Car & Window Cleaning

About Car & Window Cleaning

Professional car and window cleaning requires specialised equipment that delivers streak-free results whilst saving time and effort. Our car and window cleaning category brings together essential tools for tradespeople, professional cleaners, and demanding DIY enthusiasts who need reliable equipment for cleaning vehicles, windows, glass surfaces, and exterior building maintenance. From traditional window squeegees to advanced running water systems and gutter cleaning equipment, we stock the products that make light work of these essential cleaning tasks.

Whether you're a professional window cleaner tackling multiple properties daily, a vehicle valeting specialist maintaining showroom standards, or a homeowner who takes pride in spotless windows and a gleaming car, having the right tools makes all the difference. Modern cleaning equipment has evolved significantly, with innovations like water-fed poles, purified water systems, and telescopic tools allowing safe access to high windows without ladders. These professional-grade solutions not only improve cleaning efficiency but also enhance safety by reducing the need for working at height.

The products in this category are designed to deliver professional results with minimal physical strain. Running water systems eliminate the need for constant bucket refills, whilst ergonomically designed squeegees and extension poles help you reach difficult areas comfortably. For tradespeople who clean windows as part of property maintenance or facilities management, investing in quality equipment pays dividends through faster job completion and superior finish quality that keeps clients satisfied.

Jargon Buster

Water-Fed Pole

A telescopic pole system that delivers purified water directly to a brush head, allowing windows to be cleaned from ground level without ladders. The purified water dries naturally without leaving streaks or spots.

Deionised Water

Water that has had minerals and impurities removed through a filtration process. This purified water is essential for professional window cleaning as it leaves no residue when it dries, eliminating the need for squeegee drying.

Squeegee Channel

The metal frame that holds the rubber blade of a window squeegee. Professional squeegees feature channels in various widths (typically 250mm to 450mm) to suit different window sizes.

Microfibre Applicator

A cleaning pad made from ultra-fine synthetic fibres that effectively lift dirt and grime whilst being gentle on surfaces. These are commonly used for applying cleaning solution before squeegeeing.

TDS (Total Dissolved Solids)

A measurement (in parts per million) of minerals and impurities in water. Professional window cleaners aim for 0-5 TDS to ensure spot-free drying.

Gutter Vacuum

A specialised vacuum system with extension tubes designed to remove debris from gutters whilst working from ground level, eliminating the need for ladder work.

Who Uses Car & Window Cleaning Equipment?

• Professional Window Cleaners – self-employed tradespeople and cleaning companies serving residential and commercial clients
• Vehicle Valeting Specialists – mobile and fixed-location car cleaning professionals who demand showroom-quality results
• Facilities Managers – responsible for maintaining commercial buildings, offices, schools, and healthcare facilities
• Property Maintenance Companies – multi-trade contractors who include window cleaning as part of comprehensive building maintenance services
• Caretakers and Groundskeepers – maintaining schools, sports facilities, and public buildings
• Solar Panel Installers and Maintainers – requiring specialist equipment to keep panels clean and operating efficiently
• Conservatory and Glazing Installers – cleaning new installations as part of their service
• Car Dealerships – keeping showroom vehicles and forecourt stock in pristine condition
• Homeowners and DIY Enthusiasts – those who prefer professional-grade equipment for maintaining their own property and vehicles

How to Choose the Right Car & Window Cleaning Equipment

Consider Your Working Height: For ground-floor windows and vehicles, traditional squeegees and buckets may suffice. However, if you regularly clean first-floor windows or above, invest in water-fed pole systems or telescopic equipment that allows safe working from ground level, in line with HSE guidance on working at height.

Frequency of Use: Occasional users can manage with basic equipment, but professional cleaners should invest in durable, ergonomically designed tools that withstand daily use. Look for reinforced handles, professional-grade rubber blades, and robust construction from reputable brands that offer replacement parts.

Water Source and Quality: If you're considering a running water system, you'll need either access to a vehicle-mounted water tank or a connection point for a portable deionisation system. Check the TDS reading of your local water supply – hard water areas will require more frequent filter changes.

Portability Requirements: Mobile professionals need lightweight, compact equipment that's easy to transport between jobs. Consider systems that break down into manageable sections and equipment that can be easily stored in a van.

Surface Types: Different surfaces require different approaches. Traditional squeegees excel on flat glass, whilst water-fed brushes work better on textured glass, conservatory roofs, and solar panels. For vehicles, you'll need softer brushes and applicators that won't scratch paintwork.

Budget vs. Quality: Whilst professional equipment represents a significant investment, quality tools last longer and deliver better results. Consider the cost per job rather than just the initial purchase price – reliable equipment reduces callback visits and builds your professional reputation.

Popular Accessories

• Replacement Squeegee Rubbers – available in different hardness grades for various temperatures and cleaning conditions
• Microfibre Cloths and Scrim – for detailing work and achieving a perfect finish
• Extension Poles – telescopic and fixed-length options for reaching high windows safely
• Deionisation Filters and Cartridges – essential consumables for water-fed pole systems
• Bucket and Holster Sets – professional carriers that attach to belts or ladders for efficient working
• Cleaning Solutions and Detergents – specially formulated for vehicle and window cleaning without leaving residue
• Gutter Cleaning Attachments – extension tubes and specialised nozzles for clearing debris
• Brush Heads – various sizes and bristle types for different cleaning applications
• Water Storage Tanks – for vehicle mounting to provide mobile water supply
• Chamois Leathers – natural and synthetic options for drying and polishing

Safety Information

Working at Height: Working from ladders presents significant risks and is a leading cause of workplace injuries. The HSE recommends avoiding ladder work wherever possible. Water-fed pole systems and telescopic equipment allow most windows to be cleaned safely from ground level, eliminating fall risks and complying with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

Chemical Safety: When using cleaning detergents and solutions, follow COSHH guidelines. Always read product labels, use appropriate dilution rates, and wear suitable gloves to protect your skin. Store chemicals securely and ensure adequate ventilation when working indoors.

Electrical Safety: When using powered equipment such as gutter vacuums or pressure washers, ensure they comply with UK electrical standards (230V). Use RCD protection when working outdoors and regularly inspect cables and plugs for damage. Never use electrical equipment in wet conditions unless specifically rated for such use.

Vehicle Cleaning Safety: Ensure vehicles are parked on level ground with handbrakes applied before cleaning. Be aware of traffic when cleaning vehicles on driveways or in car parks. Use appropriate warning signs if working near roadways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between traditional squeegee cleaning and water-fed pole systems?

Traditional squeegee cleaning involves applying cleaning solution with a cloth or applicator, then removing it with a rubber blade squeegee, typically requiring ladder access for upper windows. Water-fed pole systems use purified water pumped through a telescopic pole to a brush head, allowing cleaning from ground level. The purified water dries naturally without leaving marks, eliminating the need for squeegeeing. Whilst water-fed poles have a higher initial cost, they're safer, faster for multi-storey work, and increasingly preferred by professional window cleaners.

How often should I replace squeegee rubbers?

Professional window cleaners typically replace squeegee rubbers every 2-4 weeks depending on usage intensity and working conditions. Signs that replacement is needed include streaking, the rubber feeling hard or brittle, visible nicks or tears, or the edge becoming rounded rather than sharp. In cold weather, rubbers may need more frequent replacement as they become less flexible. Keeping spare rubbers on hand ensures you can maintain professional standards without interruption.

Can I use tap water in a water-fed pole system?

Standard tap water contains minerals that leave spots and streaks when dried, making it unsuitable for professional window cleaning. Water-fed pole systems require purified water with a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) reading of 0-5 parts per million. You'll need either a deionisation system, reverse osmosis unit, or a combination of both to purify your water supply. The investment in water purification equipment is essential for achieving the streak-free results that water-fed pole cleaning promises.

What equipment do I need to start a professional window cleaning business?

At minimum, you'll need quality squeegees in various sizes (typically 250mm, 300mm, and 350mm), microfibre applicators or sleeves, a professional bucket, cleaning solution, lint-free cloths, and an extension pole for first-floor windows. As you build your business, consider investing in a water-fed pole system for safer, faster cleaning of higher windows. Don't forget essentials like public liability insurance, proper business insurance for your equipment, and compliance with health and safety regulations including working at height considerations.

How do I prevent streaks when cleaning windows?

Streak-free windows require the right technique and equipment. Ensure your squeegee rubber is in good condition with a sharp edge, use proper cleaning solution at the correct dilution, and maintain consistent pressure and angle whilst squeegeeing. Work from top to bottom, overlapping each stroke slightly, and wipe the squeegee blade between passes. Clean windows on overcast days when possible, as direct sunlight causes cleaning solution to dry too quickly, creating streaks. With water-fed pole systems, ensure your water is properly purified (0-5 TDS) for spot-free drying.