This article was co-authored by Ben Barlow and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman. Ben Barlow is a Window Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of Barlow Window Bros based in Provo, Utah. Ben specializes in window and gutter cleaning, power washing, and Christmas light installation. He studied at Brigham Young University.
There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
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No one wants to breathe in a lungful of nasty chemicals while they’re cleaning their windows and mirrors. Thankfully, there are tons of quick, easy ways to make your own glass cleaner with ingredients you probably have lying around your home. No need to worry—in a matter of minutes, you’ll be ready to tackle any streaky or grimy glass surface in your home, from your windows and mirrors to your glass tabletops and car windshields.
Ingredients
- 2 c (470 mL) of water
- 1⁄4 c (59 mL) of white vinegar
- 1⁄2 tsp (2.5 mL) of liquid dish soap
- 10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)
- 2 c (470 mL) of water
- 2 US tbsp (30 mL) of white vinegar
- 2 US tbsp (30 mL) of rubbing alcohol
- 5 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 2 c (470 mL) of warm water
- 1⁄4 c (59 mL) of rubbing alcohol
- 1⁄4 c (59 mL) of white vinegar
- 1 tbsp (7.5 g) of cornstarch
- 3 c (710 mL) of water
- 1 c (240 mL) of white vinegar
- 1 US qt (0.95 L) of water
- 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of lemon juice
- 2 c (470 mL) of hot, distilled water
- 3-4 drops of liquid dish soap
- 1 US qt (0.95 L) of rubbing alcohol
- 1⁄4 c (59 mL) of white vinegar
- 3-4 drops of liquid dish soap
Meant specifically for cars
Steps
Community Q&A
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QuestionWill using the alcohol and vinegar mixture remove a window tint?wikiHow Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerwikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerNo, it shouldn't! Both alcohol and vinegar are really effective ingredients for glass cleaners, and should leave your windows and mirrors looking in tip-top shape. -
QuestionWhat kind of window cleaner should I use to remove a residue left by the protective film on my window?wikiHow Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerwikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerTry using the vinegar, rubbing alcohol, and cornstarch mixture! The cornstarch can help clear through the film residue on your window. -
QuestionWhat are the exact measurements of the components of glass cleaner to mix together?Community AnswerFor most of them it tells you the measurements right beside the components.
Things You’ll Need
- Empty spray bottle
- Empty bucket
- Microfiber or lint-free cloth
- Newspaper (optional)
References
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/homemade-window-cleaner/
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/homemade-window-cleaner/
- ↑ https://aromessential.com/essential-oil-safe-storage/
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/homemade-window-cleaner/
- ↑ Ben Barlow. Window Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview. 23 July 2021.
- ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/green-living/natural-cleaning-recipes
- ↑ https://aromessential.com/essential-oil-safe-storage/
- ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/diy-glass-cleaner-alvin-corn-258660
- ↑ https://www.food.com/recipe/cheap-and-easy-homemade-window-cleaner-82410
- ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-a-window-36753648
- ↑ https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fy1449
- ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/cleaning-products-tools/best-homemade-window-cleaner/
- ↑ https://www.oregonmetro.gov/tools-living/healthy-home/green-cleaning/windshield-wiper-fluid
- ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/homemade-window-cleaner/
- ↑ https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/cleaning-products-tools/best-homemade-window-cleaner/
About This Article
If you want to avoid harsh chemicals and save some money, make your own glass cleaner. Mix 1 cup of vinegar and ½ teaspoon dish soap with 1 gallon of warm water. Pour your mixture into a spray bottle and use it like you would any commercial glass cleaner. Another way to make glass cleaner is to soak citrus peels in vinegar for a few weeks. Then, strain the citrus mixture and pour it into a bottle. Mix in 1 cup of water and use it to clean your glass products. You can also try pouring club soda into a spray bottle and using it as a glass cleaner. To learn how to make glass cleaner out of rubbing alcohol, keep reading!