We’ve all looked up at that grimy upstairs window or skylight and thought: “How do I clean windows I can’t reach?” Whether it’s a second-storey bedroom, a raked ceiling, or an awkward window above a stairwell, unreachable glass can turn into a safety hazard—or just an eyesore.
As someone who’s spent years in the business of Window Cleaning Melbourne properties—everything from ground-floor cafes to high rise window cleaning Melbourne towers—I can tell you this: trying to MacGyver it with a mop taped to a broomstick rarely ends well.
Contents
The Real Problem With Hard-to-Reach Windows
It’s About Safety and Quality
Homeowners and property managers often try to DIY elevated Window Cleaning. Fair enough—you want clean windows without calling in help for what looks like a simple job. But here’s what typically goes wrong:
- Ladders get misused or positioned dangerously
- DIY tools lack control for scrubbing or squeegeeing
- You end up Googling window cleaners near me after spending hours with poor results
Even something as simple as excess water trapped in the frame or left to drip can damage surrounding materials over time, especially in Melbourne’s mix of sun, wind, and downpours.
Safe Solutions for Cleaning High Windows
1. Extendable Squeegee or Water-Fed Pole System
This is where the pros shine. We use telescopic extension poles with squeegee attachments or water-fed pole systems fitted with purified water. The benefits?
- Reach windows up to three storeys without a ladder
- Maintain control for a streak-free finish
- Avoid chemical runoff—great for eco-conscious households
- Clean both the window glass and the window frames
If you’re doing it yourself, look for a window cleaning kit that includes:
- A squeegee blade
- A microfibre washer
- A lightweight, extendable handle (carbon fibre is gold)
- Optional: spray bottles with your preferred window cleaning solution
Make sure you’re working at a safe angle to maintain control and avoid damaging the glass or putting strain on your arms.
If you’re based in Victoria, there are great Melbourne window cleaning suppliers that stock reliable extension tools for DIY setups.
2. Use Warm Soapy Water
Always start with warm water and a few drops of dish soap or a specialised window cleaning solution. Don’t go overboard with chemicals—more isn’t better, it just adds to the streak risk.
- Wash the pane with a microfiber cloth or washer pad
- Rinse with clean water, preferably filtered or deionised, to avoid mineral spots
- Use a quality squeegee with a firm rubber blade for drying
Dry off edges and window sills with a clean cloth to avoid excess moisture, which can cause rot or encourage mildew. That’s a common issue we see in older Window Cleaning Melbourne jobs where timber frames haven’t been sealed properly after repeated wetting.
3. Magnetic Window Cleaners
For certain window types—like sliding glass doors or double-glazed panes—magnetic window cleaners can be a useful hack. These tools have grown popular among people searching for window cleaners near me who want to try one last DIY method before calling a pro.
They’re not perfect, and they don’t suit every job. But for balcony glass or windows that open just slightly, it can be safer than leaning out precariously.
4. Call in the Pros
Here’s the truth: anything above two storeys, or involving awkward angles, should be done by a professional window cleaning team.
At Window Cleaning Melbourne Crew, we use:
- Cherry pickers or boom lifts for high access
- Rope-access techniques for high rise window cleaning Melbourne buildings
- Deionised water-fed poles for a chemical-free, spot-free finish
We also spot safety risks others miss—like loose dirt, decayed seals, or water damage from dirty tracks or clogged window screens.
Practical Tips for DIY High Window Cleaning
Do
- Use extension poles with a firm grip
- Start with soapy water, rinse with clean or hot water
- Wipe frames and window sills to stop water stains
- Choose a calm, overcast day (wind = streaks, sun = quick drying = spots)
Don’t
- Stand on the edge of balconies or stairwells
- Use a ladder without another person present
- Clean when rain is forecast (wasted effort)
- Ignore the window frame—it traps dirt, too
Common Mistakes
Mistake 1: Cleaning with tap water in direct sunlight
Fix: Use distilled or filtered water and aim for shaded times of day.
Mistake 2: Spraying and praying with store-bought cleaner
Fix: Mix your own gentle cleaner (warm water + dish soap), or use a vinegar-water mix for a natural option.
Mistake 3: Ignoring your window screens
Fix: Remove and hose down screens separately to prevent grime transfer.
Mistake 4: Letting excess water drip into wooden frames
Fix: Use a cloth to dry sills and monitor frames for signs of moisture damage or bubbling paint.
When to Get a Pro
If any of these apply, you’re better off calling a pro:
- You’re dealing with double-storey or higher windows
- You’ve got hard-to-reach windows over roofing, pool fencing or stairwells
- You see stubborn dirt, salt spray, or bird droppings that need scrubbing
- You’re prepping for a house sale or inspection
A window cleaning service won’t just give you clean, streak-free windows—it’ll also protect your frames, sills, and home from damage.
Final Word
Unreachable windows are a pain—but with the right window cleaning tools, safe practices, and a bit of technique, they don’t have to stay filthy. If it’s too awkward, don’t gamble with ladders or DIY hacks—get a professional window cleaner to handle it properly.
Need help with window cleaning high windows or a full exterior tidy-up? We offer everything from facade cleaning to balcony cleaning Melbourne-wide, using safe and surface-appropriate methods.
FAQ
Can I use a pressure cleaner on upper windows?
No—Pressure cleaning isn’t ideal for windows. It can crack glass, break seals, or force water into unwanted spots. Use a soft wash or water-fed pole instead.
What’s the best way to clean high-rise windows from inside?
If they tilt inward, great—clean from the inside with warm water and a microfiber cloth. If not, call in pros with rope access or boom lift equipment.
How do I prevent streaks on high windows?
Use filtered or distilled water, squeegee properly, and avoid cleaning in full sun. Always dry the edges and the window frame.
Are magnetic window cleaners safe and effective?
They work well for double-glazed glass or balcony panels—but you need to follow the instructions closely, and they’re not suitable for thick or curved glass.
What’s the safest DIY method for second-storey windows?
A telescopic squeegee with a washer is your best bet. Use soapy water, clean in straight lines, and always stay grounded—no ladders unless you’re trained and spotter-backed.