Dust and dirt often collect in hard to reach areas and when cleaning sliding door tracks this can actually be challenging. However, if maintenance and care are lacking, opening such doors can become problematic and, above all, costly over time. This should prompt you to include such problem areas when spring cleaning. Luckily, there are some tried and simple home cleaning methods you can use to take care of this usually tedious household task. To do this, follow the steps and tips described below to make the cleaning process easier and ensure smooth door opening.
What is the best way to clean sliding door tracks?
In order to prevent such gates from being difficult to push, it is particularly important to use suitable cleaning products and cleaning techniques. As already written, you should also regularly maintain the rails of sliding doors so that they are free of sticky residueDirt in gapsremain. In fact, such accumulations could hinder the mechanism of the door, which also requires occasional checking. Additionally, improperly maintained door mechanisms and tracks can lead to expensive repairs. In the worst case scenario, you will have to expect a complete replacement. To prevent all of this from happening, it would be advisable to be able to clean your sliding door tracks both routinely and thoroughly.
What causes sliding doors to get stuck?
The causes of sliding doors being prevented from opening can primarily occur at entrances to the outside area. Doors often get stuck there, with a dirty or debris-filled track being one of the most common reasons for this. Many people feel self-conscious in such cases, but a sticky splint doesn't necessarily mean that you have toRepair dooror need to replace. However, cleaning patio door tracks is the first and most important step necessary for them to function smoothly.
What factors to consider before cleaning your sliding door tracks?
The first step before the actual cleaning task is to estimate the extent of contamination on the corresponding running rail. Check how much dirt is in it and whether it needs any repairs or maintenance. To do this, try to fully open the sliding door and inspect the area for misaligned door wheels, dents, corrosion, leaks, missing or loose door hardware, or broken locking mechanisms.
For moderately dirty spaces, routine cleaning with soapy water would usually be sufficient. However, if the rails are heavily contaminated, basic cleaning requires the use of more effective household remedies such as baking soda and vinegar. Additionally, you should first start by pushing the door all the way out of the way and inspecting both sides for problems. Pay attention to possible signs of a more thorough cleaning and proceed gradually, using cleaning tools such as a vacuum cleaner (possibly a robot vacuum cleaner), hand brush or broom, microfiber cloth, old toothbrush, clean rags, dish soap, baking soda, distilled white vinegar and lubricant.
Sweeping and vacuuming loose dirt particles
First, you can use a broom or hand brush to remove loose dirt from the inside and outside of the sliding door. Hand vacuum cleaners or robots, which are now equipped with efficient attachments, are also suitable for this. Of course, you can also complete this task with a conventional device by using the appropriate attachment. You should also make sure to vacuum both sides of the stationary door, as dust and stones can quickly accumulate there due to access to the outside area. In addition, vacuuming is the most efficient method to remove larger dirt particles before cleaning sliding door tracks.
Continue wiping and cleaning sliding door tracks
First, you can start by wiping the outside and inside of the track and fixed door with a damp microfiber cloth. You can use a simple cleaning solution made from dish soap and water. Try to stick the cloth into the narrow gaps to remove as much dirt as possible. If the stains are stubborn and difficult to remove, you can scrub them more intensively with a toothbrush dipped in soapy water. Then look at the rail and assess any remaining dirt to potentially move on to the next step.
Rinse the area if necessary and allow to dry
If the rail doesn't look completely clean, you can treat the surface again with dishwashing liquid and a kitchen sponge to get rid of any remaining dirt. Then take a clean rag or an old but clean towel to wipe away water droplets from the surface. It's best to let everything air dry completely before using any additional cleaning products from your supplies. In addition, while it is drying, you can check whether the door rail has any dirt despite thorough cleaning or after it was overlooked. If this is the case, you can move on to the next step.
Use baking soda and vinegar as effective home remedies to clean the sliding door rails
If you are still dealing with stubborn dirt after cleaning, some further measures are necessary. Luckily, stubborn stains can easily be treated with a stronger cleaning solution. In addition, you can get hard-to-reach dirty areas clean again with a layer of baking soda and vinegar. To do this, first sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the track, again taking into account the two sides of the door.
First, you can combine equal parts distilled white vinegar and water in a clean spray bottle. Then spray the baking soda-treated area thinly with the vinegar solution and let the stuff sit for a few minutes. You will notice how the treated area begins to bubble, whichreleases the dirt. This allows you to quickly and effectively remove stuck-on dirt in hard-to-reach places without damaging the door. You can also scrub with an old toothbrush to get even cleaner results.
Apply lubricant and test the door track
There are numerous products on the market specifically designed to lubricate sliding doors. However, read the label to see if the lubricant is suitable for the materials your door is made of. This will prevent any damage and ensure safe functionality. According to instructions, apply the recommended amount to the track and wheels and slide the door back and forth. If necessary, note the places where it gets stuck and look carefully for any remaining dirt. If the sliding door has already been cleaned, you can better see whether a repair is necessary. Perform a deep cleaning every two months and sweep loose dirt every week to prevent future problems.
