You have cleaned your windows, but you still can't see outside? Check those screens! They keep those pesky minute insects out, but they also trap pesky minute dust particles. If you change your screens to storm windows each winter, you have likely already learned that if you have many similar sized windows, it is easiest if everything is labelled, so multiple trips up and down the ladder can be avoided. If you are embarking on your first screen cleaning, mark the screens BEFORE you take them down. (An "up" arrow and a number or letter, with a corresponding digit on the frame).

Use your kids wading pool, or make a screen cleaner with four 2X4's and a tarp or sheet of plastic. Lay the 2X4's in the shape of a frame on your patio, cover with the plastic sheet or a tarp, and fill with water (hot if possible) and a teaspoon or so of dish detergent.

Lay the screen in your little pool, and using a nylon brush, scrub each side of the screen. Rinse thoroughly with your garden hose, and then stand up to dry.

Before re-installing screens, check for damage, and repair any holes or tears. Most home centers have screen repair kits available this time of year.