How To Clean Fly Screens?

While living in warm countries can have its benefits, there are also certain setbacks associated with the weather. From heat waves to forest fires, warm climates can cause great discomfort, especially when it comes to flies and small insects. 

Because of this, many people now utilize fly screens to reduce the number of bugs entering their homes. And while fly screens can be extremely useful, this does not mean that they don’t come with their own set of problems. 

For example, fly screens can become incredibly dirty, which is why you should clean them on a regular basis. So if you want to know how you can clean your fly screens to the best of your ability, then you have come to the right place. 

In the following article, our commercial cleaners are going to teach you how to clean your fly screen using cleaning products found in your home. We have also included numerous methods that can be used to approach the household task. 

So if you want to keep your fly screens squeaky clean, this article has everything you need to get started… 

How To Clean Fly Screens? 

While the notion of cleaning fly screens may sound complicated, the process itself is a lot easier than you might think. 

In the sections below, we have outlined the best method for approaching the task, as well as everything you will need to get the job done: 

What You Will Need 

• Old towels (x2) 
• Empty spray bottles (x2) 
• White vinegar 
• Brush or soft sponge 

Method

1. Take one of the two empty spray bottles and fill it about halfway with clean cold water. 
2. Once you have done this, fill the rest of the spray bottle up with distilled white vinegar. 
3. Before you can start cleaning your fly screens, you will need to remove them from the doors and windows (when applicable).
4. To remove unwanted debris, use a vacuum cleaner on each side of the screens or wipe them down with a microfiber cloth. 
5. When you have completed the previous steps, take the fly screen and lay it flat on a towel on the ground. 
6. Once the fly screens have been secured, spray them with a liberal amount of vinegar solution. 
7. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before gently scrubbing the screen with a brush or sponge. 
8. When you have completed one side, flip the fly screen over and repeat the process until both sides are clean. 
9. Take the second empty spray bottle and fill it to the top with clean water before using it to spray down both sides of the screen. 
10. Once both sides have been sprayed, take a clean towel and gently wipe down both sides of the screen. 
11. When the fly screens are finished, reinstall them on your home or vehicle and allow them to dry. 

And there you have it, that is how you can clean your fly screens. If there is any dirt left behind, then you can repeat this process until the screens are clean. 

If your fly screens are particularly dirty, then it is possible to add some biodegradable dish soap to the first spray bottle, as this will help to increase the effectiveness of the cleaning solution. 

How To Maintain Fly Screens? 

Cleaning fly screens can be a long and tedious process, especially when you have to detach the screens from your doors and windows. 

Fortunately, there are other methods that can be used to maintain the condition of your screens, with some even allowing you to keep the screen attached: 

Vacuum Cleaner 

While it may seem strange, one of the easiest ways to keep your screens clean is to vacuum them. Not only does this method allow you to get rid of unwanted debris, but it also doesn’t require the screens to be removed. 

Essential Oil & Baking Soda 

This notable mixture can be used to make a powerful cleaning solution, which will allow you to keep your fly screens clean and in good condition. All you have to do is combine 4 cups of water with 4 teaspoons of baking soda and a few drops of essential oil. 

Once the solution has been mixed together, you can put it in a clean spray bottle and use it to wash down your fly screens. For the best results, we recommend using a scented oil such as thyme, cinnamon, or clove. 

Fluff Brush 

This cleaning utensil can be found in most households across the country, as it is commonly used for clothing and textiles. Fortunately, the brush can also be used to clean your fly screens, as the powerful bristles are able to remove fine dust and cobwebs. 

Microfiber Cloth 

A household item found around the world, microfiber cloths can be easily moistened and used to wipe down your fly screens, as they help to remove caked dust and unwanted debris. 

Liquid Soap 

There is no need to purchase specific or expensive cleaning products, as it is possible to clean your fly screens using common liquid soap. 

This product is particularly effective in obtaining a clean finish, although it does require you to remove the fly screens from the frame. 

If you want to know more about this method, we have detailed the process in the following instructions… 

Using Liquid Soap To Clean Fly Screens 

This method is a relatively simple approach to cleaning your fly screens, as it requires only several items and does not involve any dangerous chemicals.

Of course, the only setback is that you will have to remove the fly screens from their frames before beginning the cleaning process: 

What You Will Need 

• Liquid soap 
• Large container 
• Spray bottle 
• Soft brush 
• Old towels 

Method 

1. Detach the fly screens from your home and lay them down gently on a towel on the ground. 
2. Take a large container and fill it to the brim with a combination of warm water and liquid soap. 
3. Allow the screen to soak in the solution for 5 – 10 minutes to help the product penetrate the screen. 
4. When enough time has passed, gently rub down the screen with a brush or sponge. During this process, you will need to be gentle as vigorous scrubbing could damage the screen. 
5. Rinse the finished fly screen with cold water to remove any soap or residue before placing it in a shaded area to dry. 
6. Make sure to keep the screens out of direct sunlight, as this could wear down the material and cause future damage. 

If you are unable to place your fly screens in a large container, it is also possible to administer the solution using a spray bottle. 

However, this approach may not deliver the desired results, which means you may need to seek another method to clean your screens. 

Final Thoughts 

For the best results, it is advisable to clean your fly screens once or twice a year, although this number could change depending on the state of your screens. 

However, this does not mean that you should constantly wash your screens, as too much handling could make the material tear.