Your windows are streaky, covered in pollen, or you can barely see through them. You've tried cleaning them yourself, but they never look quite right. You need professional window cleaning, but where do you find reliable services near you? And what should you expect to pay?
Professional window cleaning does more than improve your view—it increases natural light, enhances curb appeal, prevents glass damage from buildup, and makes your home look well-maintained. But with varying pricing methods and service levels, finding the right window cleaner can be confusing.
This comprehensive guide shows you everything you need to know about window cleaning services. You'll learn what different services cost, how to choose a reliable window cleaner, what's included (and what costs extra), and where to find quality local professionals who won't overcharge you.
🪟 Types of Window Cleaning Services & Costs
🏠 Residential Window Cleaning
$150-300
Standard home window cleaning, interior and exterior.
- Per window: $2-7 per pane
- Single-story home: $100-250
- Two-story home: $200-400
- Three-story home: $300-600+
- Includes: Glass cleaning, frame wiping
🏢 Commercial Window Cleaning
$300-1,000+
Business and office building window cleaning services.
- Small office: $150-400
- Retail storefront: $100-300
- Large building: $500-2,000+
- High-rise: Specialized pricing
- Frequency: Monthly to quarterly
🧼 Interior Window Cleaning
$75-200
Inside glass cleaning only, no exterior work.
- Per window: $1-4 per pane
- Average home: $75-200
- Includes: Glass, sills, frames
- Best for: Between full cleanings
- Time: 1-3 hours
🌤️ Exterior Window Cleaning
$100-250
Outside glass cleaning, removes weather buildup.
- Per window: $2-5 per pane
- Average home: $100-250
- Single-story: $75-150
- Two-story: $150-300
- Includes: Glass, frames, cobwebs
🔲 Screen Cleaning
$1-3/screen
Remove, clean, and reinstall window screens.
- Per screen: $1-3
- Full house (20 screens): $20-60
- Includes: Removal, washing, reinstall
- Usually: Add-on service
- Recommended: Annually
🚿 Track & Sill Cleaning
$2-5/window
Deep clean window tracks, sills, and frames.
- Per window: $2-5
- Full house: $40-100
- Includes: Vacuuming, scrubbing, wiping
- Removes: Dirt, debris, mold
- Usually: Add-on service
💧 Hard Water Stain Removal
$50-150
Remove mineral deposits and hard water stains.
- Per window: $10-30
- Multiple windows: $50-150
- Method: Specialized chemicals/tools
- Time: Labor-intensive
- Note: Some stains permanent
🏗️ Post-Construction Cleaning
$200-500
Remove construction debris, paint, stickers.
- Average home: $200-500
- Per window: $5-15
- Removes: Paint, stickers, adhesive
- Includes: Scraping, chemicals
- Time: 3-6 hours
💰 Understanding Window Cleaning Costs
Average Pricing by Home Size
| Home Type | Number of Windows | Interior & Exterior | Exterior Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Home/Apartment | 10-15 windows | $100-200 | $75-150 |
| Medium Home (Single-Story) | 15-25 windows | $150-300 | $100-200 |
| Large Home (Two-Story) | 25-35 windows | $250-450 | $175-325 |
| Very Large Home (Three-Story) | 35+ windows | $400-700 | $300-500 |
Factors That Affect Window Cleaning Cost
- Number of windows: More windows = higher cost
- Window size: Large windows cost more per pane
- Accessibility: High/hard-to-reach windows cost 50-100% more
- Interior vs. exterior: Both sides costs more than one
- Window condition: Heavy buildup takes longer
- Screen cleaning: Add $1-3 per screen
- Track cleaning: Add $2-5 per window
- Hard water stains: Requires special treatment ($50-150)
- Location: Urban areas cost 20-40% more
- Frequency: Regular customers often get discounts
💡 What's Typically Included vs. Extra
Usually Included:
- Cleaning interior and exterior glass
- Wiping down frames and sills
- Removing cobwebs around windows
- Streak-free drying
- Basic spot treatment
Usually Extra Cost:
- Screen removal and cleaning
- Deep track and sill cleaning
- Hard water stain removal
- Storm window cleaning
- High/difficult-to-reach windows
- Post-construction cleaning
📅 How Often Should You Clean Windows?
Residential Recommendations
| Home Type | Recommended Frequency | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Residential | 2 times per year (spring & fall) | Removes seasonal pollen, winter grime, summer dust |
| Near Busy Roads/Construction | 4 times per year (quarterly) | Heavy dust and pollution accumulation |
| Coastal Homes | 4 times per year | Salt spray causes buildup and potential damage |
| Homes with Many Trees | 3-4 times per year | Pollen, sap, and debris accumulate quickly |
| Rental Properties | Between tenants + annually | Maintains property value and curb appeal |
Commercial Recommendations
- Retail storefronts: Monthly (appearance is critical for business)
- Office buildings: Quarterly (professional appearance)
- Restaurants: Monthly to bi-monthly (cleanliness standards)
- Medical facilities: Monthly (hygiene requirements)
- Warehouses: Annually or as needed (less visibility focus)
Signs You Need Window Cleaning Now
- Visible streaks or spots that won't wipe away
- Reduced natural light coming through windows
- Pollen or dust buildup on glass
- Hard water stains forming on exterior
- Cobwebs around window frames
- Can't see clearly through the glass
- Preparing to sell or show your home
- After storms or heavy weather
🔍 How to Find Reliable Window Cleaners Near You
Where to Look
| Platform Type | Cost Impact | Pros & Cons |
|---|---|---|
| National Chains (Fish Window Cleaning) | 30-50% higher | ✓ Brand recognition ✓ Insurance/bonding ✗ High overhead ✗ Corporate pricing ✗ Less personal service |
| Commission Platforms (TaskRabbit) | 15-30% higher | ✓ Variety of cleaners ✓ Reviews available ✗ Platform fees ✗ Quality varies ✗ Cleaners earn less |
| Local Marketplaces (GigNGo) | Fair market rate | ✓ Zero fees = lower prices ✓ Direct communication ✓ Local professionals ✓ Real reviews ✓ Build relationships ✓ Cleaners keep 100% |
| Local Independent Cleaners | Fair market rate | ✓ Personal service ✓ Competitive pricing ✗ Harder to find ✗ May lack reviews ✗ Variable quality |
💡 Why Local Platforms Save You Money
On zero-fee platforms like GigNGo, you connect directly with local window cleaners without middleman markups:
- No platform fees: Cleaners don't pay 15-30% commission, so they charge less
- Direct communication: Discuss your needs and get accurate quotes
- Local professionals: Find experienced cleaners in your neighborhood
- Real reviews: See feedback from actual local customers
- Build relationships: Find reliable cleaners for regular maintenance
- Transparent pricing: See what you're paying upfront
- Better for cleaners: They keep 100% of earnings, so they're more motivated
- Flexible scheduling: Easier to arrange convenient times
Average savings: 30-50% compared to national chains, while cleaners earn more. Everyone wins.
What to Look For in Window Cleaners
Qualities of Reliable Window Cleaners:
- Good reviews from multiple customers (10+ reviews)
- Before/after photos showing their work
- Professional equipment (squeegees, extension poles, etc.)
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees
- Insurance and bonding (especially for high windows)
- Willing to provide references
- Explains their process and methods
- Offers free estimates
- Punctual and professional
- Doesn't pressure you into add-ons
- Uses professional-grade cleaning solutions
- Has proper safety equipment for high windows
⚠️ Red Flags to Avoid
- Extremely low prices — May cut corners or lack insurance
- No reviews or references — Can't verify quality
- No insurance — You're liable if they're injured or damage property
- Vague about methods — Should explain their process
- Requires full payment upfront — Pay after work is done
- Won't provide written estimate — Always get it in writing
- Shows up without proper equipment — Unprofessional
- Pressures you into unnecessary services — Should be honest about needs
- Can't reach high windows safely — Safety risk
- Doesn't clean up after themselves — Check reviews for this
📋 What to Expect During Window Cleaning
The Professional Window Cleaning Process
- Initial assessment: Cleaner inspects windows, notes problem areas
- Setup: Lays down drop cloths, sets up ladders/equipment
- Pre-treatment: Sprays windows with cleaning solution
- Scrubbing: Uses scrubber or brush to loosen dirt
- Squeegee: Removes water and solution in overlapping strokes
- Detailing: Wipes edges, corners, and frames
- Inspection: Checks for streaks or missed spots
- Cleanup: Removes equipment, cleans up any drips
How Long Does Window Cleaning Take?
| Home Size | Interior & Exterior | Exterior Only |
|---|---|---|
| Small Home (10-15 windows) | 1.5-2.5 hours | 1-1.5 hours |
| Medium Home (15-25 windows) | 2-3.5 hours | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Large Home (25-35 windows) | 3-5 hours | 2-3.5 hours |
| Very Large Home (35+ windows) | 5-8 hours | 3.5-5 hours |
Before the Cleaners Arrive:
- Clear window sills of decorations and items
- Move furniture away from windows if needed
- Secure pets in another room
- Unlock windows if interior cleaning is included
- Point out any problem windows or concerns
- Ensure access to water and electrical outlets
- Clear pathways to all windows
- Discuss any delicate or special windows
After Window Cleaning:
- Inspect windows for streaks or missed spots
- Address any concerns immediately with cleaner
- Check that screens are reinstalled properly
- Verify all windows lock correctly
- Take after photos for your records
- Leave a review to help others
- Schedule next cleaning if satisfied
- Maintain windows with regular dusting
💡 Pro Tips for Window Cleaning
Save Money
- Use local platforms: Save 30-50% vs. national chains
- Schedule regularly: Repeat customers often get discounts
- Book off-peak: Weekday mornings often cheaper
- Do interior yourself: Hire pros for exterior only
- Skip unnecessary add-ons: Only get what you need
- Bundle services: Combine with gutter or pressure washing
- Get multiple quotes: Compare 3-5 estimates
- Maintain between cleanings: Reduces buildup and cost
Maintain Between Professional Cleanings
- Dust regularly: Prevents buildup on interior windows
- Spot clean as needed: Address bird droppings, fingerprints immediately
- Use microfiber cloths: Lint-free and streak-free
- Clean screens seasonally: Vacuum or rinse with hose
- Wipe sills and tracks: Prevents dirt accumulation
- Use proper solutions: Avoid harsh chemicals that damage glass
- Clean on cloudy days: Sun causes streaking
- Professional cleaning schedule: Stick to recommended frequency
Extend Time Between Professional Cleanings
- Install window screens: Reduces exterior dirt
- Trim nearby trees: Less sap and pollen
- Clean gutters regularly: Prevents splash-back on windows
- Use rain repellent: Helps water sheet off
- Address hard water quickly: Prevents permanent staining
- Keep sprinklers away: Reduces mineral deposits
- Dust interior regularly: Prevents buildup
- Touch up between cleanings: Spot clean problem areas
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How much does professional window cleaning cost?
Professional window cleaning costs $2-7 per window pane or $150-300 for average homes. Pricing factors: number of windows, window size, accessibility, interior/exterior, screen cleaning, and location. Single-story homes: $100-250. Two-story homes: $200-400. Three-story homes: $300-600+. Additional services: screen cleaning ($1-3 per screen), track cleaning ($2-5 per window), hard water stain removal ($50-150). On local platforms like GigNGo, find window cleaners 30-50% cheaper than national chains.
How often should I have my windows professionally cleaned?
Most homes need professional window cleaning 2-4 times per year. Residential recommendations: 2 times per year (spring and fall) for standard maintenance, 4 times per year (quarterly) for homes near busy roads, construction, or coastal areas. Commercial buildings: monthly to quarterly depending on visibility needs. Factors affecting frequency: location (urban vs. rural), weather (rain, pollen, dust), nearby construction, trees/pollen sources, and business visibility needs. Regular cleaning prevents hard water stains and extends window life.
What's included in professional window cleaning?
Standard professional window cleaning includes: washing interior and exterior glass surfaces, wiping down frames and sills, removing cobwebs around windows, and streak-free drying. Usually extra cost: screen removal and cleaning, track cleaning, hard water stain removal, storm window cleaning, and high/difficult-to-reach windows. Always clarify what's included in your quote. Most professionals use squeegees, professional-grade solutions, and microfiber cloths for streak-free results.
Can I just have exterior windows cleaned?
Yes, exterior-only window cleaning is a common service costing $75-250 for average homes, typically 30-40% less than interior + exterior. Good for: between full cleanings, when interior windows are still clean, budget-conscious maintenance, or after storms/pollen season. Most professionals offer exterior-only service. However, for best results and maximum natural light, interior + exterior cleaning 2 times per year is recommended. Exterior-only can be done more frequently (3-4 times per year) with annual interior cleaning.
How long does professional window cleaning take?
Professional window cleaning takes 1-5 hours depending on home size. Small home (10-15 windows): 1.5-2.5 hours for interior + exterior, 1-1.5 hours exterior only. Medium home (15-25 windows): 2-3.5 hours interior + exterior, 1.5-2.5 hours exterior only. Large home (25-35 windows): 3-5 hours interior + exterior, 2-3.5 hours exterior only. Factors affecting time: window accessibility, condition, add-on services (screens, tracks), and number of cleaners. Most residential jobs completed in one visit.
Do window cleaners bring their own equipment and supplies?
Yes, professional window cleaners bring all necessary equipment and supplies including: squeegees, extension poles, ladders, cleaning solutions, scrubbers, microfiber cloths, buckets, and drop cloths. You only need to provide: water access (hose or faucet), electrical outlet (if needed), and clear access to windows. Some services may charge extra for high windows requiring special equipment (lifts, scaffolding). Always confirm what's included in your quote. Professional-grade equipment and solutions produce better results than DIY methods.
Is window cleaning safe for high windows?
Professional window cleaners have proper safety equipment and training for high windows. Safety measures include: extension poles (reach up to 40 feet), stabilized ladders with proper footing, safety harnesses for extreme heights, insurance coverage for liability, and experience with safe techniques. For very high windows (3+ stories), professionals may use: water-fed poles, lifts or scaffolding, or rappelling equipment. Never attempt high window cleaning yourself—it's the leading cause of ladder injuries. Always hire insured professionals for windows above first-floor level.
Can window cleaning remove hard water stains?
Professional window cleaners can remove most hard water stains using specialized chemicals and tools. Removable stains: recent mineral deposits, light buildup, surface etching. Difficult/permanent stains: severe etching that's penetrated glass, years of untreated buildup, and damage to glass coating. Cost: $50-150 for hard water stain removal, $10-30 per window for severe cases. Prevention: clean windows regularly, fix sprinkler overspray, use water softener, and address buildup quickly. The longer hard water sits, the harder it is to remove. Regular professional cleaning prevents permanent damage.
How do I find reliable window cleaners near me?
Find reliable window cleaners by: checking reviews on local platforms like GigNGo, looking for before/after photos of their work, verifying they have professional equipment and insurance, getting detailed written quotes from 3-5 cleaners, asking about their cleaning method and process, requesting references from past customers, and choosing local professionals with established presence. Avoid: extremely low prices, no reviews, no insurance, vague about methods, or requiring full payment upfront. Local platforms connect you directly with vetted cleaners without middleman fees, saving 30-50%.
Should I tip window cleaners?
Tipping window cleaners is appreciated but not required. Standard tipping: 10-15% for exceptional service, $10-20 per cleaner for standard good service, or nothing if service was poor. Consider tipping more for: difficult jobs (many high windows), extreme weather conditions, going above and beyond expectations, or holiday season work. If you use a regular window cleaner, consider a holiday tip or bonus. For business owners (not employees), tipping is less expected. Positive reviews and referrals are also valuable ways to show appreciation.
Find Window Cleaning Services Near You
Connect with experienced local window cleaners. Compare quotes, check reviews, and save 30-50% compared to national chains.
Find Window Cleaners✓ Free to post ✓ Local professionals ✓ Direct pricing ✓ Real reviews
🎬 Final Thoughts
Professional window cleaning is an investment in your home's appearance, natural light, and curb appeal. By understanding the costs, knowing what to look for in a cleaner, and using local platforms to find quality services, you can keep your windows sparkling clean without overpaying.
✅ Quick Recap: Window Cleaning Services
Typical Costs:
- Per window: $2-7 per pane
- Average home: $150-300
- Exterior only: $100-250
- Save 30-50% using local platforms
Recommended Frequency:
- Standard homes: 2 times per year
- High-traffic/coastal: 4 times per year
- Commercial: monthly to quarterly
- Regular cleaning prevents damage
Finding Reliable Cleaners:
- Check reviews and before/after photos
- Get 3-5 written quotes
- Verify equipment and insurance
- Use local platforms to save money
- Avoid extremely low prices
Whether you need a one-time deep clean or regular maintenance, finding the right local window cleaner makes all the difference. Take time to research, compare quotes, and choose professionals who do quality work at fair prices.
Ready to get crystal-clear windows? Post your needs on GigNGo and connect with experienced local window cleaners who do quality work at fair prices.