To fully open a uPVC window for cleaning, unlock the handle, release any window restrictor, then open the window as far as its hinges allow. How far it opens, and whether you can clean the outside glass from inside, depends on your window type. Tilt & turn and reversible windows are the easiest to clean from inside.
Step 1: Identify Your Window Type
| Window type | How it opens | Can you clean the outside from inside? |
|---|---|---|
| Casement (standard hinges) | Outwards, on side or top hinges | Only partly |
| Casement (easy-clean hinges) | Outwards, and the sash moves across to leave a gap on the hinge side | Yes, through the gap |
| Tilt & turn | Tilts inwards at the top, or opens fully inwards | Yes |
| Reversible | Rotates so the outside glass faces into the room | Yes |
| Sliding sash | Sashes slide up and down | Only if the sashes tilt in |
Step 2: Unlock the Window
- If your handle has a key or a push-button lock, release it first.
- Turn the handle to the open position. Don’t force it. If it won’t turn, the locks may be misaligned.
- Release the window restrictor if one is fitted. It’s usually a small catch on the frame or hinge.
Step 3: Open the Window Fully
Casement windows
Push the sash outwards gently as far as the hinges allow, keeping hold of the handle. If you have easy-clean hinges, the sash moves across as it opens, leaving a gap on the hinge side so you can reach the outside of the glass.
Tilt & turn windows
- Make sure the window is closed.
- Turn the handle to the horizontal position.
- Pull the window inwards. It opens fully into the room, like a door.
(Turning the handle upwards tilts the window inwards at the top for ventilation.) See our tilt & turn windows.
Reversible windows
Unlock and open the window, then rotate the sash until the outside glass faces into the room. You can clean both sides safely from inside. See our reversible windows.
Sliding sash windows
Release the lock on the meeting rail and slide the sashes up or down. If your sashes have a tilt-in feature, release the tilt latches to tilt each sash inwards for cleaning. See our sash windows.
Stay Safe When Cleaning Open Windows
- Never lean out of a window, especially upstairs. If you can’t reach safely, use a long-handled cleaning tool or call a window cleaner.
- Support large sashes with one hand while opening and closing them.
- Don’t let the window swing into walls or be caught by the wind.
- Keep children away from open windows, and re-engage restrictors afterwards. RoSPA recommends window restrictors on upstairs windows to prevent falls.
Step 4: Clean Your uPVC Window
What you’ll need
| Tool | Used for |
|---|---|
| Microfibre cloths | Frames and glass |
| Soft-bristled brush | Channels, corners and hinges |
| Duster or small vacuum nozzle | Loose dust and debris |
| Warm water with mild washing-up liquid | General cleaning |
| Bucket | Mixing the solution |
Avoid: bleach, solvents, abrasive creams and scourers. They can scratch or discolour uPVC and damage the rubber seals.
1. Remove loose dirt first
Brush or vacuum dust, leaves, cobwebs and insects out of the frame, the hinges and the channels at the bottom of the frame. Doing this first stops you smearing dirt when you wipe.
2. Clean the frame
Dip a microfibre cloth in warm soapy water, wring it out, and wipe the frame inside and out. Work from the top down. Use the soft brush for corners and around the hinges.
3. Clear the drainage holes
Look for the small slots along the bottom of the outer frame. These let rainwater drain away. Clear any blockages gently with the brush or a pipe cleaner, so water doesn’t collect in the frame.
4. Wipe the rubber seals
Clean the seals gently with a damp cloth. Check for cracks, gaps or seals that have come loose, because damaged seals cause draughts.
5. Clean the glass
Clean both sides of the glass with warm soapy water or a glass cleaner, then dry it with a clean microfibre cloth to avoid streaks.
6. Dry everything
Wipe the frame, seals and sill dry before closing the window, so water isn’t trapped in the frame.
How often should you clean uPVC windows?
| Task | How often |
|---|---|
| Wipe frames and glass | Every few weeks, or as needed |
| Deep clean with the window fully open | Every 3–6 months |
| Check the seals and drainage holes | Every 3–6 months |
Homes near busy roads or in dusty areas may need more frequent cleaning.
For more tips, see our full guide to cleaning uPVC window frames.
Step 5: Close and Lock the Window
- Bring the sash back gently, supporting its weight.
- Close the window fully and turn the handle to the locked position.
- Re-engage the restrictor if one is fitted.
If the window scrapes, won’t close or won’t lock, it may need adjusting. See our uPVC window adjustment guide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forcing the handle while the locks are still engaged
- Opening large windows without supporting them
- Leaning out of upstairs windows to reach the outside glass
- Using abrasive cleaners or bleach on uPVC frames
- Leaving the drainage holes blocked
- Forgetting to re-engage the window restrictors
FAQs
How do you fully open a uPVC window?
Unlock the handle, release any restrictor, then open the window as far as its hinges allow. Tilt & turn windows open fully inwards when the handle is horizontal.
How do you clean the outside of uPVC windows from inside?
Reversible and tilt & turn windows let you clean both sides from inside. Casement windows with easy-clean hinges leave a gap on the hinge side for cleaning
What is the best way to clean uPVC window frames?
Remove loose dirt first, then wipe the frame with warm soapy water and a microfibre cloth. Avoid bleach and abrasive cleaners.
Why won’t my uPVC window open fully?
A restrictor may be engaged, or the hinges may be the standard type that limits how far the window opens.
Can fully opening a uPVC window damage it?
Not if done correctly. Damage usually happens when the handle is forced or a heavy sash isn’t supported.
Which uPVC windows are easiest to clean?
Reversible and tilt & turn windows, because you can clean both sides of the glass from inside.
Want Windows That Are Easier to Clean?
If cleaning your current windows is difficult, especially upstairs, tilt & turn or reversible windows can make it much easier. Trade uPVC Windows is a family-run company that has supplied and installed A-rated uPVC windows across Glasgow and the Central Belt since 2013. We’ll measure for free and give you a no-obligation quote.
