Getting it right: How to achieve streak-free windows using a washer and window squeegee

If you are using a washer and window squeegee to clean windows, the S technique is one of the most common methods. It is an everyday method for professionals, and trainee commercial cleaners are taught it during their training. If done correctly, it guarantees sparkling end results.

First, fill the bucket with water and add some cleaning agent – check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct dose. Now use the microfibre surface cloth: wet it, wring it out and place it on the bottom left-hand corner of the window frame. Now thoroughly clean the frame in an inverted “U” shape.

After cleaning the frame, plunge the washer completely in the water and use it to wash the window pane entirely. Use the so-called S movement. DON’T hold the washer in the same hand that you will use to hold the squeegee, but in your other hand. This is a more ergonomic approach as it ensures an even load on your arms. Remove stubborn dirt with the scrub pad, which is included on high-quality washers.

When it comes to adhesive residue and paint stains, sometimes the washer alone isn’t enough. However, professionals can quickly remove stubborn dirt of this type by using a glass scraper. It is important that you only use the scraper where it is really necessary. Make sure that the window is wet before using the scraper – this way, the dirt will stick to it. In addition, make sure that the blade is free of rust, because rust increases the risk of scratches. Handling the scraper correctly is important: you get the best results by moving the glass scraper in short, sickle-like movements over the soiling on the glass, applying a light pressure from top to bottom. Never use the scraper in the other direction, otherwise you may press dirt particles into the window pane and scratch the glass. You need to be very careful here to avoid damage. When you have finished with the scraper, pull the blade back into the housing or – depending on the model – put the protective flap back on, as the blade is very sharp.

Now it's time for the window squeegee. You can also use the S technique here to clean the glass. If you proceed correctly, you can safely rule out streaks and marks. Place the squeegee on the edge of the window pane, pull it up into the corner at an acute angle and then across to the other side. You should focus here on the front, protruding end of the window squeegee: if you position it correctly, the rest happens almost by itself. Throughout the cleaning process, your movements should be as fluid as possible. The corner areas usually require a bit of practice, but experience has shown that after a short time, commercial cleaners learn to use this technique safely and routinely.

Now it’s time for the finishing touches: Using the second cloth – the microfibre cloth for glass – soak up the remaining water from the top, bottom and side edges.

And that’s it. The glass should now be perfectly clean. Commercial cleaners who are just starting out in their careers may occasionally find at the beginning that they have left a few streaks on the glass. However, this is no problem: simply go over the window with the microfibre glass cloth and polish the affected areas. Practice makes perfect, and speed comes with experience too. As soon as you learn to carry out all these window-cleaning steps correctly, you are guaranteed to achieve crystal-clear results!

Our short tutorial clearly explains in words and pictures how easy it is to clean windows without leaving any streaks.