Have you ever had poor indoor air quality in your home or office? You may have either noticed it because of increased odors, sneezing, coughing, or stuffiness. Dirty windows may be the culprit.

Dirty windows can worsen the air quality inside of a room, so it’s important to stay on top of regular cleanings so you can breathe better.

Connection Between Windows & Indoor Air Quality

Windows can create a barrier between the indoor and outdoor spaces, helping to block some of the dust, grime, and debris that tends to come inside. When the surfaces of the windows are dirty themselves, though, this can make for poor air quality. These are some of the main problems that arise.

1. Trapping Unpleasant Odors

Dirty windows can trap odors in a room, like cigarette smoke residue, cooking fumes, and other odors. The odors can get stuck and cling to the window, causing the unpleasant smells to linger in the air and creating a stuffy or stale environment.

Improved air starts with clean surfaces, including windows. Regular cleanings will help to remove the layer of grime that traps the odors, ensuring a fresh-smelling room.

2. Dust & Allergen Accumulation

Over time, dirty windows collect dust, pollen, and other airborne allergens. When the windows are opened or the heating/cooling system runs, it can make these allergens kick up and float around in the air.

This can lead to worse respiratory issues, aggravate asthma or allergies, and lead to poor indoor air quality. That’s why it’s important to deep clean both the interior and exterior sides of your windows.

3. Blocking Natural Sunlight

Sunlight actually has antimicrobial properties that can minimize indoor bacteria and mold growth. If windows are too dirty to let in sufficient sunlight, this can reduce the benefits of an otherwise natural cleaning tool. A brighter and cleaner space can help maintain and improve indoor air quality.

4. Mold Growth from Moisture Buildup

Mold thrives in moist environments and dirty windows tend to collect more condensation. If moisture is sitting on the window sill, in the tracks, or on the window pane, this can encourage mold growth. Mold breeds by releasing spores into the air, which can lead to coughing, asthma, and respiratory problems.

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality with Clean Windows

When you stay on top of the cleanliness of your windows, you can greatly improve the environment of your home and improve the indoor air quality. There are some cleaning habits and practices that will help keep your windows – and the air inside – fresh and clean.

• Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products – Some chemical-based cleaning products can add more toxins and pollutants into the air and actually worsen the air quality. Opt for using natural cleaning supplies or use a simple cleaning solution like vinegar and water.
  
• Regular Window Cleaning – Clean the inside and outside of your windows at least every few months to minimize grime buildup. Though you can easily maintain the inside windows with a cleaning product and a rag, you may need to hire a professional to clean the exterior sides of your windows, especially if they are on upper levels.
  
• Control Humidity Levels – Since a higher level of humidity can encourage mold growth and breeding, it’s important to regulate humidity levels. Ensure sufficient ventilation or use a dehumidifier to improve air quality and reduce the chances of mold.
  
• Let in Fresh Air – There’s nothing like some fresh air to help with cleaning and invigorate the home. Opening your windows regularly helps to flush out indoor pollutants and introduce fresh air circulation.
  
• Check & Clean Window Frames & Sills – Ensure that you don’t just clean the glass panes on your windows, but all areas. The frames, sills, and tracks are all often-neglected areas that are prime spots for dirt and grime to collect. Wipe these down thoroughly with your window cleanings to prevent allergen buildup.

Breathe Easier with Professional Window Cleaning

It’s important to maintain a clean home or office so that you can breathe fresh, clean air without worrying about pollutants, allergens, or dust. Though you can clean the interior sides of your windows fairly easily, it’s important to hire a professional window cleaner to come semi-regularly and deep clean the outside of your windows.

At Above & Beyond Window Cleaning, we don’t just do a simple scrub; we have services to clean your windows, screens, window tracks, siding, porches, and gutters so your home or office is better than before. Reach out to us to get the fresh air you deserve.