Homemade Window Cleaner – Easy DIY Mix for Spotless Glass

Cleaning windows can feel like a never‑ending chore, especially when streaks show up right after you’re done. The good news? You don’t need pricey commercial sprays. With a few kitchen staples you can whip up a cleaner that works just as well, saves money, and keeps chemicals away from your home.

Why Make Your Own Cleaner?

Store‑bought window sprays often contain alcohol, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals that can irritate skin and damage window frames. A homemade blend lets you control every ingredient, cut down on waste, and use what you already have in the pantry. Plus, the scent is neutral – no more overpowering chemical smell lingering in the house.

Step‑by‑Step Recipe & Application

Here’s the simplest recipe that gives you a streak‑free shine:

• 2 cups (480 ml) distilled water – distilled water prevents mineral spots.
• ½ cup (120 ml) white vinegar – cuts grease and lifts grime.
• ¼ cup (60 ml) rubbing alcohol (70 % is fine) – helps the solution dry fast.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) dish soap (a mild brand like Dawn works).
• Optional: a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.

Mix everything in a spray bottle, shake gently, and you’re ready to go. For best results, spray the solution onto the glass and let it sit for 10‑15 seconds. This gives the vinegar time to break down any film.

Use a clean, lint‑free microfiber cloth – it grabs dust without leaving fibers behind. Wipe in an “S” pattern: start at the top left, pull the cloth down, then move across and repeat. Finish with a dry corner of the cloth to buff away any remaining droplets. The result? Clear, crystal‑like windows without the annoying streaks.

If you’re dealing with exterior windows that have stubborn bird droppings or sap, spray the solution, let it work for a minute, then scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse with a hose or a bucket of clean water and dry with a fresh cloth.

For high‑rise windows or hard‑to‑reach spots, a telescoping squeegee works wonders. Apply the cleaner, run the squeegee from top to bottom, and wipe the blade with a dry cloth after each pass. This method reduces the amount of cloth you need and speeds up the job.

What about windows with tinted film? The same mixture is safe, but skip the alcohol to avoid weakening the tint. Stick with water, vinegar, and a splash of dish soap – you’ll still get a streak‑free finish.

Storing the solution is easy. Keep the bottle in a cool, dark place and shake before each use. The blend stays effective for up to a month; after that, a fresh batch ensures peak performance.

With this homemade window cleaner you’ll save money, avoid harsh chemicals, and get results that rival any professional service. Try it out on one small pane first, and you’ll see how quickly the shine returns. Your windows will thank you, and so will your wallet.