Can we use squeegees on the outside of windows?

[BalmyZephyr]

We're taking the Cardinal this week for the first time, solely for the epic view (and train feeling of course). I've read here that the Cardinal windows can be very dirty, and have seen that problem on many trains, understandably. On the Empire Builder we saw a guy who did not appear to be an Amtrak employee squeegeeing the outside of some SSL windows and people cheered. I really think he was just a guy who brought his own squeegee. Should we bring one or will we be hollered at or jailed?

 

[jis]

I have done so in the past, even with the consultation, consent and help of the CA. But as with everything Amtrak, YMMV.

 

[BalmyZephyr]

I have done so in the past, even with the consultation, consent and help of the CA. But as with everything Amtrak, YMMV.

Thanks! I guess we should ask first, might need to use their stool to reach anyway.

 

[TrackWalker]

Be sure to post photos of the event here.

 

[TinCan782]

On the Crescent (NYP>NOL) during the Washington, DC stop, I used a washcloth from our bedroom to clean our window!

 

[BalmyZephyr]

On the Crescent (NYP>NOL) during the Washington, DC stop, I used a washcloth from our bedroom to clean our window!

View attachment 25716

Ack, hope that wasn't the inside!

 

[TinCan782]

Ack, hope that wasn't the inside!

Outside

 

[Maglev]

I bring along my own rags to clean my lower-level Superliner windows. The dirt is very greasy, and will ruin an Amtrak washcloth.

For the Cardinal, you would need either a high-level platform (at a stop where there is time to get off) or a long pole to clean your windows.

 

[87YJ]

Wonder why no one has started a window cleaning service to clean your rooms windows. Guess Amtrak would need a cut.

 

[mcropod]

(snip)

For the Cardinal, you would need either a high-level platform (at a stop where there is time to get off) or a long pole to clean your windows.

I can't imagine that Bayern Munich would allow Robert Lewandowski the time off, though.

 

[Dutchrailnut]

bring long stick for squeezy , them windows are higher than you think.

 

[piedpiper]

I purchased these two items for cleaning even the upper level of superliners - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07812V46F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and Amazon.com: Additional Extension Pole Sections for Modern Domus Neverending Reach Squeegee Window Cleaner Kit | Set of 2 : Everything Else - very easy to pack and use from the platforms

 

[piedpiper]

picture follows

 

[basketmaker]

Amtrak crews usually squeegee the windows while at DEN at least for the westbound #5 CZ. Scenery is too beautiful to miss. I have also seen them clean the windows on SWC #3 at ABQ but only once.

 

[DGHoosee]

On the Crescent (NYP>NOL) during the Washington, DC stop, I used a washcloth from our bedroom to clean our window!

View attachment 25716

Classic! Love it. as always, everything has a cost attached to it, but at the very least… If Amtrak could have someone washing their windows at a station, or have a train wash done at the beginning of each journey, it sure would make for a better experience… Especially in the observation car!

Pipe dreams, I know…But it doesn’t hurt to wish

 

[jis]

Classic! Love it. as always, everything has a cost attached to it, but at the very least… If Amtrak could have someone washing their windows at a station, or have a train wash done at the beginning of each journey, it sure would make for a better experience… Especially in the observation car!

Pipe dreams, I know…But it doesn’t hurt to wish

It would be even better if they could ensure that trains do not start from their originating station with filthy windows, that would be nice too.

 

[lrh442]

I purchased these two items for cleaning even the upper level of superliners - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07812V46F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and Amazon.com: Additional Extension Pole Sections for Modern Domus Neverending Reach Squeegee Window Cleaner Kit | Set of 2 : Everything Else - very easy to pack and use from the platforms

Any chance you could post a picture of what this kit looks like disassembled?

 

[TheVig]

Things just wouldn’t be Amtrak if you didn’t have to clean your own windows or repair your own room, etc.

 

[Asher]

I would think some may think they are cleaning the windows, instead they may be removing some residue and at the same time doing damage that is not fixable.

 

[caravanman]

You can just use scrunched up damp newspaper or damp paper hand towels to clean the widows on the platform side. Beware of waving poles of any description around near overhead high voltage cables!!!
You can add a tiny amount of liquid soap to help cut through the grease from the engine fumes.
Given that scenery is one big attraction for riding the trains, it is very short sighted of Amtrak to neglect the window cleaning... (no pun intended.)

 

[me_little_me]

Outside

That's what my washcloth looked like BEFORE I cleaned any windows!

 

[Danib62]

I can't believe this is a serious thread. Will LMAO when one of you clowns gets booted from your train for this.

 

[lrh442]

I can't believe this is a serious thread. Will LMAO when one of you clowns gets booted from your train for this.

What is your basis for thinking that this common practice has, or ever will, get someone booted off a train (or is this just an uninformed hot-take)?

 

[Danib62]

It’s common practice to BYO squeegee on Amtrak? Lol ok. I’ve taken hundreds of trips and have never seen this happen.

 

[piedpiper]

Any chance you could post a picture of what this kit looks like disassembled?

I only use one squeegee with the towel assembly attached and the 5 poles are tied together with an elastic band - so it easily fits into my carry-on bag - sorry no picture