How long does it take to clean one window?

With traditional squeegee methods, a standard window takes 1.5-4 minutes depending on access difficulty. Water-fed pole cleaning is typically faster at 1-3 minutes per window. These times include wetting, cleaning and detailing. Frames and sills add 30-50 seconds per window if included.

How many windows can a window cleaner do per hour?

An experienced cleaner using traditional methods averages 20-30 easy-access windows per hour, or 15-20 moderate-access windows. With a water-fed pole, the rate is 25-40 windows per hour for easy access. These rates vary with window size, soil level and access conditions.

Should I include frames and sills in my time estimate?

Yes, if the customer expects frames and sills to be cleaned (most do). Frames add about 30 seconds per window and sills about 20 seconds. Make sure to specify what is included in your quote to avoid misunderstandings. Some cleaners charge extra for frame and sill cleaning.

How do I account for setup and pack-up time?

Allow 10-15 minutes for setup (unloading equipment, preparing solution, positioning ladders) and 5-10 minutes for pack-up. Water-fed pole systems typically need slightly more setup time for connecting hoses and filling the system. Factor this into your job time and pricing.

CleanCalcs

Window Cleaning Time Calculator

Estimate total time to clean windows for a property by count and difficulty.

Number of Windows

Cleaning Method

Access Difficulty

Include frame cleaning

Adds ~30 seconds per window

Include sill cleaning

Adds ~20 seconds per window

Hourly Rate (optional)

For generating a quote price

How We Calculate This

How the calculation works

Time is estimated from the number of windows, cleaning method and access difficulty, plus optional frame and sill cleaning.

Minutes per window

Traditional: 1.5 (easy) / 2.5 (moderate) / 4 (difficult)
Water-fed pole: 1 / 2 / 3
Spray and wipe: 2 / 3 / 5

Additional time

Frames: +0.5 mins/window. Sills: +0.3 mins/window.

Setup time: 10-15 minutes.

Total = cleaning time + frame time + sill time + setup

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Window Cleaning Solution Calculator

Calculate the correct mix ratio of water and cleaning solution for window cleaning.

Squeegee Size Calculator

Determine the optimal squeegee blade width for different window sizes.

Glass Area Calculator

Calculate total glass area from window dimensions and quantities.

Window Count Estimator

Estimate total window count for a property by building type and size.

Water Fed Pole Calculator

Calculate water usage and flow rate for water-fed pole window cleaning.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities and timings for your specific situation.