Window screens can get pretty dirty after a while, and they reduce the amount of sunlight that comes in your windows. Here's how to clean your screens. First, remove the screens. Mark one of the top corners of each (figure A) so you'll know which direction the screen faces when you replace it. You can also mark inside the channel where the screen goes (figure B) and match the marks up later. If you're screens aren't too dirty, use a soft-bristle brush to clean them (a firm-bristle brush could tear the fabric). Begin by cleaning the spline (figure C), where the screen is connected to the frame. Start with a dry brush, then dampen the brush and clean the screen more thoroughly. If the screens are really dirty, soak them in a large tub half-filled with soapy water. Spray the water with a garden hose to create suds, then work the suds into the screen with a soft-bristle brush (figure D). After you've brushed away the dirt and grime, rinse the screens with a garden hose. If the screens are damaged, take this time to repair or replace them. Dry each screen by shaking off excess water. Stand screens on one corner to allow the water to drain from the spline and frame. You might also want to wipe them with a clean, dry towel to remove any remaining dirt. While each screen is out, clean the channel in the window. Use a cloth-wrapped pencil tip or screwdriver (figure E). If you wish to store the screens for the winter, wrap them in sheet plastic, which comes in rolls and is available at most home-improvement centers. This will prevent bugs and other pests from getting into the clean screens.
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