Sometimes when we are out and about cleaning windows in the winter we here the common shout: “Why bother it’s about to rain?” And we laugh and smile and wish them well on their day… It does however raise an interesting question, Why Clean Windows in Winter?
Most people think window cleaning is something that can wait until spring along with the annual spring clean, but winter is actually one of the most important times to keep on top of it. When the days are shorter and natural light is mostly hidden by clouds and short days, dirty glass can make it even more difficult for light to enter our homes, dirty windows make rooms feel darker and gloomier. Add road salt spray, rainwater marks and grime buildup from cold temperatures, and windows can start to look dull very quickly.
Keeping up with a regular winter window cleaning schedule not only brightens up your indoor areas but also helps safeguard your window frames and seals. Plus, it prevents long-term damage to your glass from pesky environmental pollutants that like to settle in. It’s a simple way to keep your home looking fresh and inviting!
We clean windows throughout winter in Cheshire using our purified water reach-and-wash system. It means no chemicals, no streaks, and no need to climb ladders in freezing temperatures. The finish dries crystal-clear even on overcast skies, damp days and during light rain.
Why Winter Window Cleaning Matters
Rain, grit and road spray carry tiny particles that cling to window glass. Left for weeks or months, that dirt hardens and can start to mark seals and frames. Over time, this can affect the window lifespan and energy efficiency, because dirt on glazed windows slightly reduces natural light, making rooms feel darker and encouraging people to switch the lights on earlier.
According to research from the Building Research Establishment (BRE), rooms with clean windows receive noticeably more natural daylight during winter months, even when the weather looks dull. This has a positive effect on mood and comfort levels inside the home.
But Doesn’t Rain Just Make the Windows Dirty Again?
This is one of the most common questions we get. Rain itself is not dirty. What causes streaks is when rain hits windows that already have dust or residue from tap-water cleaning. Because we use purified, deionised water, the glass dries clean, even in rain. Which means yes — it is absolutely fine to clean windows during winter weather.
We used to hear this concern a lot until people saw the results. One customer, Lorna in Northwich, said she not only appreciates our reliability but that we arrive on schedule and clean window sills, frames and glass — Our customers can also pay online simple and hassle-free.
Why DIY Window Cleaning Is Harder in Winter
Cleaning windows with a bucket with warm water and dishwashing liquid works fine in summer, but in winter:
- The water cools too fast and leaves streaks
- Microfiber cloths can smear if the glass is too cold
- Using ladders can be unsafe on wet or icy ground
- Rubbing alcohol and white vinegar solutions evaporate too quickly in cold temperatures
- Homemade solutions and spray bottle mixtures can freeze outside
Instead, we clean from the ground using Water Fed Poles with purified water. No sturdy ladders are needed, and there’s no risk of leaning weight against window frames or seals.
Protecting Window Frames and Mechanisms
Winter grime buildup doesn’t only affect the glass. Dirt gathers in window frame tracks, window sills and around window seals. If left, it can hold moisture and encourage mould or corrosion over time. A professional window cleaning service helps prevent this by rinsing both the glass and frames thoroughly.
Sue in Hartford told us she appreciates that not only the glass but also the frames, doors and roof lights are cleaned each visit. It’s the small details that make the difference.
FAQ: Winter Window Cleaning
Winter dirt sticks more firmly and can cause long-term damage to seals and frames if left too long. Cleaning helps protect your windows and keeps natural light coming into your home.
The biggest advantages are clearer glass, brighter rooms and prevention of grime buildup. Clean windows help reduce the need for early indoor lighting and make your home feel fresher during darker months.
Cold temperatures, salt spray and rain can leave residue that becomes harder to remove later. Regular cleaning stops the buildup before it settles.
Using purified water from the ground avoids ladders, reduces safety concerns and gives a streak-free finish on glass surfaces.
Cleaner windows allow in more natural light, which can reduce artificial light usage during daytime hours. If you’d like to read more about how natural light affects indoor comfort during winter, the UK Government’s Future Homes Standard provides some useful guidance
We avoid ladders and work from ground level, reducing slip and fall risks and keeping the work safe.
Ready to Keep Your Windows Clear This Winter?
We’re a local, family-run business. We work across Northwich, Winsford, Hartford, Weaverham, Knutsford, Leftwich and the surrounding Cheshire area. We notify you the day before, complete the clean safely from the ground using purified water, and you can pay easily online.
If you’d like to arrange a winter window clean, you can request a quick quote here:
