How does WCR compare to Detroit Sponge?
From Detroit Sponge's decades-old legacy to WCR’s modern online hub for window cleaning pros, both companies have shaped how window cleaners get their gear. Here’s how they stack up against each other.
WCR vs Detroit Sponge
| Features | WCR | Detroit Sponge |
|---|---|---|
| Shipping | ||
| Free Shipping |
Starts at $49
|
Starts at $149
|
| Same Day Shipping |
Yes - by 5 PM EST
|
Unclear
|
| International Shipping |
Yes
|
No
|
| Local Pickup |
Yes
|
Yes
|
| Ships From |
New York
|
Michigan
|
| Customer Service | ||
| Livechat Available |
Yes
|
No
|
| Phone Support |
24/7
|
M-F 9 AM - 5 PM EST
|
| Experts on Hand |
Yes
|
Not Specified
|
| Return Policy |
90 Days
|
30 Days
|
| Pricing & Perks | ||
| Low Prices Guaranteed |
Yes
|
No
|
| Free Gift Program |
Yes
|
No
|
| Minimum Order Amount |
None
|
None
|
| Customer Feedback & Community | ||
| Google Reviews |
5.0 Rating - Over 8,000 Reviews
|
4.9 Rating - Under 300 Reviews
|
| Facebook Reviews |
100% Recommended - Over 600 Reviews
|
92% Recommended - Under 100 Reviews
|
| Official Facebook Group |
37.8K + Members
|
None
|
| About & Initiatives | ||
| Awards & Recognition |
2025 Inc 5000 - Fastest Growing Company
|
N/A
|
| Charity Arm / Fund |
Yes - Window Cleaner Relief Fund
|
No
|
| Affiliate Program |
Yes
|
No
|
| Year Founded |
2007
|
1938
|
A Brief History on Detroit Sponge
From Sea Sponges to Squeegees
Did you know the history of Detroit Sponge and Chamois actually started all the way in Greece? Nick Cuscutis was a diver in his younger days, harvesting natural sea sponges from the Mediterranean, eventually bringing his product to America. Like many Greek families, he passed on his knowledge to his son, Mitch, who, in 1938, started his business in Detroit, Michigan.
Years later, Mitch's nephew Mike began to work for him through high school and college. Eventually, Mitch asked Mike to take over the business which Mike enthusiastically agreed to. In 1996, Mike took ownership while Mitch continued to offer his expertise to the business. He had an amazing ability to identify where in the world a sponge came from by just picking it up. He could tell you about hole patterns, absoption rates, and what task each sponge would excel at.
Detroit Sponge didn't just carry sponges, they also offered other window cleaning supplies, like they still do today. They had a space in their showroom dedicated to product demonstrations allowing customers to try out different pieces of equipment and offering tips on how to use them. Even way back in 1997 they already had a website and were starting to offer their inventory online.
Throughout their long history, Detroit Sponge and Chamois has been able to watch the evolution of window cleaning supplies to the specialized tools they are today. Detroit Sponge carries major window cleaning brands and offers products for everything from traditional gear to high-rise access and pure-water systems. Their mission has always remained the same though, provide window cleaners with quality gear and honest expertise.
Vintage Ad from the AWC Magazine Issue 47 - 1994
Detroit Sponge Through the Years
Detroit Sponge & Chamois Co. has served the professional window cleaning market for over 80 years. Founded in 1938 in Detroit, Michigan, this family-owned business is led by third-generation owner Michael Waroway since 1996. It evolved from a local supplier of sea sponges and chamois into a nationwide online distributor of window cleaning supplies. Their start as a local supplier allowed the business to have a hands-on connection with customers. As Detroit Sponge expanded, they took their business online so that they could serve even more customers across the US.
While their roots remain in naturally harvested sea sponges, their catalog has grown. Today, Detroit Sponge aims to be a one-stop shop for window cleaning professionals. They offer everything from squeegees, scraper, soaps, poles, high-rise equipment, pure-water systems, and more for residential and commerical cleaners. This brand is built on legacy, expertise, and trust.
This B2B supplier has successfully adapted over decades of change from a local storefront, to a nationwide e-commerce store, all while maintaining their mission, to provide quality equipment, information, and service.
From the AWC Magazine Issue 63 - 1997
What makes Detroit Sponge stand out?
They still purchase natural sponges directly from fisherman and hand-process and trim them in house just as they have since 1938. Their longevity is rooted in quality, service, and consistency. Beyond just their product offerings, they also have educational content in their blog with how-tos and insights to help window cleaners choose the right tools and business strategies to grow.
VINTAGE AD FROM THE AWC MAGAZINE ISSUE 22 - 1990