Information About Glass Cleaner Containing Ammonia

Glass cleaners containing ammonia are effective in cleaning other materials.

Glass cleaners are versatile products that can be used to clean glass as well as appliances, laminates and painted surfaces. An ammonia-based cleaner can break through stubborn grease to restore shine to these items; however, because of its strength, ammonia is not recommended for automotive cleaning as it can damage certain materials, including leather and vinyl.

Commercial Glass Cleaners

A number of name brand and store brand glass cleaners contain ammonia. Although directions for use vary by manufacturer, certain materials commonly appear on warning labels. These include marble, granite, leather, vinyl and ceramic, as the ammonia may cause serious damage to these materials. Read packaging directions and warnings to learn how to use the chosen product.

Test for Colorfastness

Before using an ammonia-based glass cleaner, test the product on the item you intend to clean. Spray the cleaner on an inconspicuous area and wipe it off. Allow the item to dry completely and verify colorfastness. If the color has faded or the texture has changed, do not use the product on this item.

Homemade Ammonia Glass Cleaner

For a potent homemade glass cleaner, combine 1 cup each of rubbing alcohol and water with 1 tablespoon of clear ammonia. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle, and clean windows and other glass products as desired. Most glass products can be cleaned with ammonia; however, cleaning tinted glass with ammonia may damage or removing the tint.

Cleaning Carpet With an Ammonia Glass Cleaner

Glass cleaners that contain ammonia are effective in cleaning more than glass and windows. Dilute 1 tablespoon of clear ammonia with 1/2 cup water. Using gloved hands, dip a washcloth in the mixture, and dab carpet stains. Allow the solution to sit in the carpet for 10 minutes, then place a dry towel over the spot. Apply pressure to the towel to soak up excess liquid.

Since ammonia is a main component of pet urine, this process is not recommended to clean a pet stain. The offending pet may return to the spot repeatedly because of the ammonia scent lingering in the carpet.

Ammonia Glass Cleaner and Bleach

Ammonia, a corrosive material, is very powerful and can be hazardous if it is used improperly. When ammonia is exposed to bleach, chloramine gas is generated. This gas can cause nausea, chest pain, difficulty breathing and pneumonia. Although ammonia-based glass cleaners are not as potent as concentrated ammonia, using the product in conjunction with chlorine bleach is not recommended.

References

• State of New Jersey Department of Health: Common Cleaning Products May be Dangerous When Mixed
• New York State Department of Health: The Facts About Ammonia
• Mrs. Clean USA: Make Glass Cleaner
• Detergents and Soaps: Glass Cleaners
• Ask the Builder: Marble