Did you know that windex leaves a wax film on your windows, mirrors and glass?
That’s how it produces that “streak-free” shine, because the layer of wax makes it seem “streak-free”. Which is great, as long as you don’t use windex all that often, or have really dirty windows that you need to clean.
A better and more natural solution?
This Streak-Free Homemade Glass Cleaner. I stumbled on this recipe a few years ago and after using it to clean all.the.windows.in.my.house (and get rid of the windex waxy buildup), it has become one of my cleaning staples. Plus, I love that it is non-toxic, so my kids can use it to their heart’s desire.
A couple of notes:
- Use newspaper. I know it seems weird, but it is the only 100% guaranteed way to get a streak-free shine.
- If your windows are SUPER dirty or you’ve used more than your fair share of windex, add a few drops of liquid dish soap. It will eliminate the wax and the dirt.
- I use Sally Organics 16 ounce Brown Glass Bottle Sprayer. They are a little expensive, but they are very high quality and the sprayer is amazing.
- I use doTERRA Lemon essential oils. I recommend and only use pure therapeutic grade oils. (If you are new to essential oils, here is how I use them in my everyday life.)
If you are interested in more information like this, please sign up for the Whole Living Email Newsletter. You’ll only receive information pertaining to a green and whole living lifestyle.
Streak-Free Homemade Glass Cleaner
Did you know using windex leaves wax on windows and mirrors? A better option is to use this Streak-Free Homemade Glass Cleaner instead, great looking windows, no waxy build up. Plus it’s all-natural, super easy to make, and a third of the cost.
Recipe Yields: 16 oz of glass cleaner spray
Primary Ingredients
3/4 cup white vinegar
1.25 cups of warm distilled water
4 drops of lemon essential oil
16 oz. glass spray bottle (I use this one.)
Instructions
1. Mix all ingredients in a glass spray bottle. Spray glass and wipe with a crumpled newspaper for a streak-free shine.
Do you like to make this yourself? Follow my DIY Tips and Tricks Board on Pinterest where I share ideas like this everyday.
Follow Kelly Snyder’s board DIY Tips and Tricks on Pinterest.
What is the purpose of the essential oil in the glass cleaner, Is it just for smell
Two fold. Lemon cuts grease. So if there is a greasy film on your windows, it will help cut through that as well if there is a Windex build-up (yes, windex uses wax to make that streak-free shine). And yes, it smells good too.
Can orange oil be used? and why the glass bottle? would plastic be ok?
Oils can break down plastic…And yes, you could use orange oil, but it won’t cut the grease as well as lemon.
I have lime DoTerra oil but no Lemon. I live in Uganda and getting Lemon would take forever. Can I use Lime as others asked about Orange?
Yes. Any citrus oil is a good one to use. Lime just won’t cut the grease in the same way as lemon.
Will paper towel be ok to use in place of newspaper?
No. For some reason, paper towels leave streaks and residue.
Ok, thanks!
Hi thanks for this recipe.
Have you tried it w regular tap water?
I’m loathe to go and buy bottled distilled water,
Is there a huge difference?
Cheers Cathy
Love your orange labels-how can I get them?
It’s always best to use natural products. Windex is very toxic. Harmful to humans and pets.
Won’t the essential oil leave streaks or a haze? Maybe not right away but an hour later? I’ve tried all kinds of DIY glass cleaner recipes and they all leave streaks. The only one that has work is plain vinegar and distilled water.