Why preparation matters
A window cleaning crew that shows up to a fully prepped home gets the work done in less time, which usually means a lower bill. It also means a better result — the crew spends time on the windows instead of moving furniture and rugs.
Here is the 5-minute prep that makes the biggest difference.
Inside the home
Move what you can
- Pull curtains, blinds, and sheers away from the windows. Hanging fabric gets in the way and can get damp.
- Move small furniture, lamps, and decor at least 3 feet from each window.
- Roll up area rugs directly under the windows. The crew will set down drop cloths, but a clear floor is faster and safer.
Clear the sills
Remove anything sitting on the window sill — plants, photos, candles, electronics. The crew will detail the sills and tracks as part of the cleaning.
Lock away pets
Dogs and cats are curious about ladders, squeegees, and unfamiliar people. A quick crate or closed-door keeps everyone safe and lets the crew work without watching for a tail.
Note any trouble spots
If you have a window that has not been cleaned in years, a hard-water spot you have been meaning to address, or a screen that needs extra attention, point it out when the crew arrives. It is faster to address on the first visit than to schedule a return.
Outside the home
Move vehicles out of the driveway
The crew will need to access the windows from the outside, often with ladders and extension poles. Park in the street for the day.
Unlock side gates
If the crew needs to reach windows on the side or back of the house, leave side gates unlocked. If you cannot, mention this when you book — some windows may not be reachable from the front.
Trim back landscaping if needed
Hedges, vines, and tree branches right against a window are slow to clean around. A quick trim before the visit saves time. If you cannot do it yourself, the crew will work around it — just expect extra time on those windows.
Identify fragile items outside
Garden statuary, ceramic pots, delicate light fixtures, and outdoor furniture are all things the crew will work around. Point them out, or move them out of the way the night before.
What the crew handles
A good window cleaning service includes:
- Interior and exterior glass
- Frames, sills, and tracks
- Screens (cleaned, not just rinsed)
- Spot treatment for hard-water deposits where possible
- A quick walk-through at the end
You should not need to do anything else. If the crew asks you to clean anything before they arrive, that is a sign they are not doing their job.
How long the visit takes
For a typical LA home:
- Apartment / small home (15–20 windows): 1.5–2.5 hours
- Average home (25–35 windows): 2.5–4 hours
- Larger or multi-story home: 4–6+ hours
Most of the time is spent on the exterior, which is where the real grime lives.
What to expect when the crew leaves
- Windows should be dry to the touch, with no streaks
- Sills and tracks should be wiped clean, not muddy
- Screens should be back in place
- Any drop cloths should be picked up
If anything is not right, most crews will come back within 24–48 hours to fix it at no charge. Ask about their satisfaction guarantee when you book.
Ready to book?
Call (310) 526-3974 to schedule a window cleaning. We service Los Angeles and the surrounding communities, and most homes we can price over the phone in under 5 minutes.
*Book a cleaning and we will walk you through any specific prep for your home.*