Security screens, doors, and windows are essential in keeping your home safe and ventilated.
However, like other parts of our homes, they need regular cleaning and maintenance to maintain their appearance and functionality.
Below are some tips and guidelines on keeping them in top shape and when it might be time to call in a cleaning professional.
How Often Should You Clean Your Security Screens?
Ideally, security screens should be cleaned every 3–6 months.
But if your home is near the beach, a busy road, or an area with a lot of dust, it might require monthly to weekly cleaning.
Frequent cleaning not only ensures a clear view but also prevents the accumulation of dust, dirt, and salt, which can corrode the screens over time.
What Supplies Do I Need to Clean Security Screens?
Cleaning security screens doesn’t require a plethora of specialised tools or products.
Most of what you need can be found in your home or easily acquired from a local store.
Here’s a rundown of the cleaning supplies you can use:
- Mild detergent: A gentle soap or mild detergent mixed with water will help dissolve and remove dirt and grime without damaging your screens. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can deteriorate the mesh.
- Bucket: You’ll need a bucket to mix the cleaning solution (water and detergent) and to dip your cloth or sponge easily.
- Soft cloth or sponge: Choose a non-abrasive cloth or sponge to prevent scratching or damaging the screen material.
- Soft-bristled brush: A soft-bristled brush can be more effective than a cloth or sponge for tougher spots or stains.
- Garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle: This will be used for rinsing off the soap and dirt from the screens. A gentle spray ensures that the water pressure won’t damage the screens.
- Clean, dry towels: While air drying is an option, wiping them down can prevent water spots and ensure a clearer view.
- Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment: If you’re cleaning window screens or mesh screens, a vacuum with a brush attachment is perfect for removing dust and cobwebs without detaching them.
- Ladder or step stool: If you’re cleaning window screens that are out of reach, you’ll need a sturdy ladder or step stool to access them safely.
- Rubber gloves: While optional, these can protect your hands from dirt and grime and prevent smudging.
- Protective goggles or eyewear: Also optional, but these can keep any dirt and debris from falling into your eyes.
Once you’ve gathered all these supplies, you’re set to begin the cleaning process.
How to Clean Security Screen Doors
Security screen doors, our homes’ first line of defence, are frequently exposed to the elements and daily wear and tear.
Regularly cleaning security screen doors ensures they look aesthetically pleasing and function correctly.
Remove Loose Dirt
Start using a soft brush to gently remove loose dirt and debris from your security screen door.
Always brush from top to bottom so the dust falls to the ground.
Create a Cleaning Solution
Grab a bucket and mix warm water with a few drops of mild detergent.
Gently Scrub
Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the screen in a circular motion.
Again, go from top to bottom and scrub any corners and the locking mechanism as well.
Rinse
If you have a nearby tap, grab your hose and gently spray to rinse the security door from top to bottom.
However, you can use another bucket with clean water and another brush to rinse your security screen doors.
You may need to do a few passes if you opt to rinse with the bucket and brush method.
Dry
Wipe the clean security screen with a soft, dry cloth or let it air dry.
How to Clean Security Window Screens
Security window screens provide an added layer of security and ventilation.
Given their role, they often collect dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
A routine cleaning routine guarantees a clear view and ensures that the fresh air coming in is free of contaminants.
Dust Off
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and cobwebs.
Alternatively, you can use a microfiber duster.
Prepare Cleaning Mixture
As with cleaning security screen doors, mix warm water with mild detergent in a bucket.
Scrub Gently
Use a soft cloth to scrub the screens. For tougher stains, a soft-bristled brush might be necessary.
Rinse and Dry
Rinse with clean water, then dry with a towel or let it air dry. The choice is yours.
Just make sure you dry the window screen properly so that you won’t damage its powder coating or metal parts.
How to Make Your Security Screens Last
Investing in security screens is a decision that speaks to both safety and aesthetics.
Like any investment, you’ll want to care for it properly and ensure its longevity.
By understanding the factors that can wear security screens down and how to counteract them, you can ensure that your screens remain durable and effective for years to come.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Dirt and grime can build up on security screens.
Clean them every 3–6 months with a mild detergent and a soft brush.
This prevents buildup, which might corrode or damage the screen over time.
Inspect for Rust
If your security screens are made of metal, they may be susceptible to rust, especially in humid climates.
Regularly inspect them and treat any early signs of rust with a rust inhibitor.
Lubricate Moving Parts
If your screen has moving parts or hinges, ensure they operate smoothly.
Apply a silicone-based lubricant every few months to keep them from getting stiff or rusty.
Replace Damaged Mesh
Over time, the mesh in security screens can become damaged. If you notice any holes or tears, address them immediately.
Depending on the extent, you might patch them or replace the entire mesh.
Check and Tighten Fastenings
The screws and fasteners that hold your security screens in place can loosen over time.
Give them a quick check every few months and tighten any that seem loose.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
When cleaning, avoid bleach or other harsh chemicals.
These can degrade the material of the screen or discolour them.
Educate Household Members
Ensure that everyone in your household knows how to open, close, and lock the screens properly.
Rough handling can lead to unnecessary wear and tear.
Professional Inspection
Once a year, consider having a professional come in and inspect your screens.
They might catch issues you’ve missed and can provide expert advice on maintenance.
FAQs About Security Screen Cleaning
How do you clean security mesh screens?
Security mesh screens can be delicate and tedious to clean if it’s your first time doing so.
Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris.
Then, use a soft cloth dampened with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to wipe them down.
Always be gentle to prevent damaging your security screens.
How do you clean screens without removing them?
For screens that are hard to remove, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean off dust and debris.
Then, gently wipe the security doors or screens with a cloth dampened in a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.
Make sure you rinse the cloth frequently to avoid redistributing the dirt.
Can you use WD-40 to clean security screens?
If you have a specific stain on your security screen that you believe WD-40 might help remove (such as adhesive residue or a sticky substance), you could apply it sparingly to that particular area using a cloth.
After treating the spot, clean the screen with a mild detergent solution to remove any WD-40 residue.
For regular cleaning of security screens, it’s best to stick to mild soapy water and a soft brush or cloth.
This method is effective, safe, and doesn’t leave any residues behind.
If you’re facing persistent issues with your screens or need help cleaning security screens, consulting with a cleaning professional or security screen manufacturer is your best bet.
Are fly screens and security screens the same thing?
No, although they can sometimes be confused due to their similar appearance.
Both fly screens and security screens cover windows and doors and keep out unwanted pests.
But their primary functions, materials, and characteristics differ significantly.
When choosing a screen, it’s essential to consider the immediate need — whether it’s simply to keep bugs out or to provide your property with an added layer of security.
Security Screen Cleaning Made Easier
Security screens, doors, and windows play a pivotal role in our homes, combining safety with the joy of fresh air and clear views.
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping them in pristine condition.
Cleaning them becomes straightforward and efficient with the right approach, tools and techniques.
Always remember, when we care for our security screens, they can protect and serve us better in the long run.
