Window Cleaning Equipment Guide: What Professionals Use

Professional window cleaners make their work look effortless, but behind those streak-free, crystal-clear results lies a carefully selected arsenal of specialised tools. Whether you're considering hiring a professional service or want to achieve professional-grade results at home, understanding the equipment professionals use can help you make informed decisions and appreciate the skill behind the craft.

Essential Window Cleaning Equipment for Professionals

Squeegees: The Professional's Best Friend

The squeegee is undoubtedly the most critical tool in any professional window cleaner's kit. Unlike household squeegees you might find at the hardware store, professional-grade squeegees are precision instruments designed for efficiency and superior results.

Professional window cleaners typically use squeegees with:

Channel handles made from brass or stainless steel for durability
Rubber blades specifically designed for different weather conditions (soft rubber for cold weather, firmer rubber for hot conditions)
Multiple sizes ranging from 10cm for small panes to 45cm for large commercial windows
Swivel heads that allow for better angle control and manoeuvrability

Top brands like Unger, Ettore, and Pulex dominate the professional market, with many cleaners swearing by their preferred blade composition and handle design.

Professional Cleaning Solutions

Professional window cleaners rarely rely on household cleaning products. Instead, they use concentrated cleaning solutions specifically formulated for glass cleaning:

Concentrated detergents that can be diluted to different strengths depending on the level of dirt and grime
Specialised solutions for removing specific contaminants like paint overspray, adhesive residue, or hard water stains
Eco-friendly options that are biodegradable and safe for surrounding vegetation

Many professionals create their own cleaning solutions, often mixing a few drops of dishwashing liquid with water, sometimes adding a small amount of vinegar for particularly stubborn grime.

Applicators and Scrubbers

Before the squeegee can work its magic, windows need to be thoroughly wetted and scrubbed. Professional applicators include:

Strip washers with absorbent sleeves that hold cleaning solution and scrub the glass surface
T-bars that allow for even application of cleaning solution across the entire window surface
Scrub pads for removing stubborn marks, bird droppings, or built-up grime
Detail brushes for cleaning window frames, sills, and corners

Professional Water Systems

Many professional window cleaning services have moved beyond traditional bucket-and-squeegee methods, particularly for multi-storey buildings:

Water-fed pole systems use purified water delivered through telescopic poles with brush heads. This system:

Eliminates the need for ladders on buildings up to 4-5 storeys
Uses deionised water that dries spot-free without squeegee work
Allows cleaning of windows, frames, and sills simultaneously
Significantly improves safety by keeping workers on the ground

Pure water systems remove minerals and impurities from tap water using reverse osmosis or deionisation, ensuring no residue is left behind when the water evaporates.

Specialised Tools for Different Situations

High-Access Equipment

Professional window cleaners working on commercial buildings or difficult-to-reach residential windows use:

Extension poles that can reach up to 18 metres
Professional-grade ladders with safety features and proper weight ratings
Cradle systems and abseiling equipment for high-rise buildings
Boom lifts and cherry pickers for large commercial projects

Detail and Finishing Tools

The difference between amateur and professional results often comes down to attention to detail:

Scrim cloths (traditional linen cloths) for polishing and detailing
Microfibre cloths for final touches and frame cleaning
Razor scrapers for removing paint spots, stickers, or other stubborn debris
Detail brushes for cleaning window tracks and corners
Professional chamois for drying and polishing

Safety Equipment: Non-Negotiable for Professionals

Professional window cleaners prioritise safety equipment:

Safety harnesses and fall arrest systems for high-level work
Non-slip footwear designed for wet conditions
Safety helmets when working near construction or in commercial environments
High-visibility clothing for roadside or commercial work
First aid kits and emergency communication devices

Storage and Transportation Solutions

Professional window cleaners need efficient systems for transporting and organising their equipment:

Professional trolleys designed specifically for window cleaning equipment
Bucket holsters and tool belts for hands-free movement
Van racking systems that secure equipment during transport and provide easy access
Water tanks for pure water systems, often mounted in vehicles

Maintenance Tools for Professional Equipment

Keeping equipment in top condition requires:

Blade trimmers for maintaining sharp, effective squeegee blades
Channel cleaners to remove debris from squeegee channels
Replacement parts including blades, sleeves, and brushes
Equipment cleaning supplies to maintain hygiene and effectiveness

FAQ

What's the difference between professional and household window cleaning equipment?

Professional equipment is built for daily, heavy-duty use with superior materials like brass channels, precision-cut rubber blades, and ergonomic designs. Household tools are typically made from plastic components and lower-grade rubber, suitable for occasional use but not for the demands of professional work.

Why do professionals use pure water systems instead of traditional methods?

Pure water systems improve safety by eliminating ladder work, increase efficiency by cleaning windows and frames simultaneously, and provide superior results because pure water dries without leaving mineral spots or residue.

How often do professional window cleaners replace their squeegee blades?

Professional window cleaners typically replace squeegee blades when they notice nicks, tears, or reduced performance. For daily commercial work, this might be every 2-4 weeks, while residential cleaners might replace blades monthly or bi-monthly depending on usage.

What cleaning solution do most professional window cleaners use?

Many professionals prefer simple solutions: a few drops of high-quality dishwashing liquid mixed with water. Some add white vinegar for extra cleaning power. The key is using very little detergent to avoid residue while still providing adequate cleaning action.

Is professional window cleaning equipment worth the investment for homeowners?

For homeowners who clean their own windows regularly, investing in a quality squeegee, proper cleaning solution, and microfibre cloths can significantly improve results. However, specialised equipment like pure water systems or professional-grade poles are typically only cost-effective for professional use due to their high price and maintenance requirements.