How To Clean Outside Windows You Can't Reach

Keeping the windows of your business clean is more important than you might think. 

Not only do clean, sparkling windows help your company present a professional image, but they also improve the quality of natural light in your business space - creating a more pleasant environment for both employees and customers.

Regular window cleaning can also extend the life of your windows. The buildup of dirt and grime buildup can damage the seals over time, so keeping them clean can help avoid costly repairs or replacements.

However, cleaning outside windows isn't always straightforward. 

Achieving a streak-free finish can be tricky, and reaching those high or awkwardly placed windows can be even more challenging. 

In this article, we'll share some practical tips for cleaning the windows you can reach and explore options for tackling those you can't.

Able to reach your outside windows? Some tips for achieving a streak free finish

Cleaning windows outside to achieve a perfect streak-free finish can be a challenging task.

It can be frustrating to spend your time and energy cleaning your windows, only to notice streaks, smudges, or missed spots when they dry.

Achieving a professional, sparkling, clean look requires the right combination of cleaning products, equipment, and techniques. 

Here are some top tips to help you get the best results: 

• Clean outside windows at the right time

Did you know it’s actually best to clean your windows on a cloudy day? Direct sunlight can cause your windows to dry too quickly, which can leave you with streaks.

• Use the right products

If you have access to them, for the best results, we always recommend using eco-friendly cleaning products specifically designed for cleaning windows. If this isn’t possible, mixing one part white vinegar with two parts water can be an effective, eco-friendly cleaning solution.

• Invest in the right equipment

If you’re going to clean your outside windows yourself, it’s important to invest in the right equipment. The good news is, it doesn’t need to cost the earth - all you’re likely to need is a good quality squeegee, a toothbrush, a vacuum with a brush attachment, microfibre cloths, and a bucket.

• The right technique is key

The first thing to do is to remove any cobwebs and loose dirt with the brush attachment on your vacuum. Once you’ve done this, use a cloth to wipe the entire window surface with your cleaning solution. If there are any stubborn bits of dirt, this is where your toothbrush is useful. Once you’ve wiped your window and removed any dirt, it’s time to use your squeegee - going from top to bottom. 

• Drying your windows - the finishing touch

The final step is one that is often missed! Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry your windows for a streak free finish, and remove any remaining water or solution around the edges of the window.

The bigger challenge: how to clean outside windows you can't reach

Cleaning outside windows that are difficult to reach, such as those on upper floors or in awkward locations, can be far more challenging. 

The height and location of these windows not only make it hard to achieve the same level of cleanliness as easily accessible windows, but can also pose safety risks if you don’t have the right equipment or training.

Let’s take a look at some of the challenges in more detail:

Safety concerns

One of the main issues when cleaning outside windows that are hard to reach is safety.

Attempting to clean high windows without the proper equipment, training, and safety precautions can put people at risk of serious injury. 

Before trying to clean these hard-to-reach windows, it’s important to conduct a risk assessment to identify any potential hazards and determine the safest and most effective approach.

Your risk assessment should take into account things like the height of the windows, the weather conditions, and whether your team has access to all the appropriate safety equipment. 

Once you’ve evaluated all the risks involved, you’ll be able to decide whether to manage the cleaning of your hard-to-reach windows internally, or hire professional commercial window cleaning specialists who are trained to handle the task.

Investing in the right equipment and training

The standard cleaning equipment we discussed earlier, like your squeegee, toothbrush and microfibre cloths, aren’t going to be enough to effectively clean those hard-to-reach windows. 

Equipment like extension poles and telescopic brushes are often useful for helping to clean windows that are on the first or second floor, reducing the need for ladders and the risk of falls. 

However, for windows that are higher up, you may need to invest in equipment such as ladders, suspended platforms, or rope access systems, and the relevant PPE such as harnesses, helmets, and non-slip shoes to keep your staff safe.

Investing in the right window cleaning equipment and making sure it’s properly maintained is crucial if you’re going to clean your hard-to-reach windows safely. 

But equally important is ensuring your staff have the right training. They need to know how to handle specialist equipment safely and effectively to get the best results without accidents. 

Sometimes it’s easier to outsource

There can be a lot of risk and cost involved in cleaning office windows that are hard to reach, which is why many businesses choose to outsource this responsibility to a commercial cleaning company. 

Outsourcing the cleaning of your hard to reach windows can take a weight off your mind - ensuring high-quality results, and eliminating any safety concerns for your team.