Information About Glass Cleaner With Ammonia

Ammonia is a common ingredient in glass cleaner.

Ammonia is a common find in any household cleaning cabinet. One of its most common uses is that of a glass cleaner. Mixed properly, ammonia acts as an effective, low-cost glass cleaning agent that is easy to use and abundantly available. However, some care must be taken to use it properly in the home to avoid any hazards.

Definition of Ammonia

The form of ammonia used for household cleaning is called Ammonium Hydroxide. Also called ammonia water, this chemical is colorless and is the active ingredient in many glass cleaners.

Ammonia as a Glass Cleaner

Ammonia is most commonly used because of its ability to leave a streak-free surface after cleaning. In addition to a streak free shine, ammonia can cut through grease effectively and remove dirt.

Homemade Glass Cleaner Vs. Store-Bought

In the proper concentration, ammonia can be a safe and cheap way to clean. The most basic glass cleaner is made with two parts ammonia and one part water. For a glass cleaner that is strong enough to get rid of hard water stains, make a mixture of ammonia, vinegar, cornstarch and water; this solution only costs 20 cents per gallon. Well-known and commonly used brands of ammonia-based glass cleaner is sold on average for about $4 per quart, as of 2010. That equals $16 per gallon. The store-bought cleaner is much more expensive than the homemade glass cleaner but it is also much more convenient and requires no measuring or mixing.

Cautions and Warnings

Ammonia should be used only in well-ventilated areas, even when mixing with water. Never mix ammonia with other household chemicals such as bleach. Ammonia is poisonous if ingested so it should be kept away from children. When handling pure ammonia always use gloves to protect your hands. Ammonia can stain the carpet and upholstery, so avoid mixing or using it around or on carpet and upholstery. Use caution when using ammonia on auto glass, because ammonia dries the rubber, vinyl and plastic that is often found around windshields. Do not use ammonia-based glass cleaners on tinted windows; it will cause the tint to pull away.

Safer Alternative to Ammonia

A solution of one-half cup of vinegar in one gallon of warm water makes an effective glass cleaner that also cuts through grease. Although there are some commercial glass cleaners without ammonia, this simple recipe is by far the cheapest, costing on average about seven cents per gallon. Brand-named multi-surface cleaner with vinegar, although ammonia free, costs about $3.50 for 26 oz. as of 2010. This ammonia-free solution is still hard on the hands so wear gloves, but is safe if ingested.

References

• Autogeek.net: How to Clean Glass
• Dictionary.com: Ammonium Hydroxide
• Naturodoc: Homemade Cleaners

Resources

• Staples: Windex Glass Cleaner Spray