Starting a window washing business from home is an excellent way to earn steady income with low startup costs. Residential and commercial clients always need clean windows, making this a high-demand service. With the right tools, marketing, and pricing strategy, you can build a profitable business quickly. Here’s your complete guide to getting started.
Step 1: Research the Industry & Services
Window washing services typically include:
- Residential Window Cleaning – Exterior & interior glass, tracks, and screens.
- Commercial Window Cleaning – Storefronts, office buildings, and high-rise windows.
- Specialty Cleaning – Hard water stain removal, post-construction cleaning, and solar panel cleaning.
Step 2: Purchase the Right Equipment
Invest in professional tools for the best results. Here’s a checklist:
✅ Squeegees (various sizes)
✅ Extension poles for high windows
✅ High-quality window cleaning solution
✅ Microfiber cloths and scrapers
✅ Ladder and safety harness (for higher jobs)
✅ Buckets and water-fed pole system (optional)
✅ Business vehicle for transporting equipment
Step 3: Register Your Business & Get Insured
- Choose a business name and register it as an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation.
- Get liability insurance to protect against accidental damage.
- Check local regulations for any required permits or business licenses.
Step 4: Set Competitive Pricing
Pricing depends on window size, accessibility, and service frequency. Here’s a rough pricing guide:
| Service | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Exterior Window Cleaning | $5 – $10 per window |
| Interior Window Cleaning | $3 – $8 per window |
| Full Home (20-30 windows) | $150 – $400 |
| Commercial Storefronts | $50 – $150 per visit |
Offer discounts for recurring customers or bulk services to encourage repeat business.
Step 5: Market Your Business Locally
- Create a website using Wix or WordPress.
- Register on Google My Business to appear in local searches.
- Print flyers and door hangers for neighborhoods and businesses.
- Join community Facebook groups and post before-and-after photos.
- Offer referral discounts to get word-of-mouth marketing.
Step 6: Get Your First Clients
- Start with friends, family, and neighbors to build a portfolio.
- Offer promotional pricing for first-time customers.
- Use platforms like Thumbtack and TaskRabbit to get local leads.
- Partner with real estate agents and property managers for steady work.
Step 7: Deliver Exceptional Service
To keep customers coming back:
- Arrive on time and in uniform for a professional image.
- Use eco-friendly cleaning solutions for health-conscious clients.
- Offer satisfaction guarantees to build trust.
- Suggest quarterly or bi-annual cleaning plans for repeat business.
Step 8: Accept Payments & Track Finances
- Use Square (https://squareup.com/) or PayPal for card payments.
- Track income and expenses with QuickBooks (https://quickbooks.intuit.com/).
- Automate appointment scheduling with Calendly (https://calendly.com/).
Step 9: Expand Services for Higher Profits
Consider adding:
- Gutter cleaning
- Power washing
- Solar panel cleaning
- Hard water stain removal
These services increase revenue and provide year-round work.
Step 10: Scale Your Business
- Hire employees or subcontractors as demand grows.
- Wrap your vehicle with business branding for mobile advertising.
- Offer subscription-based plans for recurring monthly income.
- Network with local businesses and apartment complexes to secure long-term contracts.
Pros & Cons of a Window Washing Business
| Pros | Cons |
| Low startup costs | Physically demanding work |
| High demand | Weather-dependent income |
| Scalable business | Some jobs require high ladders |
| Recurring clients | Need transportation for equipment |
Checklist to Start Your Window Washing Business
✅ Purchase professional cleaning equipment
✅ Register your business and obtain insurance
✅ Set up local marketing (website, flyers, referrals)
✅ Offer promotions to attract first clients
✅ Provide excellent service for repeat business
✅ Accept payments through multiple platforms
✅ Scale by adding services and hiring help
Reputable Resources for Window Cleaners
- International Window Cleaning Association – https://www.iwca.org/ (Industry standards & training)
- WCR (Window Cleaning Resource) – https://windowcleaner.com/ (Supplies & community forum)
- National Association of Home Builders – https://www.nahb.org/ (Networking & business growth opportunities)
Final Thoughts
A window washing business is a fantastic way to earn income with minimal startup costs. With the right marketing and outstanding service, you can build a reliable customer base and expand into high-paying commercial contracts. Take the first step today, and start growing your business!
