How to Make Homemade Window Cleaner: 3 Simple Recipes

3 Simple Recipes to Make Homemade Window Cleaner

Here are three recipes for making homemade window cleaner using common household ingredients.

Recipe 1: Vinegar and Water Window Cleaner

Credit: Pinterest/@greydock

The vinegar and water window cleaner is a time-tested solution knowing for its remarkable effectiveness and eco-friendliness. White vinegar is a natural acid that excels at cutting through grease, grime, and mineral deposits. This makes it ideal for windows that frequently collect fingerprints, dust, and smudges, providing a clear, polished finish.

Ingredients

• • • • 1 cup of white vinegar
      • 1 cup of water

Instructions

To prepare this simple yet effective window cleaner, start by selecting a clean, empty spray bottle. Carefully pour one cup of white vinegar into the bottle, followed by one cup of water.

If you’re concerned about spills, using a funnel can facilitate a mess-free transfer. It’s essential to label the bottle clearly to avoid any mix-ups with other cleaning solutions, ensuring you always know which cleaner to use.

How to Use

After combining the vinegar and water, gently shake the bottle to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. When you’re ready to clean, spray the solution generously onto the window surface. For optimal results, use a lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, or even old newspapers, as these materials effectively prevent streaks.

Wipe the window in a circular motion to evenly distribute the cleaner. This technique helps lift dirt and grime away from the surface while ensuring an even application. After the initial cleaning, finish with vertical or horizontal strokes for a streak-free finish.

Benefits

This vinegar and water window cleaner is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly, making it a smart choice for those who want to maintain a clean home without harsh chemicals. It’s particularly effective for indoor windows, glass doors, and mirrors, providing a clear and polished appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of your living space.

Recipe 2: Rubbing Alcohol Window Cleaner

Credit: Pinterest/@diggshouse2

The rubbing alcohol window cleaner formula is particularly effective for windows that have stubborn residues, such as those with hard water stains or built-up grime. The quick evaporation of rubbing alcohol helps to prevent streaks and provides a thorough clean, making it ideal for regular maintenance.

Ingredients

• • • • 1 cup of rubbing alcohol
      • 2 cups of water
      • Optional: a few drops of dish soap

Instructions

To create this powerful window cleaner, begin by selecting a clean spray bottle. In the bottle, combine one cup of rubbing alcohol with two cups of water.

For an added cleaning boost, you may include a few drops of dish soap. This addition can help emulsify and lift more challenging dirt and grime from glass surfaces. After adding the ingredients, shake the bottle gently to mix the contents without creating excessive bubbles.

How to Use

When you’re ready to clean, spray the solution generously onto the window. Allow it to sit for a few seconds to penetrate any stubborn spots, particularly if you’re dealing with hard water stains or built-up residue. Using a clean cloth or paper towel, wipe the window using a back-and-forth motion, followed by a vertical or horizontal wipe to ensure a streak-free finish.

For best results, avoid cleaning windows in direct sunlight, as this can cause the solution to dry too quickly and leave streaks behind. The rubbing alcohol evaporates rapidly, which means that any leftover moisture will dry quickly, leaving behind a crystal-clear surface.

Benefits

This rubbing alcohol window cleaner is highly effective on glass surfaces, including mirrors, glass tabletops, and car windows, due to its ability to dissolve grime and evaporate quickly. Incorporating this cleaner into your routine will keep your windows sparkling clean and clear, enhancing the overall appearance of your home. Regular use of this cleaner can significantly improve visibility and the overall aesthetic of your living spaces.

Related: The 7 Best De-Icer Sprays of 2024

Recipe 3: Dish Soap and Water Window Cleaner

Credit: Pinterest/@cameoroze

The dish soap and water cleaner is a gentle yet effective solution, making it suitable for everyday cleaning, especially on windows that accumulate dirt over time but are not heavily soiled. This recipe is simple to make and uses ingredients readily found in most households, making it a convenient option for maintaining your windows.

Ingredients

• • • • A few drops of liquid dish soap
      • 1 quart of warm water

Instructions

To prepare this effective dish soap window cleaner, start by selecting a clean spray bottle or a bucket, depending on your preference. Combine a few drops of liquid dish soap with one quart of warm water.

It’s crucial to use only a small amount of soap to prevent excessive suds, which can make the cleaning process more cumbersome and difficult. Stir gently to mix the soap with the water, creating a soapy solution.

How to Use

Once the solution is mixed, you can either spray it directly onto the window or dip a clean microfiber cloth into the soapy mixture and apply it to the glass. If you’re using a sponge, ensure that it is clean to avoid scratching the glass surface.

Pay particular attention to corners and edges where dirt tends to accumulate, as these areas often require a bit more scrubbing to lift the grime effectively.

After scrubbing the window, you can use a squeegee to remove excess liquid. Start from the top of the window and pull down in a straight line, wiping the squeegee blade with a cloth after each pass to avoid redistributing dirt. This technique will ensure that your windows are left streak-free and crystal clear.

Benefits

The dish soap and water window cleaner is particularly useful for regular maintenance, as it effectively lifts dirt and grime without leaving any residue behind. This cleaner is ideal for indoor and outdoor use, providing a thorough clean for all glass surfaces, including shower doors and glass patio furniture.

Related: The 7 Best Dishwashers of 2024