Cleaning high windows can be a challenging task, but with the right equipment, it becomes much easier and safer. The best equipment for cleaning high windows will depend on whether you’re a professional window cleaner or a homeowner, but generally, you’ll need tools that offer extended reach, durability, and efficiency. Here are some of the top options for cleaning high windows in the UK:
1. WaterFed Pole Systems
WaterFed Pole Systems are the go-to solution for cleaning high windows, especially for professional use. They allow you to clean windows from the ground using pure water (deionized water) that leaves no streaks or spots.
- Key Features:
- Extended Reach: WaterFed poles can extend up to 20 meters (65 feet), making them ideal for cleaning windows on tall buildings or high-rise homes.
- Purified Water: These systems use deionized water to clean windows, which prevents streaks and water spots by eliminating minerals from the water.
- No Chemicals: WaterFed poles use only water, making them an eco-friendly choice.
- Carbon Fibre Poles: The poles are usually made from lightweight carbon fibre, making them easy to handle despite their long reach.
- Professional Results: These systems are widely used by professional window cleaners because they provide a deep clean without the need for ladders or scaffolding.
- Best For: Professional window cleaners or homeowners with multi-storey properties.
- Price Range: £300 – £1,500 (depending on pole length and system features).
Recommended Brands:
- Unger nLite WaterFed Pole System
- Gardiner Pole Systems
- Brodex WaterFed Poles
2. Telescopic Squeegees and Scrubbers
For homeowners or DIY enthusiasts, a telescopic squeegee and scrubber is an affordable option that provides extended reach without the need for a ladder.
- Key Features:
- Telescopic Handle: These poles extend from 3 to 10 meters (10 to 33 feet), allowing you to reach high windows from the ground.
- Dual Squeegee and Scrubber: Many systems come with both a squeegee and a scrubbing pad, letting you wash and dry the window in one go.
- Affordable: A more budget-friendly option for those who don’t want to invest in a full WaterFed pole system.
- Adjustable Heads: Some models have adjustable heads, making it easier to reach awkward angles.
- Best For: Homeowners who need to clean high windows occasionally.
- Price Range: £30 – £100
Recommended Products:
- Unger OptiLoc Telescopic Pole with ErgoTec Squeegee
- Leifheit Window Cleaning Set with Telescopic Pole
- Ettore Super System Squeegee with Telescopic Pole
3. SkyVac Mighty Atom with Telescopic Poles
The SkyVac Mighty Atom is primarily a gutter vacuum system, but it can also be used for high-level window cleaning when combined with the appropriate attachments.
- Key Features:
- High Reach: With carbon fibre telescopic poles that can extend up to 12 meters (40 feet), this system can clean windows on taller buildings.
- Versatile Attachments: You can attach squeegees, brushes, or scrubbing pads to the poles for window cleaning.
- Wet and Dry Cleaning: The SkyVac system is suitable for both wet and dry conditions, making it a good choice for cleaning windows in various weather conditions.
- Camera for Inspection: Some models come with a wireless camera attachment, allowing you to inspect windows or other high areas before cleaning.
- Best For: Professionals and homeowners looking for a multi-purpose system that can handle both gutter and window cleaning.
- Price Range: £500 – £900 (depending on model and accessories).
4. Kärcher Telescopic Window Cleaning Kit
If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use solution, the Kärcher Telescopic Kit offers an extendable pole that can be combined with the popular Kärcher WV5 Window Vac or other Kärcher models for high window cleaning.
- Key Features:
- Extendable Reach: The telescopic pole extends up to 4 meters (13 feet), which is suitable for cleaning second-storey windows from the ground.
- Compatible with Kärcher Window Vacs: This system allows you to attach a Kärcher window vac for quick, streak-free cleaning.
- Affordable and Portable: Compared to professional WaterFed poles, this is a more budget-friendly solution for homeowners.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to handle, even when extended to full height.
- Best For: Homeowners who already own a Kärcher window vac and want to extend its reach for higher windows.
- Price Range: £50 – £100 (for the telescopic kit).
5. Gutter Sucker Pro Telescopic Pole System
The Gutter Sucker Pro Telescopic Pole System is designed for high-reach gutter cleaning, but with the right attachments, it can also be used for high window cleaning.
- Key Features:
- Carbon Fibre Poles: Extends up to 12 meters (40 feet) with lightweight carbon fibre poles, providing an easy-to-handle system for cleaning high windows.
- Compatible with Multiple Attachments: You can attach window cleaning heads (such as squeegees or scrubbers) for efficient cleaning at height.
- Durable: The system is built to withstand heavy-duty use, making it ideal for professionals.
- Wet and Dry Capability: Allows you to clean windows in all weather conditions.
- Best For: Professional cleaners or homeowners who want a multi-functional system that can handle both gutter and window cleaning tasks.
- Price Range: £600 – £1,000 (depending on model and attachments).
6. Window Cleaning Robots (Hobot 298 or Ecovacs Winbot X)
For homeowners who want to avoid manual cleaning altogether, window cleaning robots like the Hobot 298 or Ecovacs Winbot X are becoming increasingly popular for high, hard-to-reach windows.
- Key Features:
- Automated Cleaning: These robots attach to the window with suction and move across the surface, cleaning it with minimal user input.
- Safety Features: Most models come with a safety tether to prevent the robot from falling off the window.
- Remote Control: The robots are operated via remote control or smartphone app, making it easy to start or stop the cleaning process.
- Streak-Free Finish: The cleaning pads and microfiber cloths are designed to leave windows streak-free.
- Best For: Homeowners who want a hands-off approach to window cleaning, particularly for large or high windows.
- Price Range: £200 – £500
7. Unger nLite Carbon Fibre Pole with HydroPower System
The Unger nLite Carbon Fibre Pole System combined with the HydroPower System is another top choice for professionals. It uses purified water to clean windows, ensuring a streak-free result.
- Key Features:
- Ultra-Light Carbon Fibre: The poles are incredibly lightweight, making it easy to clean windows at great heights without fatigue.
- Extendable Poles: Can extend up to 20 meters (65 feet), ideal for cleaning windows on tall buildings or high homes.
- HydroPower Technology: This system uses deionized water to clean windows, preventing streaks and eliminating the need for detergents.
- Modular System: You can add or remove pole sections depending on the height you need, offering flexibility for different jobs.
- Best For: Professionals who need a lightweight, high-performance solution for cleaning high windows.
- Price Range: £800 – £1,500
Conclusion
When it comes to cleaning high windows, choosing the right equipment can save time, effort, and improve safety. For professionals, the WaterFed Pole Systems from brands like Unger or Gardiner are the best option for efficient, streak-free cleaning at extreme heights. For homeowners, telescopic squeegees like the Unger OptiLoc or Kärcher Telescopic Kit offer an affordable and easy-to-use solution. For those seeking more innovative technology, window cleaning robots like the Hobot 298 provide a hands-free option for tackling high or hard-to-reach windows.
Choose based on your needs, whether you’re after the highest reach, eco-friendly cleaning, or a hands-off robotic solution, and you’ll be able to maintain sparkling clean windows no matter the height!