Window cleaning costs: What you’ll pay for streak-free shine

Clean and sparkling windows help boost curb appeal while keeping more natural light indoors. However, dirt and dust build up over time, requiring a thorough cleaning. This is where hiring a professional window cleaner becomes a smart and practical solution.

Read on to learn more about window cleaning costs, including the factors that affect the prices and tips on how to get the most value for your money.

Clean and sparkly windows are a welcome sight. So when your windows become full of dirt, spots, and streaks, it's time to clean them. If you've got limited time on your hands, hiring a window cleaner is a lifesaver.

How much does window cleaning cost in the UK?

Window cleaning costs range from £10 to £80 for a residential home. However, these could go higher or lower based on different factors. Here’s an overview of the typical hourly rates and per-job costs of window cleaning prices in the UK.

A cleaner works on upper windows of a house using a ladder and squeegee. (Source: iStock)

What are the factors that affect window cleaning costs?

Window size and number

Size and number are two significant factors affecting how much it costs to clean windows. The bigger the window, the longer it will take to clean. The same logic holds for the number of windows; cleaning many small windows still takes time. More cleaning products will also be used, so window cleaning quotes will be higher.

Cleaning level

If dirt and debris have accumulated on your window, cleaning costs will be higher since special products and equipment might be used to treat the stains. It helps to regularly clean your window with a simple vinegar solution to help prevent the accumulation of dirt and reduce window cleaning costs.

Property type

The cost of cleaning a window in a single detached house will be higher compared to a flat. Apart from having more windows in a single detached home, accessibility is another factor. Window cleaners might need additional equipment to reach higher areas of the house.

For instance, window cleaning in a detached house is the most expensive, starting at £30 to £80 per job. On the other hand, it costs around £10 to £50 to clean the windows in a flat. If you have a residential property with big, multiple windows, expect to pay £150.

Here's a table of window cleaning costs by property type.

Window type

Windows come in different shapes and sizes. Multi-hung and multi-pane windows are beautiful and grand to look at. However, these designs are more intricate and require proper care than your usual single-pane window. This level of expertise in handling windows comes at a cost.

Window accessibility

If your window is in a higher part of the house, costs will be higher. Specialists might need a ladder or scaffolding to reach the window. For commercial windows, some expert tradespersons use a rope to access higher building floors efficiently.

Your location

Are you in a big city or suburb? Window cleaning costs vary depending on location. Some cities charge more for window cleaning due to higher operational costs. However, suburban areas can also have premiums, especially if your property isn't easily accessible or the demand for window cleaning is lower.

Cleaning frequency

Hiring a professional window cleaner for one-off interior and exterior cleaning will be more expensive than when you purchase a package that includes multiple sessions. You could get a discount of £5 to £10 per session for a monthly clean.

A tradesperson scrubs down outdoor windows using specialised tools (Source: iStock)

Why should you hire a professional window cleaner?

If you're tempted to skip the cleaners and do the job alone, you can use pantry ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. However, hiring a professional is ideal if you want to get the job done fast and with high quality. Here's why:

1. A professional cleaner helps preserve your window's functional qualities, like insulation. This enables you to save more on energy costs in the long run.

2. A professional is skilled in cleaning higher areas of your house. You'd need a ladder to access higher windows if you live in a two-storey home. This could get tricky, especially if you're not used to working at great heights.

3. A professional window cleaner has had the proper training to remove mould, mildew, and potentially dangerous insects that might have permeated your windows. A DIY project might result in further damage to your windows.

4. A professional window cleaner can diagnose different household problems, like leaks, cracks, and dampness, early on. By discovering these, you're saving yourself from a lot of inconveniences.

Restore your windows' shine with Airtasker!

Before booking a window cleaning service, here are some tips to help you prepare for the service and further save up on final costs:

1. Get multiple quotes from different window cleaning specialists. This will give you a better idea of your location's average window cleaning costs.

2. Ask if specialists offer budget-friendly packages for window and home cleaning or promos for multiple sessions of window cleaning. Doing so helps you keep your windows in tip-top condition throughout the year.

3. Some specialists offer discounts on weekends. If you're not in a hurry, you can also book a cleaning service on a weekday.

4. If you're planning to pay by the hour, remove potential obstructions, such as plants, furniture, and other bulky items blocking your window, to reduce the time spent cleaning your windows.

Overall, cleaning windows can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you have a thick layer of dirt to remove. When using various cleaning equipment, you have to be wary of window damage or, in some cases, chemical ingestion. 

At Airtasker, your windows will be restored to their former glory in just a few clicks! Simply post a task to connect with window cleaning experts near you.