How water-fed pole cleaning works
A water-fed pole system uses an extendable pole, usually carbon fibre, with a brush on the end and jets that spray purified water. Tap water is filtered – typically through reverse osmosis and deionisation resin – to remove the minerals that cause spots. The cleaner scrubs the glass and frames with the brush, then rinses with the pure water, which dries spot-free without wiping.
Because the cleaner works from the ground, they can reach windows up to around four storeys high safely, and they can clean frames and sills at the same time.
How traditional cleaning works
Traditional window cleaning uses a mop or applicator to wet the glass with water and a little detergent, followed by a squeegee to remove the water and a scrim or microfibre cloth to detail the edges. For upper floors, the cleaner uses ladders. It's fast and gives an excellent finish on glass when done well, and it's still the standard method for internal windows.
Comparing the two
The main trade-offs:
| Water-fed pole | Traditional (squeegee and ladder) | |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Works from the ground – much lower fall risk | Ladder work at height |
| Frames and sills | Cleaned at the same time | Often wiped separately, if at all |
| Finish on glass | Spot-free when done properly; may show drips briefly | Very crisp when done well |
| Wet weather | Can clean in light rain | Harder in rain |
| Access | Reaches over conservatories and extensions | Limited by ladder placement |
| Inside windows | Not suitable | Standard method |
| Very dirty or new-build glass | May need more than one visit | Can scrape off residues |
General comparison of window cleaning methods.
Common concerns about water-fed poles
The most common complaint is drips or spots after cleaning. Usually this comes from water trapped in frames or seals dripping onto the glass after the cleaner has gone, or from a filter system that needs new resin. A good cleaner rinses frames thoroughly and finishes by rinsing the glass from top to bottom. If spots dry on the glass, they're often residue from the frames rather than the water itself.
The first clean with a water-fed pole on very dirty windows can look patchy as years of residue are removed – it usually looks much better by the second visit. Glass with silicone, cement splashes or labels needs manual cleaning first.
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When each method is best
Many window cleaners use both, depending on the job:
- Regular exterior cleaning of houses: water-fed pole is now the norm
- Upper floors, conservatories and windows over extensions: water-fed pole
- Internal windows, glass doors and mirrors: traditional
- Shopfronts at street level: either – many cleaners use traditional for a crisp finish
- Very dirty, new-build or post-construction glass: traditional with scrapers, then water-fed pole for maintenance
- Fascias, soffits and gutters' exteriors: water-fed pole
Cost
Prices are usually similar for regular domestic cleaning. Water-fed pole cleaning can be slightly quicker and allows the cleaner to include frames at little extra cost. Indicative prices for a semi-detached house are on our window cleaning page and cleaning prices guide. For how frequently to book, see how often windows should be cleaned.
What to ask your window cleaner
Whichever method a window cleaner uses, a few questions help you judge the service. Ask how they purify their water and how often they change the resin, whether they clean frames and sills as standard, how they handle drips, and whether they're insured. For older windows, ask how they'll protect timber frames and seals.
It's also worth asking how they'll reach awkward areas – rear windows over extensions, conservatory roofs and windows above porches – and whether internal cleaning is available. A good window cleaner will happily explain their method and adapt it to your house.
