There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a smudged, fingerprint-covered window into a crystal-clear surface. What most people don’t realize? That simple skill can put $50-$100 in your pocket every hour. While everyone’s obsessed with pressure washing these days, smart hustlers are quietly making bank with nothing more than a squeegee and some microfiber cloths.
This isn’t about starting some fancy commercial operation. It’s about being the person businesses and homeowners call when they’re tired of fighting with Windex and paper towels. The best part? You can literally start today with supplies from your local hardware store.
Why This Works (And Who’s Willing to Pay)
Clean glass is one of those small details that makes everything else look better. Your ideal clients:
- Small business owners (nothing turns off customers like dirty storefront windows)
- Gyms and yoga studios (mirrors get disgusting fast)
- Real estate agents (streaky windows ruin listing photos)
- High-end homeowners (the kind who notice every water spot)
- Restaurants (greasy glass doors are a constant battle)
Real Example:
When Javier cleaned his aunt’s cafe windows as a favor, the bakery next door asked if he could do theirs too. Within a month, he had a route of 12 businesses paying $40-$80 per visit. His secret? Showing owners how much cleaner their spaces looked on Instagram-worthy before/after photos.
The $100 Toolkit That Makes You Look Like a Pro
Skip the consumer-grade stuff. With these affordable tools, you’ll outclean any amateur:
Must-Have Gear:
- Professional squeegee (the Unger ergonomic one is $25 and life-changing)
- Microfiber magic (get the waffle-weave kind for streak-free drying)
- Extension pole (for those hard-to-reach second-story windows)
- Scraper (for removing paint overspray or stubborn gunk)
- Distilled water spray bottle (no mineral streaks)
Pro Techniques:
- Work top-to-bottom to avoid drips
- Use the “fan method” for mirrors (start middle, work outward)
- Cloudy day = best day (sun dries cleaner too fast)
- Keep a small LED flashlight to spot missed streaks
Pricing That Gets You Hired (And Keeps Them Coming Back)
Smart Pricing Strategies:
- “While You Wait” Service: $50 for under 30 minutes (perfect for small shops)
- Monthly Maintenance Plans: $100-$300/month for weekly/bi-weekly visits
- Premium Packages: Add interior glass doors/fixtures for 25% more
Upsell Opportunities:
- “Mystery Spot Removal” (those weird marks near door handles)
- Window track cleaning (nobody does this – charge extra)
- Emergency pre-showing cleans for realtors (same-day = 50% premium)
Real Example:
Sarah charges $75 for a basic salon mirror cleaning but noticed the glass display cases were always filthy. She added a $20 “display dazzle” add-on – now 90% of clients opt for it.
Where to Find Clients Who Need You Now
Low-Effort Marketing That Works:
- “Free Demo” hustle (Clean one window free – they’ll usually hire you for the rest)
- Real estate agent networking (Offer to do pre-listing cleans)
- Gym bulletin boards (Post before/after pics of sweaty mirrors)
- Nextdoor app (Homeowners constantly complain about hard water stains)
Pro Tip:
Carry a small spray bottle and cloth in your car. When you see a business with dirty windows, do a quick demo pane – instant sales pitch.
The Hidden Perks Nobody Talks About
- Zen-like work (There’s something meditative about perfecting each pane)
- Minimal customer interaction (Most leave you to work in peace)
- First access to opportunities (You’ll overhear about other maintenance needs)
- Tips for “impossible” jobs (That chandelier no one can clean? Charge triple)
Final Thought:
This isn’t about being the cheapest – it’s about being the best. Show up with the right tools, leave every surface flawless, and word will spread fast. Before long, you’ll have more clients than you can handle every time the seasons change.