What Do Window Cleaners Use to Clean Windows: Professional Tools & Techniques (2026)

📖 24 min read

What do window cleaners use to clean windows is something I’m asked constantly by clients who watch me work and wonder how I get their windows spotless in minutes when they’ve spent hours with newspaper and Windex achieving mediocre results. After 18 years as a professional cleaner, I can tell you the difference isn’t magical skill – it’s using the right tools and techniques. Professional window cleaners rely on a surprisingly simple toolkit: a quality squeegee, a scrubber, the right cleaning solution, and proper technique. That’s it. No fancy chemicals, no expensive gadgets, just professional-grade basics used correctly.

What makes this guide different is that I’ll show you exactly what to buy, why professionals choose specific tools over others, and how to use them properly. I’ve tested dozens of window cleaning products and I’ll recommend only what actually works, with realistic Amazon UK links so you can buy the same tools I use professionally.

The Core Professional Window Cleaning Toolkit

Let me break down exactly what professional window cleaners carry and why each tool matters.

1. The Squeegee – The Most Important Tool

This is the professional’s secret weapon. A squeegee is a T-shaped tool with a rubber blade that pulls water and cleaning solution off glass in one smooth stroke, leaving zero streaks when used correctly.

Why professionals use squeegees:

• Removes all water in one pass (cloths can’t do this)
• No lint or fibres left behind
• Faster than any other method
• Works in any weather
• Lasts for years with blade replacements

What to buy:

The GBPro Professional Window Squeegee is exactly what I use professionally. It comes in multiple sizes (15cm, 25cm, 35cm, 45cm) – I recommend the 35cm for most home windows. The stainless steel handle and quality rubber blade make all the difference.

Key features of a good squeegee:

• Quality rubber blade (not cheap plastic)
• Stainless steel or brass channel (holds the blade firmly)
• Comfortable handle with good grip
• Replaceable blades (professional squeegees have this)
• Rigid construction (no wobble)

Sizes you need:

• 15-25cm: Small windows, bathroom mirrors, shower screens
• 35cm: Standard home windows (most versatile)
• 45cm+: Large patio doors, commercial windows

I own three squeegees in different sizes. The 35cm handles 80% of residential work.

2. The Scrubber/Applicator (Also Called a Washer)

Before you squeegee, you need to apply cleaning solution and loosen dirt. That’s where the scrubber comes in.

What it is: A T-bar tool with a microfiber or sponge sleeve that you wet with cleaning solution, then scrub the window to loosen dirt, bird droppings, and grime.

What professionals use:

The scrubber often comes as part of a kit. The Window Cleaning Kit with Extension Poles includes both a 14-inch silicone squeegee and microfiber scrubber – exactly what professionals use for standard residential work.

Why not just use a cloth?

• Cloths don’t hold enough solution
• They don’t scrub effectively
• Professional scrubbers are designed to work with squeegees (same width)
• Microfiber sleeves are washable and last for years

I use a scrubber for every window. Spray the solution, scrub thoroughly for 30 seconds to loosen everything, then squeegee off. This two-step process is essential.

3. Telescopic Extension Poles

For any window above ground floor, you need reach. Professional window cleaners don’t climb ladders for routine cleaning – they use extension poles.

Why extension poles matter:

• Clean upstairs windows from the ground safely
• No ladder setup time
• Faster and safer
• Reach conservatory roofs and high windows

What to buy:

For most homes, the 4.5M Window Squeegee Cleaner Tool Kit gives you excellent reach (about 15 feet). It includes both squeegee and scrubber attachments, and the 2-in-1 design means you can clean high windows completely from the ground.

For even higher windows or commercial work, the 4M/157″ Long Reach Window Cleaning Equipment extends to nearly 13 feet with a 270° rotating head – brilliant for awkward angles.

Pole length guide:

• 2-3 metres: Single-storey homes, ground floor exterior
• 4-5 metres: Two-storey homes, most residential work
• 6+ metres: Three-storey homes, commercial buildings

I have two poles – a 3-metre for everyday use and a 5-metre for tall properties. The extending design means they store compactly.

Features that matter:

• Lightweight aluminium construction
• Secure locking mechanisms (poles that slip are dangerous)
• Universal attachment thread (fits different squeegees)
• Comfortable grip section
• Rotating head (for awkward angles)

4. Microfiber Cloths

Even with perfect squeegee technique, you need cloths for detailing.

What professionals use them for:

• Drying window edges and frames
• Catching drips
• Wiping the squeegee blade between strokes
• Final polish of any tiny marks
• Cleaning window sills

What to buy: Standard microfiber cloths from any supermarket work fine. I buy packs of 10 from Wilko or Amazon for about £8. You want:

• Lint-free (crucial for windows)
• Good absorbency
• Washable
• Multiple cloths (clean ones for each job)

I always carry 4-5 clean microfiber cloths. One for drying edges, one for wiping the squeegee, one as backup.

Why not use old t-shirts or newspaper?

• T-shirts leave lint
• Newspaper leaves ink smudges and takes ages
• Neither are as absorbent as microfiber
• Microfiber costs pennies and lasts for years

5. Bucket

Professionals use a dedicated window cleaning bucket with a solution of water and cleaner.

What makes a good window cleaning bucket:

• 5-10 litre capacity (enough for a full house)
• Handle for carrying
• Wide enough to dip your scrubber
• Preferably light-coloured so you can see dirt

I use a standard plastic bucket from B&Q (£3). Nothing fancy needed.

6. Solution Applicator (Spray Bottle – Optional)

Some professionals spray solution directly onto windows rather than dipping a scrubber. This works well for:

• Small jobs (a few windows)
• Interior windows
• Quick touch-ups
• When you don’t want to carry a bucket

I use both methods depending on the job. Bucket and scrubber for a full house exterior clean, spray bottle for interior or small jobs.

What Cleaning Solution Do Professional Window Cleaners Use?

This surprises most people – professionals don’t use expensive specialty products.

The Professional Formula

Most common: Water + small amount of washing-up liquid (Fairy, Ecover, any gentle dish soap)

Ratio: 2-3 drops of washing-up liquid per litre of water

That’s it. This simple solution:

• Cuts through grease and dirt
• Rinses clean without residue
• Costs virtually nothing
• Works in all weather
• Doesn’t damage window frames or seals

Why so little soap? Too much soap leaves a residue that causes streaking. Professional window cleaners want just enough to loosen dirt, not create a bubble bath.

Alternative Professional Solutions

Window cleaning concentrate: Products like Windowlene Professional Concentrate (available at trade suppliers) are used by some professionals. Mix according to directions – usually very diluted.

Deionised water (for pure water systems): Some professional window cleaners use pure water systems with deionised water that leaves no mineral deposits. This is specialist equipment costing thousands – not needed for home use.

What I use: Fairy Liquid and water, 2 drops per litre. I’ve used this for 18 years professionally and it works perfectly. I’ve tested expensive window cleaning concentrates and honestly, I can’t tell the difference in results.

DIY Solution: Vinegar and Water

Ratio: 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water

This works well for:

• Light cleaning
• Interior windows
• Maintenance between deep cleans
• If you prefer natural solutions

Limitations:

• Doesn’t cut grease as well as soap
• Strong vinegar smell (dissipates when dry)
• Not ideal for exterior windows with heavy dirt

What Professionals DON’T Use

Windex and spray glass cleaners: Too expensive for professional use, and they don’t work any better than soap and water. A professional cleaning 30 windows can’t spray each one individually – it’s too slow and costly.

Newspaper: This old myth won’t die. Newspaper leaves ink smudges, takes forever, and doesn’t work as well as a squeegee. No professional uses newspaper.

Paper towels: Same problems as newspaper – leaves lint, slow, expensive, wasteful.

Methylated spirits: Some people recommend this. It works but it’s harsh, smells terrible, and offers no advantage over soap and water.

The Professional Window Cleaning Technique

Having the right tools means nothing without proper technique. Here’s the exact method professional window cleaners use.

Step 1 – Prepare Your Solution

1. Fill your bucket with clean lukewarm water
2. Add 2-3 drops of washing-up liquid per litre
3. Mix gently – you don’t want lots of bubbles

Step 2 – Wet and Scrub the Window

1. Dip your scrubber in the solution
2. Wring out excess (it should be wet but not dripping heavily)
3. Scrub the entire window in overlapping strokes
4. Pay extra attention to edges and corners where dirt accumulates
5. Make sure the entire window is thoroughly wet

For exterior windows with heavy dirt:

• Scrub for 30-60 seconds minimum
• Use circular motions for stubborn spots
• Don’t rush this step – loosening dirt is crucial

For interior windows:

• Light scrubbing is usually enough
• 15-20 seconds per window

Step 3 – Squeegee Off the Solution

This is where technique matters most.

The horizontal method (easiest for beginners):

1. Start at the top left corner
2. Place the squeegee at a slight angle (about 45 degrees)
3. Pull horizontally across to the right
4. Wipe the blade on your cloth
5. Move down slightly (overlap by about 2cm)
6. Pull the next stroke, slightly overlapping the previous one
7. Continue until you reach the bottom
8. Do a final vertical stroke on each edge to catch drips

The vertical method (faster when you’re experienced):

1. Start at the top right
2. Pull straight down in a vertical stroke
3. Wipe the blade
4. Overlap slightly and pull another vertical stroke
5. Continue across the window

The S-pattern (advanced professional technique):

Professional window cleaners often use a continuous S-pattern on large windows. This is faster but requires practice.

1. Start at top left
2. Pull diagonally to the right
3. Curve back to the left in an S-shape
4. Continue without lifting the squeegee
5. Finish at bottom right

Critical technique points:

• Keep the blade at 45 degrees – too upright or too flat causes streaks
• Apply even pressure – not too hard, not too light
• Overlap each stroke by 2-3cm
• Wipe the blade after every single stroke
• Keep the blade flat against the glass – no gaps

Step 4 – Detail and Dry

1. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe window edges
2. Dry the window sill
3. Catch any drips on the frame
4. Check for any marks or streaks and touch up with the squeegee

For perfect results:

• Work quickly – don’t let the window dry before you squeegee
• In hot weather or direct sun, work faster or move to shaded windows first
• In winter, the solution doesn’t dry as fast so you have more time

I can clean a standard window in under 5 minutes – 30 seconds scrubbing, 2-3 minutes squeegeeing, 1 minute detailing. When you develop the technique, it’s incredibly fast.

Equipment for Different Window Types

Not all windows are the same. Here’s what professionals use for different situations.

Ground Floor Exterior Windows

Tools needed:

• Standard 35cm squeegee
• Scrubber
• Bucket with solution
• Microfiber cloths

Method: Standard technique from outside. This is the easiest type of window cleaning.

Upstairs Exterior Windows

Tools needed:

• Extension pole (4-5 metres)
• Pole-mounted squeegee
• Pole-mounted scrubber
• Bucket with solution

Method: Work from the ground using the extension pole. The 4.5M Window Squeegee Cleaner Tool Kit is perfect for this – it includes everything you need for high window cleaning.

Technique differences:

• Use more solution (it drips down as you work)
• Work in larger sections
• Squeegee top to bottom rather than side to side
• It’s harder to see your work – check from inside after

Interior Windows

Tools needed:

• Smaller squeegee (25-35cm)
• Spray bottle or small scrubber
• Microfiber cloths
• Something to protect floors from drips

Method: Lighter solution (1-2 drops per litre), spray rather than scrub, careful squeegeeing to avoid drips on carpets or furniture.

Small Windows (Bathrooms, Landing)

Tools needed:

• Small 15-25cm squeegee
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber cloths

Method: Spray, wipe with microfiber, squeegee if needed. Very small windows (under 30cm) are sometimes faster to just wipe.

Patio Doors and Large Glass

Tools needed:

• Large squeegee (45cm or bigger)
• Extension handle for lower sections
• Bucket and large scrubber

Method: Work in vertical sections. Large glass areas show every streak, so technique must be perfect.

Leaded or Georgian Windows (Small Panes)

Tools needed:

• Very small squeegee (10-15cm) or just microfiber cloths
• Spray bottle
• Detailing brushes for lead work

Method: These are tedious. Spray each small pane, wipe with microfiber, dry carefully. Professional window cleaners charge extra for Georgian windows because they take 3-4 times longer than standard windows.

What About Window Vacs?

Window vacs (electric vacuum squeegees) like Kärcher Window Vac are popular with homeowners. They’re battery-powered tools that suck dirty water into a tank as you pull them across the window.

Do professionals use window vacs?

Rarely. Some use them for specific situations (conservatories, very dirty windows), but most professional window cleaners prefer traditional squeegees.

Advantages of window vacs:

• No drips – the water goes into a tank
• Easier for complete beginners
• Good for very dirty windows (less solution runs down)
• Work well on conservatory roofs

Disadvantages:

• Slower than manual squeegees once you learn proper technique
• Battery life limits how many windows you can do
• More expensive (£50-100 vs £15-30 for squeegee)
• Another device to maintain and charge
• Don’t work well on very small windows

My opinion: Window vacs are fine for homeowners who clean windows occasionally. But if you learn proper squeegee technique, you’ll get better results faster with traditional tools. I’ve tried window vacs and went back to my squeegee after a week.

Tools for Window Tracks and Frames

Windows aren’t just glass – tracks and frames get filthy too. Professional window cleaners use:

For window tracks:

• Old toothbrushes or detail brushes
• Vacuum with crevice attachment
• Microfiber cloths
• Cotton buds for very narrow tracks

I’ve written a detailed guide on how to clean window tracks that covers this thoroughly.

For window frames (uPVC, wood, aluminium):

• Soft cloths or sponges
• Warm soapy water
• Avoid abrasive cleaners on uPVC (they scratch)
• Magic erasers for stubborn marks on uPVC

Complete Window Cleaning Kit – What to Buy

If you’re starting from scratch, here’s what I recommend:

Budget Kit (Under £30)

• Amazon Basics Extendable Window Squeegee – £12-15
• Washing-up liquid – £1
• Bucket – £3
• Pack of microfiber cloths – £5
• Spray bottle – £2

Total: About £25

This basic kit handles all interior windows and ground floor exterior windows perfectly well.

Standard Residential Kit (£50-80)

• GBPro Professional Window Squeegee 35cm – £20-25
• Window Cleaning Kit with Extension Poles (77 inches) – £25-35
• Washing-up liquid – £1
• Bucket – £3
• Pack of microfiber cloths – £5

Total: About £55-70

This is what I’d recommend for most homeowners. It handles everything including upstairs exterior windows.

Professional Complete Kit (£100-150)

• GBPro Professional Window Squeegee in three sizes (15cm, 35cm, 45cm) – £50-60
• 4.5M Window Squeegee Cleaner Tool Kit – £40-50
• Professional scrubber/applicator – £15-20
• Bucket – £5
• 20+ microfiber cloths – £15
• Replacement squeegee blades – £10

Total: About £135-200

This is what professional window cleaners carry. It handles any residential or light commercial work.

Common Window Cleaning Mistakes (That Professionals Avoid)

After 18 years, I’ve seen every mistake possible. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Using Too Much Cleaning Solution

The mistake: Adding lots of washing-up liquid thinking more = cleaner

Why it’s wrong: Excess soap leaves residue that causes streaking

Professional approach: 2-3 drops per litre maximum

2. Not Wiping the Squeegee Blade

The mistake: Pulling multiple strokes without wiping the blade

Why it’s wrong: Dirty blade redistributes dirt and water, causing streaks

Professional approach: Wipe the blade on a cloth after every single stroke

3. Working in Direct Sunlight

The mistake: Cleaning windows when the sun is directly on them

Why it’s wrong: Solution dries too fast, leaving water marks before you can squeegee

Professional approach: Work on shaded sides first, or clean on overcast days, or early morning/late afternoon

4. Using a Worn or Damaged Squeegee Blade

The mistake: Continuing to use a blade with nicks or rounded edges

Why it’s wrong: Damaged blades leave streaks no matter how good your technique

Professional approach: Replace blades every 3-6 months, immediately if damaged

5. Not Scrubbing Thoroughly Before Squeegeeing

The mistake: Quick spray and immediate squeegee

Why it’s wrong: Dirt that isn’t loosened first just smears across the glass

Professional approach: 30-60 seconds of scrubbing on dirty exterior windows

6. Squeegeeing at the Wrong Angle

The mistake: Holding the squeegee perpendicular (90 degrees) to the glass

Why it’s wrong: Water doesn’t channel properly and you get streaks

Professional approach: 45-degree angle with even pressure

7. Using Dirty Solution

The mistake: Using the same bucket of water for 20 windows

Why it’s wrong: You’re just spreading dirty water around

Professional approach: Change solution every 8-10 windows, or when it looks dirty

Maintenance of Professional Window Cleaning Tools

Quality tools last for years with basic maintenance.

Squeegee Maintenance

After each use:

• Wipe the blade clean
• Dry the channel
• Store hanging or flat (never on the blade edge)

Monthly:

• Check blade for nicks or damage
• Check channel for rust (stainless steel won’t rust, but cheaper squeegees might)
• Ensure handle is secure

Every 3-6 months:

• Replace the blade (costs £3-8)
• Check all screws and tighten if needed

Scrubber Maintenance

After each use:

• Rinse thoroughly in clean water
• Wring out excess water
• Hang to dry (don’t store wet – gets smelly)

Weekly:

• Wash microfiber sleeves in washing machine (no fabric softener)
• Check for tears or worn areas

Every 6-12 months:

• Replace worn sleeves

Extension Pole Maintenance

After each use:

• Wipe down sections
• Dry thoroughly (especially locking mechanisms)
• Collapse and store in dry place

Monthly:

• Check all locking mechanisms
• Lubricate with WD-40 if sticking
• Ensure no bent sections

Storage:

• Store extended poles horizontally or hanging
• Never lean them vertically against a wall (warps them over time)

Cost Comparison: DIY Tools vs Professional Window Cleaning Service

Is it worth buying the tools or just hiring a professional window cleaner?

Professional Window Cleaning Costs (UK Average)

Typical charges:

• Small house (10-12 windows): £25-£35
• Medium house (15-20 windows): £35-£50
• Large house (25+ windows): £50-£80
• Frequency: Every 4-8 weeks

Annual cost for regular cleaning:

• Monthly service: £300-£600/year
• Every 2 months: £150-£300/year

DIY Equipment Investment

Initial cost: £25-£150 (depending on kit chosen) Ongoing cost: £10-£20/year (replacement blades, solution)

Break-even point: Even the professional kit (£150) pays for itself after 3-4 professional cleans. If you clean your own windows just 3 times per year, you save £100-£200 annually.

Time investment:

• Learning curve: 2-3 hours to get good at technique
• Per clean once skilled: 45-90 minutes for average house

My recommendation: Buy the tools and learn to do it yourself. Professional window cleaning is one of the easiest cleaning tasks to DIY well once you have the right equipment and technique. Save the professional service for:

• Very high windows (3+ storeys)
• Awkward access (e.g., windows above conservatories)
• When you physically can’t do it (mobility issues)
• Preparing house for sale (professional finish)

Seasonal Considerations for Window Cleaning

Professional window cleaners adjust their approach by season.

Spring (March-May)

Best season for window cleaning:

• Moderate temperatures
• Lower risk of sudden rain
• Cleaning away winter grime
• Solution doesn’t dry too fast or freeze

What professionals do:

• Busiest season – everyone wants spring cleaning
• Can work efficiently without weather issues

Summer (June-August)

Challenges:

• Direct sun dries solution too fast
• Heat makes working uncomfortable

What professionals do:

• Work early morning or late afternoon
• Work on shaded sides first
• Use slightly more solution to slow drying

Autumn (September-November)

Good conditions:

• Similar to spring
• Moderate temperatures
• Preparing for winter

What professionals do:

• Second busiest season
• Clearing summer dust and cobwebs

Winter (December-February)

Challenges:

• Freezing temperatures
• Short daylight hours
• Solution can freeze on glass
• Risk of ice on paths

What professionals do:

• Add methylated spirits to prevent freezing
• Work midday when warmest
• Some professionals don’t work below 0°C
• Charge extra for winter work

Best frequency: I recommend cleaning windows 3-4 times per year – spring, summer, and autumn minimum. Winter is optional unless windows are visibly dirty.

What Professional Window Cleaners Use vs What Homeowners Think They Use

There’s a massive gap between perception and reality.

What people think professionals use:

• Expensive specialty cleaning chemicals
• Secret formulas
• High-tech equipment
• Professional-only products

What professionals actually use:

• Washing-up liquid and water
• Basic squeegees (albeit quality ones)
• Microfiber cloths
• Simple scrubbers
• Standard buckets

The difference isn’t expensive equipment or secret products. It’s:

1. Quality basic tools (£20 squeegee vs £5 squeegee)
2. Proper technique learned through practice
3. Experience knowing how different conditions affect results
4. Efficiency from doing it daily

You can achieve professional results with the exact same tools. It just takes practice.

Additional Tools Some Professionals Use

Beyond the basics, some professional window cleaners use specialist equipment:

Water Fed Poles (Pure Water Systems)

What it is: Very long telescopic poles (up to 20+ metres) with brushes that spray purified water

How it works: Deionised water has no minerals, so it dries spot-free. You scrub with the brush while water flows, then leave it to dry naturally.

Cost: £500-£3,000+ for a complete system

Who uses it: Commercial window cleaners doing high-rise work

Do you need it? No – this is only for professional businesses doing commercial work.

Ladders and Safety Equipment

What professionals use:

• Extension ladders
• Safety harnesses
• Ladder stabilizers
• Non-slip ladder feet

Important: Working from ladders requires training and safety equipment. If you’re not comfortable with heights, use extension poles or hire a professional.

Scrapers (for Paint and Adhesive)

When needed: Removing paint splatters, adhesive residue, labels

What to use: Proper glass scrapers with fresh blades

Technique: Hold at 45 degrees, glass must be wet, gentle pressure only

I keep a scraper in my kit for the occasional paint spot, but it’s not needed for regular cleaning.

Finding More Window Cleaning Information

If you want to deep-dive into window cleaning techniques beyond just tools, I’ve written comprehensive guides:

• Best Way to Clean Windows – Complete technique guide covering every method
• How to Clean Window Tracks – Getting those filthy tracks properly clean

Understanding what professional window cleaners use to clean windows comes down to quality basic tools used with proper technique. The essential kit – a good squeegee, scrubber, extension pole, microfiber cloths, and simple washing-up liquid solution – costs £50-80 and lasts for years. The GBPro Professional Window Squeegee combined with the 4.5M Window Squeegee Cleaner Tool Kit gives you everything needed for professional-quality results on any residential property.

The secret isn’t expensive products or complicated equipment – it’s investing in quality tools that make the job easier. A professional-grade squeegee with a sharp rubber blade, proper scrubbing before you squeegee, the right amount of washing-up liquid in your water (2-3 drops per litre), and the discipline to wipe your blade after every stroke. That’s genuinely all there is to it.

I’ve cleaned thousands of windows over 18 years, and I use the exact same simple toolkit for every job. The tools I’ve recommended above from Amazon UK are either what I use professionally or very close equivalents. Buy quality basics, practice the technique for an hour or two, and you’ll achieve results identical to what you’d pay a professional £40-60 to do. The initial investment pays for itself after just 2-3 cleans, and you’ll have the tools for life.

Start with a basic kit – Amazon Basics Extendable Window Squeegee, washing-up liquid, cloths, and a bucket – for about £25. If you find you enjoy doing it and want to handle upstairs windows, upgrade to the Window Cleaning Kit with Extension Poles for £35-45. Within an hour of practice, you’ll wonder why you ever paid someone else to do something this straightforward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools do professional window cleaners use?

Professional window cleaners use a squeegee (T-shaped tool with rubber blade), scrubber/applicator (for applying solution), microfiber cloths (for drying edges), telescopic extension poles (for high windows), and a bucket with washing-up liquid and water solution. The squeegee is the most important tool – it removes all water in one stroke, leaving streak-free glass.

What liquid do window cleaners use?

Most professional window cleaners use plain water with 2-3 drops of washing-up liquid (dish soap) per litre. This simple solution cuts grease and dirt while rinsing clean without residue. Some professionals use window cleaning concentrate, but basic washing-up liquid works identically for a fraction of the cost. Avoid using too much soap as this causes streaking.

What is the best tool for cleaning windows?

A quality squeegee with a sharp rubber blade is the single best tool for cleaning windows. The GBPro Professional Window Squeegee (£20-25) offers professional results for home use. Combined with a scrubber for applying solution and microfiber cloths for drying edges, a squeegee gives streak-free results that cloths, paper towels, or spray cleaners cannot match.

How do professionals clean windows without streaks?

Professionals avoid streaks by: using minimal washing-up liquid (2-3 drops per litre), employing proper squeegee technique at 45-degree angle with overlapping strokes, wiping the squeegee blade after every single stroke, working quickly before solution dries, and using fresh sharp rubber blades. The blade-wiping habit is most critical – dirty blades cause 90% of streaking issues.

What do window cleaners use to reach high windows?

Window cleaners use telescopic extension poles (4-6 metres for residential, longer for commercial) with attached squeegees and scrubbers. The 4.5M Window Squeegee Cleaner Tool Kit allows cleaning second-storey windows safely from the ground. Professional window cleaners rarely use ladders for routine residential work – extension poles are faster, safer, and more efficient.

Do professional window cleaners use Windex?

No, professional window cleaners rarely use Windex or spray glass cleaners. These products are too expensive for professional use (£4-5 per bottle cleans maybe 20 windows) when washing-up liquid and water (50p cleans 500+ windows) works identically. Spray cleaners are marketed to homeowners; professionals know simple solutions work better and cost dramatically less.

What do window cleaners put in their water?

Window cleaners add 2-3 drops of washing-up liquid (Fairy, Ecover, any dish soap) per litre of water. Some add window cleaning concentrate at recommended dilution. In freezing weather, professionals add a small amount of methylated spirits (1 teaspoon per 5 litres) to prevent solution freezing on glass. That’s it – no special chemicals or secret formulas.

How much does professional window cleaning equipment cost?

A basic residential window cleaning kit costs £25-30 (squeegee, bucket, cloths, solution). A complete professional-quality residential kit including extension poles costs £50-80. Professional-grade equipment for commercial work costs £100-200+. The investment pays for itself after 2-3 professional cleaning services, which typically cost £30-50 per visit.

Can I use a window vac instead of a squeegee?

Window vacs (like Kärcher Window Vac) work but are slower than manual squeegees once you learn proper technique. They’re good for complete beginners and prevent drips, but professionals rarely use them because traditional squeegees are faster, more reliable, never need charging, and give better results on large areas. Window vacs cost £50-100 versus £15-30 for quality squeegees.

What is the best squeegee for window cleaning?

The GBPro Professional Window Squeegee in 35cm size is excellent for residential use, offering stainless steel construction and replaceable rubber blades for £20-25. For versatility, get multiple sizes: 15-25cm for small windows, 35cm for standard windows, 45cm+ for patio doors. Quality squeegees last years with regular blade replacement (every 3-6 months, £3-8 per blade).