Window cleaning is a very time consuming household task that can quickly become tedious over time... unless you use the right tools. For this purpose, the use of a window cleaner is a must. Equipped with a squeegee, a handle, a removable dirty water tank and a battery, this device has everything you need to keep your glass surfaces clean and streak-free in all circumstances. Which model should you choose? Read this guide to find out.
Here is our commitment, to make sure that we provide the best user experience and content quality:
You can support us by using our links to make your purchases (at no extra cost to you)! This sometimes earns us a commission which allows us to remain independent. More about us
Our selection
"Kärcher is a leading brand in the field of window cleaners. A reputation that it owes to the real performance of its appliances. This versatile…"
"This electric device is the one you need if you don't have small glass surfaces smaller than 28 cm to clean. Simple, but functional, it…"
"Intelligent and intuitive, this Ikohs window cleaning robot is able to clean a 1 m² surface in 4 minutes. To do this, it zigzags across…"
"This 360° device allows you to keep your windows sparkling clean. Ultra efficient, it absorbs water without leaving streaks or drips on the surface and…"
"Perfect for cleaning smooth and glassy surfaces, this Bosch-branded unit is able to reach into difficult spaces with its two head sizes available. Don't forget…"
Kärcher is a leading brand in the field of window cleaners. A reputation that it owes to the real performance of its appliances. This versatile model can help you clean any glass surface with its 17 and 28 cm squeegees.
47,99 £ on AmazonThe WV2 Premium is a particularly quiet (50 dB) cordless electric window cleaner with a non-removable battery. A device delivered in a complete, practical, solid and durable kit containing two interchangeable squeegees of 17 and 28 cm, for small and large glass surfaces, a sprayer on which the included microfiber wand can be attached, as well as a 20 ml bag of concentrated window cleaner.
Offering an autonomy of 35 minutes in continuous, that is to say the equivalent of approximately 105 m² of surface, the device embarks a lithium-ion battery which it is necessary to charge during a little more than 3 hours. Which is quite long, let's face it. Apart from that, thanks to its light weight of 600 g and its ergonomic handle, the WV2 is easy to handle. Also, you won't have any trouble finding spare or compatible accessories for it, given the seriousness of the brand.
This electric device is the one you need if you don't have small glass surfaces smaller than 28 cm to clean. Simple, but functional, it offers a greater autonomy than the Karcher WV2. and is offered at a price defying all competition.
34,38 £ on AmazonFunctional, lightweight and easy to handle, this cordless electric window cleaner cleans up to 25 windows on a single charge. It is especially suitable for cleaning glass surfaces larger than 28 cm. In addition to being easy to use, its removable 200 ml dirty water tank only adds to its practicality. This allows for quick and safe emptying of the unit. Everything is provided in this kit, you will even have a French manual to guide you in the right way to use and maintain the device.
Although the brand is a bit stingy in terms of details about the noise level of the Aidodo, the verdict was unanimous among the many satisfied users who have used it: this window cleaner is quiet and therefore not likely to assault your eardrums. In short, let yourself be tempted by this nice find that will save you
Intelligent and intuitive, this Ikohs window cleaning robot is able to clean a 1 m² surface in 4 minutes. To do this, it zigzags across the windows, removing dirt and restoring the shine to the windows.
159 £ on AmazonThis window cleaning robot owes its superb performance to its motor, its suction pump, but especially to its two rotating high-density fiber brushes that polish the windows as well as human hands. Like other robot cleaners in the same category, the Wipebot has a triple safety system. It has a 30-minute battery backup, a 6-meter safety cable and an air leakage sensor. In case of power failure, this robot is protected from falls.
However, the biggest advantage of this window cleaning robot is its mapping technology that allows it to determine the best route for perfect window cleaning. Note that for the purchase of this device, you are entitled to 12 spare mops.
This 360° device allows you to keep your windows sparkling clean. Ultra efficient, it absorbs water without leaving streaks or drips on the surface and is compatible with all Leifheit handles equipped with the Click System for access to glass surfaces located at height.
35,99 £ on AmazonWith this window cleaner, smooth and glassy surfaces such as bay windows, tiles and shower enclosures will be spotlessly clean. Most window cleaners on the market come in kits, but Leifheit changes the game by giving users the option of choosing the accessories they need to clean their tiles and windows. Thus, you can purchase the device with a telescopic handle, a small scraper and/or a large one, a cleaning spray, a wetting agent, a bucket, etc. It's up to you to choose according to your needs.
Efficiency and performance are at the rendezvous with a clean and streak-free result. The Leifheit also has a Click System that allows you to reach hard-to-reach surfaces and comes with a battery that lasts about 35 minutes. There is even a sleep function to save energy between windows. Note that this unit does not clean by scrubbing. It only dries and removes streaks.
Perfect for cleaning smooth and glassy surfaces, this Bosch-branded unit is able to reach into difficult spaces with its two head sizes available. Don't forget to register this unit on the Bosch website to extend the warranty from 2 to 3 years.
53,46 £ on AmazonThe Bosch GlassVAC window cleaner comes with a variety of useful accessories, including two sizes of cleaning heads, a spray bottle and two microfiber cloths. This rechargeable unit is simple to use and highly effective. It can even clean tiles, glass and mirrors in one pass, leaving minimal marks behind.
The overall performance of this window vacuum is impressive. When picking up spills, it is able to collect up to 98% of excess water and when cleaning tiles, the surface remains shiny and free of nozzle marks. The GlassVac also has an indicator light that alerts you when the battery is full or dead. For a better result, p
Any specific needs?
The best window cleaner in 2021
The best entry-level window cleaner in 2021
The best high-end window cleaner in 2021
For accessories to choose from
Your guide :
Rate this buying guide :By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!
| The best | Inexpensive | High end | Best entry-level alternative | Excellent | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Kärcher WV2 Premium special edition
|
Aidodo electric window cleaner
|
Ikohs Wipebot
|
Leifheit Dry & Clean
|
Bosch GlassVac Edition Wireless Window Cleaner
|
|
Kärcher is a leading brand in the field of window cleaners. A reputation that it owes to the real performance of its appliances. This versatile model can help you clean any glass surface with its 17 and 28 cm squeegees.
|
This electric device is the one you need if you don't have small glass surfaces smaller than 28 cm to clean. Simple, but functional, it offers a greater autonomy than the Karcher WV2. and is offered at a price defying all competition.
|
Intelligent and intuitive, this Ikohs window cleaning robot is able to clean a 1 m² surface in 4 minutes. To do this, it zigzags across the windows, removing dirt and restoring the shine to the windows.
|
This 360° device allows you to keep your windows sparkling clean. Ultra efficient, it absorbs water without leaving streaks or drips on the surface and is compatible with all Leifheit handles equipped with the Click System for access to glass surfaces located at height.
|
Perfect for cleaning smooth and glassy surfaces, this Bosch-branded unit is able to reach into difficult spaces with its two head sizes available. Don't forget to register this unit on the Bosch website to extend the warranty from 2 to 3 years.
|
|
|
Range
|
35 min
|
30 min
|
30 min
|
35 min
|
30 min
|
|
Area
|
105 m2
|
About 90m²
|
|
Up to 100 m2
|
-
|
|
Charging time
|
185 min
|
180 min
|
|
180 min
|
180 min
|
|
Weight
|
600 g
|
About 700 g
|
1.1 kg
|
740 g
|
700 g
|
|
Tank capacity
|
100 ml
|
200 ml
|
|
100 ml
|
100 ml
|
|
Accessories
|
1 sprayer, 1 squeegee 280 mm, 1 squeegee 170 mm, 1 concentrated glass cleaner 20 ml, 1 microfiber wand, 1 charger, 1 Li-Ion battery
|
1 280 mm vacuum squeegee, 1 sprayer, 1 microfiber wand, 1 charger
|
Window cleaner, remote control, batteries
|
1 vacuum cleaner & window cleaner with 28 cm nozzle, compatible with Click-System handles, interchangeable suction nozzle
|
GlassVAC, USB charger, spray bottle with microfiber cloth, 266 mm wiper + removable wiping lip, 133 mm wiper + removable wiping lip, carton
|
Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!
We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.
We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.
To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!
The longer the battery life of your window cleaner, the better! This will prevent you from interrupting the cleaning of your windows and making your household chores even more time consuming. Also, a longer battery life will allow your machine to work on larger areas of glass.
While
a typical window cleaner is small, it's not quiet. In fact, some models are louder than others. If you have sensitive ears, pay particular attention to this criterion. For this purpose, a sound level of 50 dB is considered silent.
Holding
an appliance at arm's length for more than half an hour can quickly become tedious. To that end, make sure you choose a window cleaner that is light enough for your body type without sacrificing efficiency and performance. Also, make sure that the device is not too bulky, and has a comfortable and ergonomic handle.
To
ensure the most enjoyable window cleaning sessions, make sure that the window cleaner you are about to buy has an on and off button positioned for easy operation. Also, for added convenience, make sure the dirty water tank is removable. Look for a window cleaner with a sufficiently large opening for emptying the tank and a cap that does not interfere with the operation. Finally, choose a model with a water tank that is neither too small so you don't have to empty it too often, nor too large which can make the machine heavy.
A properly sized squeegee will clean all types of glass surfaces. This ranges from large expanses of bay windows to small panes. Be aware that the size of this accessory often varies between 17 and 28 cm long and the squeegee should be less wide than the surface to be maintained, without being too small.
Do not use a window cleaner to clean your laptop or TV screen
In addition to harsh ingredients like ammonia, most window cleaners contain chemical compounds that can cause irreversible damage to delicate electronics, especially laptop screens and TV monitors. It's best to clean your computer screen with a soft microfiber cloth and distilled water, or with a special wipe.
Wear gloves when handling glass cleaner
The chemicals in glass cleaner can irritate and even burn your skin, so be careful when handling it.
Don't mix window cleaner with bleach
Many popular cleaning sprays containing chemicals are effective when used alone, but become dangerous when combined with other products. This is the case with a window cleaner, which contains ammonia mixed with bleach. When these two products are mixed together, they produce a toxic gas called chloramine.
Do not use glass cleaner on granite countertops
While glass cleaner may work well on some countertop surfaces (like laminate), repeated use on granite and marble can cause permanent damage. Not only can the chemicals in glass cleaner leave unsightly stains, but they can also break down the sealant that protects your countertops, ultimately dulling the shine of the polish. You need a specific granite cleaner.
Do not spray glass cleaner on thin or uncoated wood
Glass cleaner can be used in small doses to clean hardwood surfaces with thick finishes and sealers, such as regular wood floors. However, when used on precious wood surfaces, including veneered coffee tables or unpolished bookcases, glass cleaner can leave unsightly streaks.
Do not use ammonia-based window cleaner on car windshields
Not only can it potentially leave foggy spots that could seriously interfere with your driving, but ammonia-based cleaning sprays can also break down the tint on your car windows.
These are window cleaners that generally consist of a squeegee and a vacuum system. In addition to ensuring that your windows are sparkling clean, this cleaning device is offered at an affordable price.
The only drawback with window vacuums is that window cleaning must be done in the traditional way. Over time, cleaning your tiles and windows can quickly become a chore. This can be particularly painful since the tool must be carried at arm's length to access high windows. Thus, touching up the hard-to-reach parts of your glass surfaces at height will be most restrictive for you.
This type of window cleaner is more expensive compared to the traditional versions. It also works by suction, just like its traditional counterpart. However, what has changed is that the window washing is done by a nozzle that sends steam directly to the windows to clean them thoroughly while removing all kinds of marks (grease, stubborn marks, etc.).
If you are looking for a window cleaner that can clean in record time, the steam window cleaner is an excellent investment. Cordless, with multiple cleaning nozzles, etc., this type of window cleaner gives you a whole range of choices.
It is a window cleaner that cleans windows in a zigzag pattern, from top to bottom or from right to left. It holds vertically without falling thanks to suction valves. Intelligent and adjustable at will, this device automatically evaluates its cleaning trajectories. The device is powered by electricity and uses high power to perform its role brilliantly. However, its range of action is limited by the length of its power cord.
Note that a cordless version of this type of window cleaner is yet to come. If you plan to clean a large area with this robot, you will have to recharge its battery several times. This makes the cleaning session more tedious and time-consuming.
The magnetic window cleaner is a type of window cleaner that allows you to clean hard-to-reach windows from the outside. This manual system is inexpensive and solves this kind of situation. They are practical, but to be used gently to avoid the detachment of the 2 parts. A safety wire is provided to avoid losing the external part.
Window cleaners have rubber blades like manual squeegees, except that the blade is combined with a motor that creates suction, removing any liquids collected by the rubber blade. It is an efficient and easy-to-use tool that is now available in a wide range of models.
Basically, it is equipped with a squeegee, a handle, a removable dirty water tank as well as a battery and is for this purpose, generally proposed in kit. The kit can contain all kinds of accessories such as cleaning fluid nozzles, a vacuum cleaner head, several squeegees and a sprayer.
Thanks to its different sized squeegees, the glass cleaner is able to clean small glass surfaces and tiles. It can also be complemented with a telescopic handle that allows it to clean glass surfaces located at a height.
Despite all this, the window cleaner still has its limitations. Indeed, most of these devices are battery operated and provide an autonomy of 35 minutes on average. Once this time has elapsed, you will have to charge the device for a fairly long period of time of a little over 3 hours. Note that this autonomy is overestimated since it is not recommended to wait until the battery is completely flat before recharging the device.
The squeegee is a manual window cleaning tool that consists of a rubber blade and an ergonomic handle. As the squeegee passes through the window surface, a rubber blade is pressed onto the glass, removing virtually all liquids from the glass, leaving the surface clean and shiny, without marks or scratches.
Since the tool does not require a battery or electricity to operate, it saves you from interrupting your cleaning sessions if you've been cleaning for more than half an hour.
The problem with a squeegee is the removal of that water from the rubber blade itself. Some squeegees also come with a sponge/microfiber pad to help remove excess water, but they must be squeezed periodically into a tub. In addition, using a squeegee is particularly time consuming and tiring.
Manual squeegees and window cleaners can have blades made from other materials like foam or plastic, but rubber blades are the most common because they are both flexible and firm. Because of all these features, manual squeegees are lighter. In addition, they are also less expensive than window vacuums, but window cleaners ensure clean windows more easily and quickly.
Extending the life of your window
Regular window cleaning helps prevent scratching and pitting caused by dirt, debris and other contaminants that coat the glass. Dirt and dust easily accumulate on windows, etching into the glass and, over time, causing damage that may require window replacement.
To spot potential problems
When you regularly clean your windows, you'll spot problems that may include damaged glass, seals or frames. You'll be able to spot these small problems before they become major ones.
For a quality job
Using the right window cleaning tools and high-quality products makes a difference. With the right equipment, you can perform even deep cleaning of sills and cracks. Our quality cleaning products always produce shiny, streak-free windows. In addition, the right products and tools can easily handle the cleaning of special glass such as stained glass or tinted or UV-coated windows.
For a safer option than DIY
Not all windows are created equal. Triple-track storm windows, casement windows or even double-hung windows can be tricky and difficult to clean. With the right equipment, you can safely handle any type of window and even reach upper levels and skylights safely.
To improve the atmosphere in your home
Cleaned windows allow natural light to enter the home, enhancing the natural mood and atmosphere in your apartment. Clean windows also improve the appeal of the home, this is especially important if you are considering selling the home or showing it to friends.
Some models of window cleaners are intelligent devices
The principle of operation of the window cleaning robot is very simple. This makes this type of window cleaner easy to use. It spreads the cleaning product on the glass and cleans the surface with its brushes without scratching it. Its internal guidance system allows it to move over the entire surface, randomly or programmed. You can even specify a precise route in your settings.
In our opinion, the best brands of window cleaners in 2022 are :
Bosch, the German multinational engineering and technology company founded in 1886, is no longer limited to its automotive accessories. Today, thanks to its years of experience and innovation, the brand is also known for its high-pressure cleaners and window cleaners. Thanks to its long experience and its German know-how, Bosch products are robust, reliable and efficient.
The German brand's motto is to make your daily life as comfortable as possible. Its products, such as mops and window cleaners, are of excellent quality, guaranteeing a long life. Leifheit is a specialist in the field of cleaning, home care and laundry care and currently employs around 1100 people and operates around 14 locations worldwide.
Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG is a German family-owned company that operates worldwide and is known for its high-pressure cleaners, floor care equipment, parts cleaning systems, wash water treatment, military decontamination equipment and window vacuums. This brand's products are all of the highest quality, the Karcher 2,700 PSI 2.5 GPM residential gasoline pressure washer being a testament to that.
Air conditioning systems, vacuum cleaners, robotic cleaners, and pet food dispensers, Ikhos has made its specialties for many years. If you are looking for quality and performance above all else, Ikhos products are sure to surprise you.
Amibot is a French brand that specializes in window and floor cleaning robots. Although its products are of excellent quality, they remain accessible to the greatest number.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Never use a blade or razor
No matter how stubborn some of the glued materials may be, never use a razor or any other type of blade to scrape them off. This can cause permanent scratches and make your windows more vulnerable in the future.
Rinse with clean water if any residue remains
If you find that you still have streaks after cleaning your window, simply rinse with clean water to help remove any remaining cleaning solution.
Cleaning the tank
To prevent limescale from forming in your window cleaner's reservoir, inject a dose of biodegradable anti-limescale solution or a mixture of warm water and white vinegar into the reservoir before turning on the unit.
Cleaning the exterior of the unit
Gently rub the outside of your window cleaner with a damp cloth. You can soak it with a small amount of bleach or hot water to effectively remove stains on the shell.
Cleaning the glass at extreme temperatures
When you're washing your windows in hot weather, you'll save more work time by using cold water. However, if you're working in below-freezing temperatures, add windshield wash solution until the water doesn't freeze on the glass.
The principle of operation between the different Kärcher models is often similar. First, spray the glass cleaner onto the surface to be cleaned (detergents often need to be diluted). You can use the 2-in-1 sprayer that usually comes with the Kärcher machine. It will spray the product through the glass and then scrub the glass to remove contamination using a microfiber wand that it comes equipped with. You can also scrub the surface to be cleaned in one motion. Then, use the cleaner to vacuum the water. Squeegee methodically for impeccable results. Don't forget to insist on the corners and nooks of the window. Also use a paper to wel for a clean finish but this is optional. Dirty water will go into the tank of the device, you can empty it when full or after each use. You should also clean the rubber (or silicone, depending on the model) tips as they may make your windows even dirtier the next time you clean them.
Each window cleaner has a noise level that differs by brand and model. However, a device of this kind is said to be silent when it emits a noise level evaluated at 50 dB. This level should not exceed 68 dB. However, everything will also depend on the auditory sensitivities of each user.
Window cleaners can clean all flat surfaces such as glass, tiles, and many plastics. In short, they clean both glass and smooth surfaces, whether it's an aquarium, a car windshield, a coffee table, a mirror, the walls of your shower stall, etc.
You have two options: either get a special detergent available in the store, or opt for a homemade detergent recipe. Be aware that Kärcher offers a window cleaner liquid that is quite expensive (about €5 for 500 ml) in the long run, but ultra effective in getting rid of even the most stubborn stains like grease and lime deposits. For the second option, here is a recipe for homemade detergent that also works very well: mix together 50 cl of hot water, half a teaspoon of washing-up liquid and 5 cl of white vinegar.
Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.
Copyright © 2022 - Made with ♥ by buyingbetter.co.uk
Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!
