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How to Easily Clean Your Double-Hung Windows (Without the Hassle!)

June 23rd, 2025

3 min read

By Shari Rogala

Ever struggled to figure out how to maneuver your double-hung windows for the easy cleaning feature that you were promised? You’re not alone. This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get at Joyce. We understand that keeping your windows spotless shouldn’t feel like a gym workout or a balancing act. That’s why we’ve made it easy with our double-hung window design built with tilt-in technology that lets you clean both sides from the inside of your home. No ladders. No backaches. Just crystal-clear views.

Here’s how to clean your Joyce double-hung windows like a pro.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Joyce Double-Hung Windows

  1. Unlock the Window
    Start by fully unlocking the window. Slide the latches on the bottom sash inward so the sash is   free to move.
  2. Raise the Bottom Sash
    Gently lift the bottom sash about 6–8 inches to allow enough room to tilt it.
  3. Tilt the Bottom Sash Inward
    Find the tilt latches on the top edge of the bottom sash. Pull both latches inward toward the center. Carefully tilt the sash toward the inside of your home until it lies nearly flat at a 90-degree angle. Move slowly to avoid damaging the frame or sash.
  4. Lower the Top Sash
    Now slide the top sash down about 6–8 inches, giving you enough space to tilt it in for cleaning.
  5. Tilt the Top Sash Inward
    Locate the tilt latches on the top sash (similar to the bottom sash) and pull inward. Tilt it toward the interior just like you did with the bottom sash. Again, go slow and support the weight of the sash to prevent strain on the tilt mechanism.
  6. Clean the Top Sash First
    Begin cleaning with the interior side of the top sash, then move on to the exterior side while the sash is still tilted inward.
  7. Reposition the Top Sash
    Once the top sash is clean, gently guide it back into its frame and push it up completely.
  8. Clean the Bottom Sash
    With the bottom sash still tilted, clean the interior side first, followed by the exterior side.
  9. Reposition the Bottom Sash
    Slide the bottom sash back into the frame. Make sure it clicks into place securely.
  10. Close the Window Properly
    To finish, lift the bottom sash by the lift rail—not the top edge—when closing the window. Closing it from the top can damage the sash and hardware.

Cleaning Double Hung copy

Best Cleaning Products for Double-Hung Windows

  • Glass Panes: Use a standard window cleaner, such as Windex, for a streak-free shine.
  • Vinyl Frames: Clean with mild solutions like:

    • Soap and water
    • Vinegar and water
    • Murphy’s Oil Soap
  • Avoid: Any cleaner with abrasives, ammonia, or harsh chemicals. These can damage or discolor the vinyl frame.

Why Double-Hung Windows Make Life Easier

At Joyce, we design our double-hung windows with your convenience and lifestyle in mind. The innovative tilt-in feature is more than just a modern design element—it’s a practical solution that allows you to clean both the interior and exterior glass surfaces from inside your home. This means no more dragging out ladders, climbing on stools, or worrying about safety while reaching difficult spots. Especially in multi-story homes, this feature transforms what used to be a time-consuming and risky task into a quick, easy, and safe part of your cleaning routine.

But the benefits of double-hung windows go beyond easy cleaning. These windows offer superior ventilation by allowing you to open both the top and bottom sashes, promoting better airflow and temperature control in your home. They’re also incredibly energy-efficient and space-saving, making them ideal for any room where outward-swinging windows may not be practical. At Joyce, we combine functionality, durability, and style to ensure our double-hung windows enhance not only your home’s appearance but also your everyday comfort and peace of mind.

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Ready for That Sparkling View?

Now that you know how easy it is to clean double-hung windows—thanks to their tilt-in design—you can look forward to a home filled with better light, clearer views, and a brighter, more inviting atmosphere. Whether you're already enjoying Joyce windows or just starting to explore your options, the benefits of this smart, user-friendly design make a noticeable difference in everyday life.

If you're considering upgrading your windows, Joyce double-hung windows are designed with quality, convenience, and comfort in mind. 

For more home tips, window care advice, and inspiration, be sure to follow the Joyce blog. And if you have questions or want to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help you make the best choice for your home.

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Shari Rogala

Shari Rogala is the Marketing Content Manager at Joyce Windows, Sunrooms & Baths, where she brings near two decades of experience in customer-first marketing strategy and home improvement communications. With a passion for helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions, Shari specializes in creating clear, educational content that cuts through industry jargon and high-pressure sales tactics.