DIY Window Cleaner – Make Your Own Streak‑Free Glass Cleaner

Cleaning windows can feel like a chore, especially when you end up with fuzzy streaks or a chemical smell. The good news? You don’t need pricey store‑bought sprays. With a few kitchen staples you can whip up a cleaner that works just as well, costs pennies, and is safe around kids and pets.

Simple Recipes You Can Mix at Home

Recipe 1 – Classic Vinegar Mix
Combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup distilled water, and a few drops of mild dish soap. Shake in a spray bottle and you’ve got a powerful degreaser that evaporates fast, leaving glass clear.

Recipe 2 – Alcohol Boost
Mix 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol, 1/2 cup distilled water, and 1 tablespoon white vinegar. The alcohol speeds up drying, so you get a streak‑free finish in seconds.

Recipe 3 – Citrus Fresh
Fill a spray bottle with 2 cups water, add the zest of one lemon, and a teaspoon of baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes, then shake and spray. The citrus cuts grease and adds a pleasant scent.

All three mixes are safe for standard windows, mirrors, and glass shower doors. Just label the bottle and store it out of direct sunlight to keep the formula stable.

Pro Tips for Streak‑Free Results

Use the right cloth. Micro‑fiber towels are the secret. They trap dust and dry quickly, so you won’t re‑deposit grime while wiping.

Work in the shade. Sunlight makes any cleaner dry too fast, causing streaks. Pick a cloudy day or clean inside rooms where the windows are shaded.

Paper towel backup. For stubborn spots, spray the cleaner, wipe with a microfiber cloth, then finish with a dry paper towel to buff out any remaining lines.

Top‑to‑bottom motion. Start at the top of the pane and work down. Gravity helps pull the solution over the glass, reducing drips.

Don’t over‑spray. A light mist is enough. Too much liquid runs, dries unevenly, and leaves marks.

Try these recipes and tips on a small window first. Once you’re happy with the shine, move on to the big panes. You’ll notice the difference right away – no harsh chemicals, no lingering smell, just crystal‑clear glass.

Ready to ditch the store‑bought spray? Grab a spray bottle, mix your favorite DIY formula, and enjoy sparkling windows without the hassle.