Ettore

Overview

Ettore Products Company manufactures cleaning tools, primarily window cleaning tools such as squeegees, dusters, microfiber products, floor finish applicators, and extension poles.¹²³ Founded in 1936, it is recognized for inventing the modern T-shaped squeegee with a brass handle and precision rubber blade, setting an industry standard for streak-free window cleaning.²³ The family-owned business supplies both professional window cleaners and homeowners worldwide.²³

History

Ettore Products Company was founded in 1936 by Ettore Steccone, an Italian immigrant who invented the modern squeegee after becoming a window cleaner in Oakland, California.²³ Steccone secured his first major order through a wager with J. Racenstein Company in New York, leading to a long-term partnership that continues today.²⁵ He manufactured from his garage until the early 1950s, expanding to a factory despite challenges like patent loss and material shortages during world conflicts.² The company remains independently owned and operated by Steccone's family.²³ Ettore Steccone died in 1984 at age 87.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured by Ettore Products Company, with historical production starting in the founder's garage in Oakland, California, and moving to a dedicated factory in the early 1950s.² The precision-engineered squeegee rubber is hand-inspected to the founder's specifications.³ Specific current manufacturing locations beyond the US headquarters are not detailed in available sources.

Notable Products

• Ettore Master Squeegee - Brass-handled T-shaped squeegee with precision rubber blade for streak-free window cleaning.
• Golden Finger Squeegee - Replacement rubber insert designed for Ettore squeegees, maintaining original performance standards.
• Extension Poles - Adjustable poles for reaching high windows and surfaces.
• Microfiber Cloths - Reusable cloths for lint-free cleaning of glass and surfaces.
• Dusters - Tools for removing dust from windows and frames.

Reputation

Ettore is regarded by professionals as the standard for window cleaning tools due to its invention of the modern squeegee and consistent quality since 1936.¹³ Family ownership and hand-inspected rubber production contribute to its heritage appeal among window cleaners.²³ Limited public reviews are available, with no major criticisms noted in sources.⁷