How to Clean Window Tracks (Without Breaking Your Back)
Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of a clean window — the tracks. You know, those grimy grooves at the bottom of your sliding windows or doors where dust, bugs, and who-knows-what else likes to hide?
They’re easy to ignore... until they start jamming your windows, growing mould, or making your fresh glass look like it got dressed in dirty socks.
If you're wondering how to clean window tracks without spending hours hunched over with a toothbrush — you're in the right place.
Why Window Tracks Matter
Clean tracks don’t just look better — they help your windows slide smoothly, prevent moisture damage, and keep allergens at bay (especially during Perth’s dusty seasons).
And if you’ve ever cleaned your windows and still felt like something looked “off” — it was probably the dirty tracks dragging the whole vibe down.
What You’ll Need
🧼 Vacuum with a crevice attachment
🧽 Old toothbrush or small scrub brush
🧴 Dish soap, white vinegar, or a gentle all-purpose cleaner
🧻 Paper towels or microfiber cloths
🔦 (Optional: a butter knife wrapped in cloth for tight corners — seriously)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Window Tracks
1. Vacuum First
Suck up all the loose debris — dead bugs, crumbs, and sand. Use the crevice tool to get into the corners.
2. Spray and Soak
Mix a little dish soap or vinegar with warm water. Spray it into the track and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the grime.
3. Scrub the Gunk
Grab your toothbrush (the one you don’t use on your teeth) and start scrubbing the corners and edges. You might be surprised how much comes up.
4. Wipe It Down
Use a paper towel or cloth to scoop up all the dirty liquid and muck. You might need a second round if it’s been a while between cleans.
5. Detail the Corners
Use that butter knife trick — wrap it in a damp cloth and run it along the tight edges. It’s perfect for those stubborn corners.
How Often Should You Clean Window Tracks?
In Perth, where sand, dust, and spiders love creeping in, every 3–6 months is a good rhythm. More often if you’re coastal or have pets and kids constantly opening windows.
If you're already getting a professional window clean, ask your cleaner (like us!) to include the tracks — it makes a huge difference to the final result.