Windows have been an essential feature of buildings for centuries, allowing natural light to flow into rooms and providing ventilation. However, keeping them clean has been challenging for as long as they have existed. As a result, people have developed various methods from early civilizations to modern times to keep windows clean and clear. In this blog, we will briefly examine the history of window cleaning.

Early Civilizations

In ancient civilizations, animal hides we used to produce windows, parchment, or thinly sliced marble. Cleaning these windows was relatively easy as they were small and did not have glass panes. Instead, people used a cloth or sponge was the preferred method to wipe away dirt and dust.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, glass became a popular material for windows. However, it was expensive and fragile, so only wealthy households and churches could afford it. In addition, cleaning these windows was a challenge as the glass panes were often small and held in place by lead cames. To clean them, people would use a mixture of water, vinegar, or ammonia and then scrub them with a brush.

Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution brought many changes, including developing more significant buildings with expansive windows. This expansion led to the invention of the squeegee in the early 19th century. The squeegee was a simple tool made of a wooden handle and a rubber blade that could remove water and dirt from large surfaces. It revolutionized the window cleaning industry, allowing workers to clean windows faster and more efficiently.

Modern Times

The 20th century saw significant advancements in window cleaning technology. In the 1930s, the invention of the first water-fed pole system allowed window cleaners to reach higher windows without ladders or scaffolding. In the 1950s, the development of the first high-rise window cleaning rig enabled workers to clean windows on skyscrapers safely.

Today, window cleaning has become a highly specialized industry, with many professional companies offering various services, including high-rise window cleaning, pressure washing, and gutter cleaning. Advanced technology, such as drones, has also made it possible to clean windows on tall buildings without putting workers at risk.

In conclusion, the history of window cleaning reflects the evolution of human civilization and technology. From simple animal hides to sophisticated cleaning equipment, window cleaning has come a long way. As buildings become taller and more complex, the need for efficient and safe window cleaning methods will only increase, driving further innovation in the industry.