Using gentle cleaning products that are safe for the surface you are cleaning, start with washing down the door. You may want to sanitize the handles, as they are used frequently and can harbor germs.
Next, wipe any areas that have scratches. Those marks can be filled in with exterior-grade touch-up paint that is compatible with your steel door. More by clicking here.
Cleaning a Painted Door
If your back door is painted, be sure to use gentle cleaners to prevent fading or chipping of the paint. A diluted solution of mild dish soap and water is strong enough to remove dirt but gentle on the paint. Use a cloth or sponge dipped in the cleaning solution to wipe the door, rinsing well to avoid drip marks.
If you have wood trim or other features on your painted door, clean those as well, especially if they are exposed to the elements. Smudges and fingerprints can accumulate quickly. A terry cloth towel is best for dusting, but you can also use a spray cleaner to remove smudges.
Depending on your household, you may choose to do this deep cleaning once or twice each year. Schedule a time and date in your calendar or on any shared family calendars to help you remember. The more often you clean your doors, the less maintenance they will require over time.
Cleaning a Wood Door
Wood doors are beautiful and durable, but they’re also subject to knocks, scuff marks, and stains. Cleaning wood doors regularly will help keep them in good shape, prevent smudges and marks from becoming more stubborn, and will make them look new again.
Start by removing any loose dirt on your door’s surface with a dry rag or brush. Then, wipe down the entire door from top to bottom with warm water and soap. Be sure to include the narrow inner edges of the door as well. When you’re finished, wipe down the door again with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
If you notice more stubborn marks or smudges on your wood door, you can use mineral spirits to remove them. Be sure to test the solution on a small area first, and always use caution when working with any solvent. This method is especially useful for oily scuff marks or fingerprints.
Cleaning a Metal Door
Metal doors are usually made from steel for strength and durability, and they need to be cleaned on a regular basis. This is especially true for those who are exposed to the elements, like garage and shed doors. Rust and paint can often build up on these types of doors, but a little work will get them looking great again.
Use mild soap and water with a clean cloth to remove any build-up on your metal door. If you have some stubborn stains that require more than gentle wiping, try using a wire brush or sandpaper to scrape the surface of the metal.
You can also use a mild metal polish on your back door to give it a nice shine. Apply the polish to a soft cloth, and rub the door in a circular motion. Once the metal is shiny and clean, rinse it off with a hose. Performing these cleaning tasks regularly will keep your back door in tip-top shape and functioning properly.
Cleaning a Glass Door
Since glass doors tend to get heavy traffic and usage, they are prone to smudges and smears. To help them stay clean and smudge-free, it is recommended to wipe down the door and frame with a dry cloth before washing it with a solution. Then, use a scouring pad on any stains to scrub them away. Finally, polish the metal door hardware lightly after cleaning.
For a quick and easy way to keep your glass doors looking great, mix a bucket of mild dish soap with water and dip a clean cloth into the solution. Wipe down the glass surface and wait a few minutes for the soap to loosen any stuck-on dirt. Once the surface is completely clean, squeeze it dry or use paper towels to buff it.
Remember to do this regularly rather than occasionally, as dirt tends to build up in the corners and creases of glass doors, making them more difficult to clean later on. Also, try to do this on a cloudy day so the sun does not dry the soapy wash before you can squeeze it dry. Next article.