We started using a homemade window cleaner last year and immediately wished we’d switched sooner. It’s not only far cheaper than store-bought brands like Windex, it also cleans better and leaves virtually no streaks. The basic recipe uses only two ingredients, and you can customize it with a few optional additions. Grab an empty spray bottle and try it—you’ll see the difference.
Homemade cleaners help you maintain a more eco-friendly home and reduce the number of harsh chemicals in your living spaces. Even if sustainability isn’t your main concern, it’s hard to argue with superior results at a fraction of the cost.
Ingredients & Supplies
The simplest recipe uses just two ingredients: water and isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Below are common optional ingredients that let you tailor the cleaner for scent, extra grease-cutting, or mild abrasion. Specific measurements and combinations follow in the mixing section.
- Empty spray bottle (glass or plastic)
- Water or distilled water
- 70% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
- White vinegar (optional)
- Mild dish soap (optional)
- Essential oils (optional)
- Cornstarch (optional)
- Funnel and measuring cups
Most of these items are inexpensive. For reference, a small investment in supplies will yield far more cleaner than a single commercial bottle, so you’ll save money over time.
Can I Reuse A Spray Bottle?
You might be tempted to reuse an old spray bottle, but residual chemicals left in the plastic can react badly with new ingredients. For example, bleach and vinegar should never be mixed because they can release toxic chlorine gas. To avoid risk, use a clean, new bottle or thoroughly wash and rinse any reused bottle with soap and water before filling it with your homemade cleaner. Consider labeling the bottle clearly as “Glass Cleaner.”
Why These Ingredients Work
Commercial window cleaners often include scents, dyes, and strong chemicals like ammonia, which some people find irritating. A DIY glass cleaner uses only the ingredients necessary to remove dirt and leave a streak-free finish.
- Distilled water lacks the mineral deposits found in hard tap water, so it prevents spotting and helps other ingredients work more effectively.
- Rubbing alcohol is a fast-evaporating solvent and disinfectant; it dissolves grime and reduces streaking as it dries.
- White vinegar contains acetic acid that helps dissolve mineral buildup and light grime without harming glass.
- Dish soap cuts grease and oily residues; a tiny amount boosts cleaning power for very dirty windows.
- Essential oils add a pleasant scent—use sparingly (about five drops) because too much oil can leave streaks or residue.
- Cornstarch acts as a mild abrasive to lift stubborn dirt, especially on exterior windows; if used, rinse thoroughly to prevent residue.
How To Mix Your Homemade Window Cleaner
There isn’t a single “perfect” formula—test a few proportions to find the balance of cleaning power and scent you prefer. Precise measuring isn’t critical for most mixes; a good eye and a shake will do.
- Alcohol-based (fast-drying, streak-free): 1 cup water + 1 cup rubbing alcohol
- Vinegar-based (great for mineral deposits): 2 cups water + 1/4 cup white vinegar
- Lighter odor, lighter duty: 2 cups water + 1/4 cup isopropyl alcohol + 1/4 cup white vinegar
- Grease-cutting boost: Add 1/2 teaspoon (or 5–10 drops) of mild dish soap to any of the above
- Fragrance boost: Add up to 5 drops of essential oil to any formula
- Scrub boost: Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch to any mixture for extra abrasion—remember to rinse thoroughly after cleaning
Combine your chosen ingredients directly in the spray bottle, using a funnel if needed. Shake well before each use and clearly label the bottle “Glass Cleaner.” Store out of reach of children and pets.
Window Cleaning Tips
Follow these tips to achieve the best, streak-free results on windows and mirrors.
Wait For Shade
Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight or while glass is hot. Heat causes the cleaner to evaporate too quickly, which often leaves streaks. Clean when the glass is cool so the solution can work before drying.
Dust First
Wipe away loose dust and dirt with a microfiber cloth or lint-free rag before spraying. Removing surface debris first prevents you from simply spreading grit around when the glass is wet.
Spray, Wait, Wipe
After spraying, let the cleaner sit for a few seconds to loosen grime. This reduces the amount of scrubbing required and helps lift dirt for a smoother wipe.
Wipe In A “Box + S” Pattern
Start by tracing a “box” around the edges of the window or mirror to clean corners thoroughly. Then wipe in a continuous “S” motion from top to bottom to avoid dragging dirt back across cleaned areas. This two-step pattern helps prevent streaks and missed spots.
Use The Right Cloth
Avoid paper towels or old lint-prone rags. Microfiber cloths and lint-free towels give the best, streak-free finish. A small squeegee also produces excellent results on larger windows.
More House Cleaning Advice
If you enjoy DIY cleaners, there are many other simple projects that make home upkeep easier, from stainless-steel sink care to tackling fruit flies or choosing the right tools for pressure washing. Experiment with small recipes, keep safety in mind, and adapt solutions to the surfaces you clean.
Tip: Always test any new cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t affect finishes or coatings.