There’s something incredibly satisfying about looking through sparkling, streak-free windows. Clean windows brighten up your home, let in more natural light, and enhance your view. But what’s the best way to achieve that perfect shine?
Traditional window cleaning has been around for decades and remains a favourite among professionals and homeowners alike. It’s simple, effective, and delivers impressive results without the need for fancy gadgets. In this guide, our expert window cleaners will walk you through everything you need to know about traditional window cleaning—why it works, how to do it properly, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is Traditional Window Cleaning?
Traditional window cleaning is exactly what it sounds like—the classic method of cleaning windows using a squeegee, a bucket of water, and a cleaning solution. Unlike modern water-fed pole systems that use purified water and telescopic brushes, this technique relies on manual scrubbing and precise squeegee movements to remove dirt and leave windows spotless.
This method remains a favourite for cleaning services, especially for shopfronts, smaller buildings, and homes, where precision and attention to detail matter. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve streak-free windows without the need for expensive, high-tech equipment. Whether you’re tackling your own windows or hiring professional cleaning services, the traditional approach guarantees a crystal-clear finish every time.
Traditional window cleaning equipments: The ultimate window cleaning kit
1. Squeegee – Your Best Friend for clean windows : A good squeegee is the most important tool for traditional window cleaning. Choose one with a sharp rubber blade to ensure smooth, streak-free results.
2. Bucket with Warm Water – The Foundation of Any Clean window : A simple bucket filled with warm water helps loosen dirt, dust, and grime, making it easier to wipe away.
3. Cleaning Solution : You don’t need expensive window cleaning products—sometimes, the best solutions are homemade!
4. Sponge or Applicator – Ensuring Even Coverage: A sponge or window-cleaning applicator helps distribute the cleaning solution evenly across the glass.
5. Microfibre Cloths – The Secret to a Flawless Finish: Microfibre cloths are perfect for wiping down window edges, catching drips, and giving the glass a final polish. Unlike paper towels or regular cloths, they don’t leave lint or streaks.
What is the traditional method of cleaning windows? : Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
Start by filling a bucket with warm water—this helps dissolve dirt and grime more effectively. Add a few drops of mild detergent for a gentle but effective clean, or go for a natural mix of white vinegar and water (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) for an eco-friendly alternative.
Tip: For best results, avoid using too much soap, as it can leave behind a residue that causes streaks. Stir the solution gently to create a mild soapy mix.
Step 2: Wet the Window
Dip your sponge or applicator into the cleaning solution and apply it generously to the window. Make sure the entire surface is covered, paying extra attention to areas with stubborn dirt, fingerprints, or smudges.
Tip: If your window has dried-on debris like bird droppings or sticky residue, let the solution sit for a minute before scrubbing.
Step 3: Use the Squeegee for a Streak-Free Finish
The squeegee is the key to achieving spotless, streak-free windows. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start at the top corner of the window.
- Pull the squeegee down in a straight, controlled motion.
- After each stroke, wipe the squeegee blade with a dry cloth to prevent streaks.
- Slightly overlap each stroke to avoid leaving water lines.
Step 4: Wipe the Edges for a Clean Finish
After squeegeeing, you may notice a few droplets of water along the edges of the window. Use a microfibre cloth to gently wipe around the frame and edges, making sure no water drips onto your freshly cleaned glass.
Step 5: Polish for Extra Shine
For a truly professional touch, take a dry microfibre cloth or newspaper and lightly buff the glass. This step removes any tiny smudges and gives your windows an extra sparkle.
Traditional vs Pure Water Window Cleaning: Not Just About the Method
Traditional Window Cleaning: The Classic Hands-On Method
Traditional window cleaning relies on a squeegee, a bucket of soapy water, and a cloth or sponge to remove dirt and grime. This technique has been used for decades and remains a favourite for its precision and streak-free results.
One of the biggest advantages of traditional cleaning is the control it offers.With this method, we get the best results particularly for small windows, shopfronts, and low-rise buildings, where precision matters. Additionally, it’s a cost-effective option, as it requires minimal equipment and is easy to do yourself with the right technique.
Pure Water Window Cleaning: The Modern High-Tech Solution for Cleaner Windows
Pure water window cleaning is a more modern method that uses a telescopic water-fed pole to spray purified water onto the glass. The key difference here is that the water is completely free from minerals and impurities, which means it dries naturally without leaving streaks or residue. This makes it a popular choice for cleaning high windows, commercial properties, and large-scale cleaning jobs.
Can you use traditional window cleaning techniques for commercial cleaning? Which is better?
Traditional window cleaning works exceptionally well for ground-floor commercial spaces and retail storefronts where detailed attention makes a difference. Your customers appreciate the meticulous finish that hands-on cleaning delivers, particularly for display windows requiring perfect clarity.
However, for multi-story buildings or large commercial complexes, pure water systems prove more practical and time-efficient. Safety considerations make traditional methods less suitable for elevated windows, as working at heights demands specialized equipment and training.
The best approach typically combines both techniques: traditional cleaning for accessible ground-level windows and pure water systems for upper floors. This balanced strategy ensures optimal results while maintaining cost-effectiveness for your wide range of cleaning needs.
Hire a traditional window cleaning service
Traditional window cleaning is a simple, effective way to keep your home looking fresh and bright. With the right tools and a little practice, you can achieve streak-free, gleaming windows every time. But if you’d rather skip the hard work, why not let a professional window cleaning team take care of it? At Wecasa we offer expert window cleaning services, leaving your windows spotless without the hassle. Need a hand? Book a professional window cleaner with Wecasa today and enjoy sparkling windows without lifting a finger!
