How to Prepare Your Home for Professional Window Cleaners
Getting your windows professionally cleaned is one of the best investments you can make in your home's appearance and maintenance. However, proper preparation beforehand ensures the cleaners can work efficiently, safely, and deliver the best possible results. Here's your comprehensive guide to getting ready before the professionals arrive.
Clear the Area Around Your Windows
Inside Preparation
Start by removing obstacles that might hinder access to your windows. Move furniture, decorative items, and plants away from window sills and surrounding areas. Professional cleaners need adequate space to set up their equipment and move freely without risk of damaging your belongings.
Pay particular attention to fragile items like vases, photo frames, or electronics near windows. Even experienced professionals can accidentally knock something over when manoeuvring cleaning tools, so it's better to relocate these items temporarily.
For curtains and blinds, either remove them entirely or secure them well away from the window area. Venetian blinds can be raised and tied, while curtains should be gathered and held back with clips or ties. This prevents cleaning solutions from splashing onto fabrics and gives cleaners unobstructed access.
Outside Access Points
Walk around your property's exterior to identify and clear any obstacles blocking window access. Move garden furniture, potted plants, garden hoses, and outdoor decorations away from windows. If you have climbing plants or shrubs growing near windows, trim back any branches that might interfere with the cleaning process.
Check that gates are unlocked and paths are clear. Professional window cleaners often carry bulky equipment, including ladders and water-fed pole systems, so they'll need easy access to all areas of your home.
Secure Your Pets and Inform About Security Systems
Pet Safety Considerations
Professional window cleaners will be moving in and out of your property, potentially leaving doors open while they work. Secure dogs in a separate room or area where they won't interfere with the cleaning process or escape through open doors.
Cats should also be contained, as they might be startled by unfamiliar people and equipment. Consider placing pets in a quiet room with their favourite toys, food, and water to keep them comfortable during the cleaning service.
Security Systems and Access
If you have security systems, alarm systems, or sensor lights around windows, inform the cleaning team beforehand. Provide them with any necessary codes or explain how to avoid triggering alarms. Motion sensors near windows might activate repeatedly during cleaning, so consider temporarily adjusting their sensitivity or switching them off.
For homes with security cameras, let the cleaners know their locations to avoid accidental damage and to put them at ease knowing they're being recorded.
Address Special Considerations
Weather and Timing
While professional window cleaners work in various weather conditions, extreme weather can affect results. If severe weather is forecast, discuss with your cleaning service whether rescheduling might be beneficial. Light rain actually helps with the cleaning process, but strong winds or storms can compromise safety and results.
Schedule your cleaning service for a time when you'll be available to answer questions and provide access to different areas of your home. If you must be away, ensure someone reliable is present or provide clear instructions for independent access.
Window-Specific Preparations
Inspect your windows beforehand for any damage, loose frames, or broken locks. Inform the cleaners about these issues so they can take extra care around problem areas. If any windows are painted shut or haven't been opened in years, let the team know rather than having them discover this during cleaning.
For windows with security screens or fly screens, decide whether you want these cleaned as well and ensure they can be easily removed if necessary. Some screens clip out simply, while others require specific techniques or tools.
Prepare Your Home's Interior
Protecting Your Furnishings
Even with careful preparation, some water splashing is inevitable during window cleaning. Remove or cover valuable items near windows with drop cloths or plastic sheeting. This includes electronics, books, important documents, and upholstered furniture that might be damaged by moisture.
Consider the flooring beneath windows as well. While professional cleaners typically bring their own protective materials, you might want to lay down towels or waterproof mats on valuable carpets or wooden floors.
Creating Optimal Working Conditions
Ensure adequate lighting inside your home so cleaners can properly assess their work, especially for interior window cleaning. Open interior doors to create good airflow, which helps windows dry more quickly and reduces streaking.
If your home has multiple levels, clear stairways and hallways that cleaners might need to use when moving equipment between floors.
Communication and Final Preparations
Discuss Special Requirements
Before the cleaning team arrives, compile a list of any special requirements or concerns. This might include windows that are particularly difficult to access, specific cleaning products you prefer (or want to avoid), or areas where extra care is needed due to delicate surroundings.
If you have specific expectations about the cleaning process or timeline, discuss these in advance rather than during the service.
Prepare Payment and Documentation
Have your payment ready if you're paying on completion, and keep any service agreements or quotes easily accessible. This allows for a smooth conclusion to the service without delays.
Take "before" photos if you're particularly concerned about the condition of your windows or surrounding areas. This isn't usually necessary with reputable companies, but it provides peace of mind for valuable or delicate installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I prepare for window cleaning? A: Start your preparation the evening before or morning of the service. Most tasks can be completed in 30-60 minutes, depending on your home's size and complexity.
Q: Should I clean my windows myself before the professionals arrive? A: No, there's no need to pre-clean your windows. Professional cleaners expect to work with dirty windows and have the proper equipment and techniques to handle any level of grime.
Q: What happens if it rains on the day of my window cleaning service? A: Light rain doesn't typically affect professional window cleaning, and many cleaners work in light drizzle. However, heavy rain or storms may require rescheduling for safety and quality reasons.
Q: Do I need to be home during the entire cleaning service? A: While it's preferable to be available for questions and access needs, you don't need to supervise constantly. Many clients carry on with normal activities while cleaners work.
Q: How long does professional window cleaning typically take? A: This varies greatly depending on your home's size, number of windows, and their condition. A typical residential service ranges from 1-4 hours, with your cleaning service providing estimates based on your specific requirements.