How often should you get your windows cleaned?
How often to book a window cleaner, what affects it, and what window cleaning typically costs in London in 2026.
There is no single rule, but most homes in towns and cities suit a regular external clean every four to eight weeks, while quieter suburban and rural homes can often go longer. Shops and offices usually want their front glass cleaned more often.
What affects how often you need a clean?
- Traffic and pollution — homes on main roads or near building sites get dirty faster
- Trees and birds — sap, pollen and droppings build up quickly in spring and summer
- Weather — windows facing prevailing wind and rain pick up more grime
- Coastal air — salt spray leaves a film on glass
- Selling or letting — a one-off clean before viewings or a new tenancy makes a visible difference
- Businesses — shopfronts are seen by every customer, so many are cleaned weekly or fortnightly
Typical window-cleaning prices in London (2026)
| Property | Typical London price per visit (external) |
|---|---|
| Flat or terraced house | £20–£35 |
| 2-bedroom house | £30–£45 |
| 3-bedroom semi | £35–£50 |
| 4+ bedroom or detached | £40–£70 |
| Conservatory or skylights (add-on) | £15–£50 |
Outside London and the South East, the same property typically costs less — published guides put most UK homes at around £12–£55 per visit.
Regular rounds vs one-off cleans
Window cleaners can plan a regular round more efficiently, so they usually charge less per visit. One published 2026 guide puts a three-bedroom semi at around £25–£38 on a four-weekly round, £28–£42 every eight weeks and £35–£55 for a one-off clean, with the first clean after a long gap costing more because of the build-up of dirt.
What is usually included?
A standard clean normally covers the outside of the glass, and often the frames and sills. Inside windows, conservatory roofs, skylights and gutter clearing are usually extras, and not every window cleaner offers them — so ask what is included before your first clean. Many window cleaners use water-fed poles to clean upper-floor windows from the ground; if yours will be working at height, ask how they will do it safely.
Sources: prices compiled from published 2026 UK price guides by Fantastic Services and MyBuilder (updated August 2026). Your own price will depend on the property and the window cleaner.
Frequently asked questions
How often should windows be cleaned in London?
Most London homes suit a regular external clean every four to eight weeks because of traffic grime and pollution. Homes on quieter streets can often go longer.
Is it cheaper to have windows cleaned regularly?
Usually, yes. Window cleaners can plan regular rounds more efficiently, so the price per visit is normally lower than for a one-off clean.
How often should a shopfront be cleaned?
Many shops and cafés have their front glass cleaned weekly or fortnightly, because it is the first thing customers see.
Do I need to be at home for my windows to be cleaned?
Not usually for external cleaning, as long as the window cleaner can get to the windows safely, for example through a side gate. Agree access and payment arrangements in advance.
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