With warmer days and nights on the horizon, you might want to open your windows to let in the fresh air! That means it’s time to remove, clean and store your insulating window inserts. We want your inserts to last a long time so they can keep you warm and help you save money on your heating bills, for many years to come.

Take a look at the information and tips we provide on how to remove, clean and store your inserts and have a wonderful spring and summer!

Removing Inserts

To remove your inserts, gently pull on the pull tab at the bottom of your inserts. If your inserts do not have pull tabs, you can use a stiff spatula or a paint can opener to remove your inserts. Slip the spatula between the insert and the window at one of the lower corners to break the seal and gently pull towards you. Once one corner is out, you can gently pull the rest of the insert out with your hands and carefully remove it. When you remove your inserts, be careful not to bump the plastic on anything that might puncture it.

Cleaning Inserts 

The plastic on inserts can collect dust, so if you want to clean them quickly before you store them away, use a microfiber or very soft dust cloth. Do not use bath towels or paper towels because both can scratch the plastic. If the inserts need more than a dusting, you can use any spray window cleaner and a microfiber or very soft cloth to gently wipe the plastic clean. Gentle, even pressure on the plastic is not harmful. 

Storing Inserts

There are many places in your home that can be good storage areas for your inserts. The goal is to store them in a place where they will be well protected so that they will be ready to use when the weather turns cold again in the fall. Choose a storage area away from foot traffic – a place where they won’t be moved or bumped. Make sure there are no sharp objects or things that could catch and rip or puncture the plastic when choosing a storage area. 

Important Storage Tips:

• Inserts can be stored in the back of a coat closet, behind a bureau or bookcase that has been pulled back from the wall, in a dry basement, or under a bed. If storing them laying flat, we recommend placing pieces of cardboard in between them and on top of them to protect the film.
• Store the standing inserts out of direct sunlight on a flat, dry surface that will not dent the foam.
• Do not store the inserts in closed plastic bags. You want air to be able to move around the inserts to prevent mold or mildew.
• Do not store inserts in an attic – these spaces may get very hot and cause damage to the wood and plastic of the inserts.
• Cover your inserts with an old sheet or cloth to help protect them and keep them clean.
• If you are storing your inserts vertically, consider storing inserts upside-down from how they are placed in the windows. When inserts are installed, the foam on the bottom gets compressed more than the other foam edges due to gravity. Storing inserts upside-down will give the bottom foam a chance to “rest” and expand during the off season and will prolong the life of the bottom foam.
• Consider leaving some inserts in place during the summer months if you do not plan to open the window. However, do NOT leave inserts in skylights or south-facing windows exposed to direct summer sun. Excessive heat trapped between the window and the insert can damage its film.