Dusting is one of our readers' most dreaded chores, and we get it—it's a tedious task that most of us don't love doing. But when it comes to windowsills, staying on top of regular cleaning can improve your home's indoor air quality and, of course, its appearance.

Cleaning windowsills is an easy, straightforward job that takes only a few minutes. Below is our step-by-step guide to doing it the proper way.

1. Dust and/or Vacuum

Windowsills get dusty fast. Both indoor and outdoor pollutants, including dirt, pollen, hair, and dander, settle on windowsills over time, leaving a layer of dust that should be removed before liquid cleaners are introduced to the surface. Use a dry microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a soft-bristled brush attachment or crevice tool to pick up as much debris as possible. This step is especially important if it's been a while since you last cleaned the sills.

2. Use a Liquid Cleaner to Wipe the Sill

Once the top layer of dust has been removed from windowsills, use a damp microfiber cloth or rag to wipe the surface. A small amount of dish soap, all-purpose cleaning spray, or a pre-moistened wipe can also be used to lift grime and other buildup from a windowsill. If you use a cleaning agent to wipe down a windowsill, be sure to go over the area to remove any residue, which can leave a sticky film that traps dust.

3. Remove Scuffs and Stains with an Eraser Sponge

Windowsills are prone to scuff marks, dings, and small scratches. To remove them, use an eraser sponge, such as a Magic Eraser, to gently buff them out. To use an eraser sponge, start by wetting it thoroughly and wringing it out well so it is just barely damp; then go over the scuffed or stained area with gentle pressure. Note that the sponge will disintegrate with use, just like a pencil eraser.

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How to Keep Windowsills Clean

The best way to keep windowsills clean is to add dusting them to your regular cleaning routine. While windowsills typically don't need to be cleaned weekly, if you frequently keep your windows open or live in a household with pets that shed, weekly or biweekly dusting is recommended.

For everyone else, dusting windowsills once a month or every other month will be sufficient to keep buildup at bay. To maximize efficiency, pair windowsill cleaning with dusting the blinds or vacuuming fabric window treatments as part of your overall window cleaning and maintenance routine.