Keeping sliding door tracks clean is essential for smooth operation and preventing costly repairs from eventuating. Regular maintenance prevents dirt, dust and debris from accumulating, which can hinder the door’s mechanism and essentially become a safety hazard in your premises. Neglected tracks may even require expensive repairs or even replacement. To avoid such expenses, incorporate both routine and deep cleaning into your maintenance routine for your home, office or even medical centre.
Table of Contents
Before You Begin Cleaning Your Sliding Door Tracks
Prior to tackling the cleaning of your sliding door tracks, take a thorough assessment of the area in the same way you would if cleaning an electrical appliance in your kitchen, such as an oven or air fryer. Observe the level of dirt accumulation and inspect for any necessary repairs or maintenance tasks. Fully open the sliding door to access the track and scrutinise it for signs of dents, corrosion, leaks, misalignment of wheels, loose or absent hardware, or malfunctioning locking mechanisms.
Should you find the tracks heavily soiled, proceed with the provided guidelines for a comprehensive deep cleaning.
Cleaning Equipment Required
| Equipment/Tools | Cleaning Material |
| Vacuum | Dishwashing Detergent |
| Broom | Silicone Lubricant |
| Toothbrush | |
| Microfibre Cloth | |
| Drying Cloth |
Sliding Door Tracks Cleaning Instructions
Step-By-Step Cleaning Guide
Step 1 (Sweep Tracks Clean):
Begin by sweeping the tracks and the surrounding exterior of the sliding door with a broom to remove any dirt and debris.
Step 2 (Vacuum Tracks):
Utilise a standard vacuum equipped with a crevice or hose attachment, a shop vac, or a handheld vacuum to thoroughly vacuum the tracks and the adjacent areas on both sides of the stationary door, eliminating dirt and other particles.
Step 3 (Clean Tracks):
To tidy up the sliding door tracks, take a damp microfibre cloth and wipe down the tracks, ensuring to cover the area around the stationary door as well. For any stubborn buildup that doesn’t come off easily, you can apply a small quantity of dish soap onto the damp cloth, or alternatively, use a toothbrush dipped in diluted dish soap to scrub away the persistent grime from the tracks.
Step 4 (Rinse Clean & Allow to Dry):
After cleaning the tracks thoroughly, rinse them adequately to eliminate any soap residue. Next, use a rag or an old towel to wipe away any water droplets from the tracks. Finally, ensure to let the tracks air dry completely.
Step 5 (Silicone Tracks):
Apply the appropriate amount of silicone lubricant, specifically formulated for sliding door tracks, to both the track and the wheels. Move the door along the track a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly. While doing so, pay attention to any areas where the door catches, and inspect for remaining dirt that requires removal or repairs that need attention.
How Often Should You Clean Your Sliding Door Tracks
Once you’ve finished the detailed process of cleaning your door tracks, make it a habit to conduct a thorough deep clean at least every other month. Regular maintenance, such as weekly sweeping to clear debris from the tracks and vacuuming to eliminate dirt and other particles, helps prolong the intervals between more extensive deep cleaning sessions, saving you time and effort.
Cleaning Sliding Door Tracks FAQs
1. Can I use WD40 on my sliding glass door tracks?
Before applying any lubricant to your door tracks, consult your sliding door manufacturer to confirm what products are safe for use. WD40 is suitable for stainless steel, aluminum, bronze, copper, and brass tracks.
To clean with WD40, spray along the length of the track and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, slide the door gently along the track to spread the lubricant. Your sliding door should operate smoothly after this process.
2. How Can I Remove Rust from My Sliding Door Tracks?
Here’s a straightforward and effective way to remove rust from your door tracks: Take a piece of steel wool and delicately scrub away the rust. Afterward, use a clean damp cloth to wipe off any remaining residue, and then dry the area thoroughly with a microfibre towel.
3. Can I Use Baking Soda on my Door Track?
Baking soda, also known as bicarbonate of soda, offers a natural cleaning solution for your sliding glass door tracks. Create your own cleaning mixture by combining baking soda with vinegar. Apply the solution as you would a conventional soap cleaner. Once applied, use a damp cloth to scrub away any remaining residue, then dry the area thoroughly with a clean microfibre towel.
Our Final Say on Cleaning Sliding Door Tracks
If you’re unsure about tackling the job yourself or feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task, consider enlisting the help of professional bond cleaners. These specialised cleaning services are experts in providing thorough cleaning at the conclusion of your lease and know what real estate agents look for. By hiring them, you can simply sit back and relax, knowing that your property will be returned to its original fresh and clean state. It’s a convenient solution that ensures peace of mind throughout the process and if you are renting the property, it may be the one thing that results in getting your full bond back.
We’ve cleaned sliding door tracks a thousand times or more, don’t hesitate to contact us or check out our blog for more information. We can also reveal other cleaning tips, from 7 Signs You Desperately Need a New Cleaning Company to How to Clean Tile Grout: A Complete Guide. We’re professionals in the commercial cleaning and domestic industry and are ready to help in almost any way we can.