Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes (fingers crossed!) the exact conditions that your plants need to thrive.

But, in order to ensure they can soak up that sunshine, you need to check that your greenhouse is up to the task.

To get your greenhouse ready for summer, one of the key jobs on your to-do list should be a full deep clean.

Not sure where to start? Keep reading to find our comprehensive guide to cleaning greenhouse glass, including our experts’ top tips for cleaning both the inside and outside of the greenhouse glass.

Why is greenhouse glass cleaning important?

It might sound like a bit of a chore, but cleaning your greenhouse glass unlocks a long list of great benefits – for both you and your plants!

The benefits of a clean greenhouse include:

• Maximising the level of light that your plants have access to
• Ensuring your plants grow as successfully as possible (as greater sunlight promotes more photosynthesis)
• Removing dirt, dust, moss and algae (all of which can block sunlight)
• Creating an optimal growing environment
• Reducing the risk of pests or pathogens developing inside the greenhouse (this is because sunlight is also an extremely effective sanitiser)
• Minimising the risk of glass getting scratched or damaged over time
• Keeping your greenhouse looking pristine

Cleaning Equipment List

• Bucket
• A standard garden brush
• Rubber gloves
• A squeegee
• Sponges
• Soft, dry microfibre cloths
• Warm water
• A plant-friendly cleaning soap
• White wine vinegar

Step by Step: Cleaning your Greenhouse

• Remove any plants from your greenhouse, and keep them in a sheltered area until you’ve finished cleaning.
• Carefully inspect the entirety of the greenhouse, checking that there are no signs of damage or worn parts.
• Check the gutters, and remove any debris that could cause a blockage.
• Brush the floors of your greenhouse, removing any soil and debris.
• If you find any weeds, remove them from the greenhouse and treat the area with weed killer.
• Prepare your cleaning solution, by adding the cleaning soap to a bucket of warm water (following the manufacturer’s instructions).
• Apply the solution to the greenhouse glass using a sponge and a squeegee. Clean the glass using circular motions. Then remove with a squeegee (rinsing the squeegee clean after each use).
• Pay attention to any more stubborn algae on the glass, which can’t be removed using the soap. For these areas, apply a small amount of diluted white wine vinegar using a sponge, and scrub the algae away.
• Once the soap has dried, buff the glass using microfibre cloths, to remove any soap marks, and leave a streak-free shine. Repeat steps 6-8 for both the outside and inside of the greenhouse glass.
• Allow the soap to dry, before returning your plants to the greenhouse.

What is the best time of year to clean a greenhouse?

The best time of year to clean a greenhouse depends on the purpose you’re using it for.

If you’re growing fruit and veg in the greenhouse, then we recommend cleaning it during the winter (as your crops will have finished at this point in the year).

If you’re using it to raise seedlings, then spring or autumn are the best times of year for greenhouse cleaning, as this will allow you to clean in between crops.

Or, if you’re using your greenhouse to store plants during the winter, wait till the spring to start cleaning (as this will ensure that your plants are able to survive outside during your clean).

Ideally, try to time your cleaning for a dry, sunny day, as this will help the cleaning solutions to dry faster (and ensure your plants are happy while they’re kept outside!).

If you need replacement glass for your greenhouse, get in touch with Abbey Glass today.