One question we get asked all the time as professional window cleaners is: “How long does it take to professionally clean windows?” Dirty windows and think, “I’ll get to that next weekend” — only to squint through grime for the next three months? Yeah, you’re not alone.
Short answer? 1 hour to a full day. Long answer? Grab a chair — we’ve got decades of Residential window cleaning and commercial window cleaning services under our belt, and trust us, it’s not a one-size-fits-all gig.
The Prep That Eats Time
Professional window cleaning doesn’t start with the glass — it starts with the groundwork. We’re talking:
- Moving pot plants, outdoor furniture, fly screens and fragile items
- Laying down drop sheets to protect floors or carpets (especially indoors)
- Ensuring access windows are open or keys are handy
- Checking window screens, window tracks and window sills for debris, wasps or the odd mozzie nest
- Setting up ladders or safety gear for upstairs windows or third-floor arches
That prep work can take 15-30 minutes or longer depending on the size of the job and how cluttered things are. We always recommend moving personal items and breakables before we arrive — it makes life easier for everyone.
Size, Layout & Window Count Matter
Project size is the biggest time factor. A window cleaning specialist will look at more than just bedroom count — we assess the number of panes, sizes of squeegees needed, window types and access.
Cleaning the ground floor of an average house is not the same as tackling big, vintage style steel framed windows on the 2nd floor with no side access.
Here’s a rough guide:
| Property Type | Exterior Only | Inside & Out |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom unit | 1–1.5 hours | 1.5–2.5 hours |
| 3-bedroom house | 2–3 hours | 3–5 hours |
| 5-bedroom double-storey | 4–6 hours | 6–8+ hours |
| Office building (small) | 1.5–3 hours | 3–5 hours |
| Multi-storey rise job | 1+ hour per level | Mostly exterior only |
We factor in window frames, window sills, double windows, multi-pane windows and additional storm windows when quoting. The more glass features the longer it takes.
Interior & Exterior — or Just the Outside?
Exterior windows take the brunt of the elements — dust, bird poo, mineral deposits, you name it. But interior glass gets fingerprints, condensation and even pet slobber.
An exterior only clean will get your place looking half decent from the street but to actually improve natural light and make your whole window sparkle we recommend a full service.
Interior cleaning adds time — usually 30-50% more. Especially when we’re:
- Washing window tracks
- Detailing window frames and sills
- Dealing with furniture or blinds in the way
If you want streak-free results on the lot — inside, outside and tracks — expect a few extra hours.
The Dirtier They Are, the Longer It Takes
We’ve cleaned windows so dirty you could lose a toddler behind them. If you haven’t cleaned your glass in over a year — or worse never — we’ll need extra time.
Why?
- Stubborn stains need soaking and scrubbing
- Water stains and hard water mineral deposits don’t lift with a quick spray bottle pass
- Fly screens collect loose dirt and need washing separately
- Tracks filled with dead bugs and pet hair slow us down
Dirty windows aren’t just a pain — they lead to permanent damage over time. Crusted debris etches glass and unmaintained seals allow water damage to sneak in. Better to do frequent cleaning (every 6-12 months) than wait 5 years and need replacement glass.
Weather Delays Aren’t Just About Rain
You’d think wet weather is our only problem. Nope. Here’s what else messes with a window cleaning business:
- Strong wind: Not safe on ladders, especially for high-rise window cleaning services
- Extreme heat: Soapy water evaporates before we get to the squeegee blade
- Frost: Not ideal for streak-free windows
Melbourne? Four seasons in a day. We adjust timing by suburb — East Melbourne may dry slower than windy West Melbourne.
Extras Done? That’ll Add Time
Extras mean extra time. If you book a basic exterior wash but ask us on the day to throw in:
- Balcony glass cleaning
- Gutter cleaning services
- Window screen cleaning and track detailing
- High-pressure cleaning for your driveway or pool fence
…that’s more gear and more hours.
Be upfront when you book. We’ll quote accurate time estimates and bring the right cleaning tools and professional window cleaning products to avoid delays.
If you’re in Victoria, the Window Cleaning Melbourne Crew knows all the local quirks — from coastal salt spray to that infamous spring pollen haze. Our residential exterior cleaning experts come prepared for it all.
Post-Clean Walkthroughs & Touch-Ups
Any proper professional window cleaning service includes a final walk around. We spot:
- Leftover streaks
- Drips in corners
- Missed panes
- Sticky spots from tape or stickers
This can take 10–30 minutes depending on project size. But it’s key for delivering that streak-free finish that’ll have your guests saying, “Did you get new windows or what?”
Tools, Techniques, & Time-Saving Tricks
Want a faster clean?
Do this before we arrive:
- Move personal items from under the window areas
- Unlock gates, doors, and window locks for easy access
- Secure pets indoors for safety
- Remove flyscreens if you’re comfortable doing so
We use:
- Quality squeegees and bamboo cloths
- Microfiber cleaning cloths and lint-free cloths
- Ammonia-free window cleaners for a streak-free finish
- Specialised cleaning solutions matched to your surface type
- Water-fed pole systems for high window access
What Affects the Clock (Recap)
Here’s what adds or cuts time:
| Factor | Adds Time | Saves Time |
|---|---|---|
| Dirty windows | ✓ | |
| Interior & exterior | ✓ | |
| Exterior only | ✓ | |
| Screens/tracks included | ✓ | |
| Glass only | ✓ | |
| 2-storey or access issues | ✓ | |
| Ground floor only | ✓ | |
| Window count/size | ✓ | |
| Standard window layout | ✓ | |
| Add-ons (gutters, balconies) | ✓ | |
| None requested | ✓ | |
| Water supply nearby | ✓ | |
| Pre-moved furniture | ✓ |
FAQ
How long does it take to clean office windows?
Small office building 2-3 hours. Multi-floor commercial windows 1-2 hours per floor depending on access and safety requirements.
Will rain ruin the job after cleaning?
No — clean water (rainwater) won’t leave marks. It’s dirty windows that collect grime streaks. Clean windows stay cleaner even after showers.
Do I need to be home for the appointment?
Only if we’re doing interior work, for exterior only jobs can we do the lot if the gates are unlocked and there’s water access.
What’s the difference between washing windows and cleaning them?
Washing might just be a hose down. Window cleaning includes squeegeeing, detailing frames and drying for a streak free result. Big difference in outcome.
Do you bring your own cleaning products and tools?
Yep. We carry everything from micro-fibre cloths and spray bottles to special equipment for tall glasses and tight corners. You won’t need to lift a finger.