, take a proactive approach to safety. Begin by assessing the size, location, and accessibility of your windows. Make note of any potential hazards such as fragile sills, difficult-to-open windows, or those close to power lines. Windows posed in a way that navigating around them would require you to be in the path of walking traffic or atop a steep incline of the roof, should signal the need for professional services.
Use the Right Equipment
When it comes to window cleaning, the right tools can make all the difference. Invest in a good-quality, sturdy ladder that’s appropriate for the height you’ll be working at and that is known for its stability. For multi-story homes, a ladder stabilizer can be attached to prevent it from slipping or swaying. Additionally, choose an extension pole with a squeegee or mop head, especially for hard-to-reach windows, to eliminate the need for over-reaching.
Pick the Perfect Day
Window cleaning should be done on a day where there is no risk of rain to make the windows slippery, yet mild temperatures can help dry your cleaner effectively. Overly hot days can cause the cleaning solution to evaporate before you can squeegee it away, leading to streaks; cold weather can make the windows too cold, causing the same issue. Always choose a day with little to no wind, as gusts can cause instability on ladders.
Wear the Right Clothing
While it may seem trivial, the clothing you wear while window cleaning can have a significant impact on your safety. Opt for non-slip shoes with good tread to minimize the risk of falling from ladders. Avoid loose-fitting clothing or anything that could get caught on window handles or even ladder rungs. Wearing gloves can provide a better grip when moving the ladder or using an extension pole.
Practice Ladder Safety
When using a ladder, one should always follow the 3-point contact rule. Keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand in contact with the ladder at all times. Place the ladder on level ground, and use leg levelers if necessary for uneven terrain. Never lean too far to the side or overreach, as that’s a critical point in which accidents can happen. When leaning to one side, your belly button should not go beyond the sides of the ladder.
The Buddy System
Two sets of eyes and hands are always better than one. Having a second person to assist you can significantly decrease the risk of accidents. They can steady the bottom of the ladder, hand you tools, and even take over part of the cleaning so you don’t have to move and adjust the ladder as frequently.
Read the Product Labels
Familiarize yourself with the cleaning solutions you plan to use. Some may require dilution, while others have specific application and removal instructions. Also, be aware of any potential health hazards and wear appropriate protective gear like goggles or masks if your cleaner advises doing so.
Window cleaning can be a satisfying task, but it’s not a job to take lightly. By following these tips, you can ensure that your next window cleaning session is as safe as it is effective. Always prioritize your well-being and take the extra precautions necessary, especially when dealing with heights and cleaning materials. And if in doubt, hire a professional who has the experience and equipment needed to complete the job.