The present invention relates to a process for preparing at least one alkoxylate, which comprises bringing at least one alkylene oxide selected from the group consisting of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, pentylene oxide and decene oxide into contact with at least one starter compound in the presence of at least one double metal cyanide compound, with the reaction being carried out at a temperature of from 130.degree. C. to 155.degree. C., to the alkoxylates, in particular ethoxylates, themselves and to the use of such ethoxylates as emulsifier, foam regulator or as wetting agents for hard surfaces.