This article dives into the time-honoured tradition of cleaning windows with a squeegee — the method professionals have trusted for generations. You’ll learn:

• Why the squeegee remains an essential tool in today’s world of high-tech cleaning.

• The tools and techniques behind achieving that streak-free finish every time.

• A comparison of traditional vs. modern cleaning approaches (and why both have their place).

• Detailed guidance on gear like squeegee handles, rubber blades, microfiber cloths, and extension poles.

• Tips from industry insiders on avoiding common mistakes, and what sets apart a professional finish from an amateur effort.

• Where to find local UK window cleaning experts who still champion the classic method.

This is your practical, straight-talking introduction to a window cleaning technique that still earns its keep — from domestic jobs to commercial contracts.

The Enduring Appeal of Traditional Window Cleaning

There’s a reason the phrase “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” continues to resonate in the world of window cleaning. Long before water-fed poles and purified water systems became industry standard, window cleaners relied on simple, effective tools — a mop and squeegee, a bucket of soapy water, and a bit of elbow grease.

It’s this method — time-tested and endlessly adaptable — that still forms the foundation of professional window cleaning today. And for those who favour control, precision, and a close-up view of their results, it remains the gold standard for interior windows, mirrors, conservatory roofs, and delicate glass work.

“The beauty of traditional window cleaning is that the feedback is instant. You see every streak, every drop — and more importantly, how to fix it.”

While modern systems offer speed and reach, the classic soap and squeegee approach continues to dominate when quality control is paramount.

What Makes the Classic Method So Effective?

Core Tools That Make It Work

At the heart of this technique are tools refined over decades:

• Squeegee handle – Often with an ergonomic or anti-slip grip to reduce hand fatigue during long sessions.

• Rubber blade – Replaceable, sharp-edged, and responsive to blade tension for maximum surface contact.

• Microfiber cloth – Ideal for drying edges or absorbing residual moisture.

• Window cleaning bucket – Typically wide enough to accommodate washer sleeves and mop handles.

• Soapy water – Usually made from warm water and a splash of dish soap, still the go-to solution for pro cleaners.

In many cases, pros add a glass scraper to the mix for caked-on dirt or vinegar solution for cloudy film. And for larger or multi-storey jobs, a telescopic pole helps reach higher panes while still using manual techniques.

You can explore more on the methods we use at Pivotal Window Cleaning — where tradition meets reliability, all across the UK.

Mastering the Technique: Where Skill Meets Simplicity

Unlike automated or water-fed systems, traditional cleaning is equal parts technique and intuition. The goal is a streak-free finish, but getting there involves more than a few strategic moves:

Key Steps of the Process:

1. Scrub the window with a washer or microfiber sleeve dipped in soapy water.

2. Scrape off any stubborn marks using a glass scraper held at an acute angle.

3. Squeegee from top to bottom or side to side using smooth, overlapping strokes.

4. Wipe dry the edges with a microfiber cloth or absorbent towel.

5. Repeat if needed on tough stains or cloudy sections using a vinegar mix.

Among professional cleaners, one technique reigns supreme — the fanning method. This requires angling the squeegee and pivoting across the glass in curved strokes that lift water without leaving lines. It’s a subtle art, but once mastered, it's what separates a good clean from a showroom gleam.

If you’re a cleaning business owner and want to offer this level of quality to clients, check out our lead generation solutions for window cleaning businesses — designed to keep your schedule full.

Choosing the Right Tools for the Job

Brands That Still Deliver

Modern brands have taken traditional tools and refined them for efficiency and comfort. Some of the best-loved names include:

• Unger – Known for their Ninja range with swivel handles and tapered channels.

• Ettore – Makers of the Contour Pro+, a squeegee with superb angle adaptability.

• Moerman – Their Liquidator 3.0 channels reduce detailing time by hugging window edges tightly.

• FaceLift FireBlade – UK-favourite with its bold red rubber and smooth glide.

You might also explore dual-purpose tools like the VisaVersa, which combine washer and squeegee heads for speed — perfect for compact jobs or internal glass cleaning.

A good clipless channel setup, paired with a quick-release mechanism, can save precious minutes on site — particularly if you’re working in unpredictable weather.

When (and Why) to Use the Classic Method

While the water-fed pole is often preferred for high exterior windows, the classic method shines in particular situations:

• Interior window cleaning – For homes, offices, and glass partitions.

• Detailing work – Where window edges or stubborn marks need close attention.

• Professional cleaning services – That want to offer both modern and traditional solutions.

In short: for control, quality, and customer confidence, the old-school approach still holds strong.

Want to see how traditional techniques stack up in your area? Check out our full list of service locations across the UK.

Avoiding the Pitfalls: Common Mistakes with Traditional Window Cleaning

While the concept of using a mop and squeegee seems simple on the surface, there are many subtle errors that can undo your efforts. Even experienced DIYers fall into traps that result in streaks, smears, or — worse — scratched glass.

Mistake 1: Using Too Much Pressure

Applying heavy pressure on the squeegee doesn’t make the glass cleaner — in fact, it can deform the rubber blade, causing uneven contact with the surface and leaving lines or missed patches. Instead, let the blade glide with consistent pressure across the window.

Mistake 2: Skipping Corners

Corners and edges are where water stains and residue collect. Many overlook them in the rush to finish. Use a microfiber cloth or absorbent towel to detail these areas immediately after your final pass.

Mistake 3: Over-Wiping or Overlapping Sloppily

Going over the same area too many times with a damp blade can introduce streaks. Each overlapping stroke should be deliberate, following a smooth path that avoids water pooling.

Mistake 4: Using Old or Damaged Blades

Squeegee rubber wears down, especially at the edges. Over time, this leads to streaking and chatter. Make blade replacement a regular part of your cleaning routine — especially if you’re running a commercial window cleaning service.

“Even the best fanning technique is only as good as the blade in your hand.”

For businesses juggling multiple jobs and customers, we always recommend scheduling proactive maintenance. If you're serious about growth, learn how to scale your operations using our quote request system for tailored lead flow.

How to Choose the Right Squeegee for the Job

Whether you're a homeowner looking to DIY your windows or a cleaning business aiming for consistency, the right tools matter. Here's what to consider when choosing your squeegee setup.

1. Handle Design

Go for an ergonomic handle that reduces fatigue. Look for features like:

• Anti-slip grip

• Swivel head (useful for tricky angles)

• Quick release mechanisms for blade swaps

Some brands like the Unger Ninja and Ettore Contour Pro+ offer pivoting squeegee heads that make them easier to use on awkward panes.

2. Blade Length and Flexibility

• Short blades (10–12") are ideal for detailed work or small window panes.

• Long blades (14–18") are more efficient for large glass areas but require precise technique.

• Use a clipless channel or one with tapered ends to maximise edge contact without needing too much pressure.

3. Rubber Quality

RazrBlade and Moerman Dura-Flex are trusted in the UK for durability and year-round performance. If you're cleaning in cold weather, opt for a softer rubber to maintain contact.

And if you want to go beyond equipment and truly optimise your business strategy, consider reading more about how we help cleaners dominate their area with our window cleaning lead generation system.

Modern Tools vs. Classic Technique: A Balanced Approach

While purified water systems and water-fed poles have revolutionised external cleaning, the traditional method is still very much alive — especially for interiors and quality control.

When to Use Modern:

• High-rise buildings

• Commercial exteriors

• Solar panels or high conservatories

When to Go Traditional:

• Interior glass surfaces

• Glass balustrades or partitions

• Mirrors and shower glass

• Tough stains requiring hands-on treatment

Most professionals now use a hybrid model, bringing in the water-fed pole for reach and the classic squeegee for precision. If you’re building a cleaning team, this blended approach is also easier to train and scale.

At Pivotal, we keep things simple — we deploy the right technique for the right job. Whether you're in the heart of London or a quiet suburb, check out where we work by visiting our UK service locations.

Expert Tips: Traditional Cleaning Like a Pro

If you’re still keen to master the art of manual window cleaning, here are a few final pro tips:

Essential Accessories

• Bucket-on-a-belt – Speeds up the process and improves safety on ladders.

• Microfibre sleeve – A washable, reusable option to apply soapy water evenly.

• Extension pole – Essential for interior windows just out of reach.

Best Practices

• Always work from top to bottom.

• Avoid direct sunlight — it dries the soapy water too fast and causes streaks.

• Rinse equipment regularly to prevent dirty water from being re-applied.

• Store your squeegees flat to preserve blade tension and avoid warping.

Marketing the Method: Selling Tradition in a Modern Market

In today’s world of high-tech tools and “set-it-and-forget-it” solutions, promoting a traditional window cleaning method might seem like going against the grain. But in truth, the demand for detail-driven, hand-finished cleaning has never been higher.

So how do you position your squeegee-based service in a digital-first market?

1. Highlight What Modern Tools Can’t Replace

Automated or water-fed systems can’t:

• Remove tough stains up close

• Eliminate streaks around tapered window frames

• Perform precision detailing on internal glass cleaning jobs

• Offer visual assurance — what you see is what you get

Emphasise these points in your local advertising, especially when promoting residential window cleaning or heritage property care. Include visuals that show the difference — sparkling glass after a meticulous manual cleaning session, versus machine-finished results.

“Classic methods are about results you can feel — in the smooth pull of the squeegee, the polished edge of a frame, and the satisfaction of a job properly done.”

DIY vs Professional: Knowing When to Call in the Experts

Many homeowners try their hand at window cleaning with a supermarket squeegee, some dish soap, and high hopes. And while that can work for light maintenance, there are some unmistakable signs it's time to hand the job over to the pros.

DIY Window Cleaning Is Fine If:

• You’re cleaning ground-floor windows or interior glass

• You have a high-quality lightweight squeegee and proper gear

• You understand the fanning technique and how to use a squeegee

But Hire a Professional When:

• You're facing multi-storey windows or hard-to-reach areas

• You see cloudy film, caked-on dirt, or recurring water stains

• You want a streak-free finish on large glass expanses

• You’re dealing with historic or delicate window panes

Professional cleaners come equipped with everything from telescopic poles to dual-purpose tools, and know how to select the right squeegee combo or blade replacement on the fly — all while working quickly and safely.

Need a hand? Visit Pivotal Window Cleaning and we’ll show you how tradition still delivers results that modern systems can’t match.

Why Squeegee Skills Still Matter in a Digital Age

It’s easy to think of the classic squeegee as outdated — but anyone in the know understands it’s quite the opposite. As technology saturates the cleaning industry, clients are starting to appreciate craftsmanship all over again.

Window cleaners who master the classic method stand out not only in results, but in customer experience. The trust built through attention to detail, courtesy on-site, and a visibly superior finish is something no tech can automate.

This matters especially in competitive markets. If you’re a window cleaner wanting to attract new clients who value quality over quantity, get in touch with us for custom lead generation strategies tailored to the traditionalist — right here.

Final Thoughts: A Tool That Never Goes Out of Style

The world of window cleaning has changed. But the core of what makes a pane of glass shine — clarity, skill, and care — hasn’t.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro refining your squeegee technique, a homeowner looking for a better clean, or a business owner growing a service rooted in quality-first values, the classic method continues to offer something rare in today’s fast-paced industry: control, confidence, and consistently clear results.

Want to Experience the Difference?

You don’t need to guess whether a traditional approach is right for your property — you just need the right people. At Pivotal, we work with customers across the UK to deliver detail-driven results on windows, conservatories, glass roofs, and more.

Request your quote today → Get a fast, no-pressure quote

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is a squeegee really better than using paper towels or cloths?

Yes — a squeegee provides a cleaner, more uniform result. Paper towels and cloths tend to leave lint behind and often cause streaking due to uneven pressure. A squeegee removes dirty water in one smooth motion, offering a professional-grade finish with minimal effort.

2. How often should I clean my windows using the traditional method?

For homes, every 8–12 weeks is a good general rule. In cities or coastal areas with more pollution or salt in the air, more frequent cleaning (every 4–6 weeks) may be needed. Commercial properties often benefit from monthly cleaning to maintain appearances.

3. Can I use a squeegee on tinted or film-coated windows?

Yes, but with caution. Always ensure the blade is clean and free from grit to avoid scratching the film. Use gentle pressure and avoid scrapers or abrasive pads, which can damage tint or protective coatings.

4. What is the best temperature to clean windows with a squeegee?

The ideal temperature is between 10°C and 20°C (50°F – 68°F). Cold temperatures can cause the water to freeze too quickly, while hot weather dries soapy water too fast, leading to streaks. Early mornings or overcast days are best.

5. Why does my squeegee leave water trails or streaks?

There are several reasons:

• Worn-out rubber blade

• Too much pressure or uneven stroke angle

• Dirty water or contaminated blade

• Incorrect technique (not using overlapping strokes)

Ensure your blade is sharp, clean, and you’re wiping in smooth, controlled passes.

6. Can I clean windows with just water and a squeegee?

Technically yes, but you won’t achieve the best results. Using soapy water (e.g., a few drops of dish soap in warm water) helps break down oils, dirt, and grime, making the squeegee much more effective.

7. Do I need to dry the squeegee between each stroke?

Yes — wiping the squeegee blade with a dry microfiber cloth between strokes prevents drips and streaks. It also reduces the chance of spreading dirty water across the glass surface.

8. Is the traditional method safe for cleaning old or fragile windows?

Yes, and it’s often preferred. The manual control of a squeegee is ideal for older panes and historic buildings. Avoid aggressive scrubbing or scrapers unless absolutely necessary, and always test on a small section first.

9. How long does it take to clean windows using a squeegee?

For an average three-bedroom house with easily accessible windows, expect to spend 1–2 hours using the classic method. Professionals can often complete the job faster with the right setup and experience.

10. Can children or teenagers help with window cleaning using a squeegee?

They can, with supervision. Using lightweight tools, practicing safe ladder use (if needed), and sticking to ground-level panes makes it a safe and educational chore. Start them with interior windows to teach basic technique.