How to Make Eco-friendly, Natural Windex

Know exactly what's in your glass cleaner by making it yourself.

Sometimes it is difficult to determine whether harmful substances are present in commercial glass cleaners. But a glass cleaner does not need to contain chemicals to be effective. You can use common pantry staples to keep your glass surfaces clear and shiny without releasing harmful substances into the environment.

Things You'll Need

• Spray bottle
• Isopropyl alcohol or vodka
• Distilled white vinegar
• Filtered water
• Clean towel or crumpled newspaper

Instructions

1. Fill 1/4 of a spray bottle with isopropyl alcohol or vodka.

2. Pour distilled white vinegar into the bottle until it is half full. Vinegar adds shine to glass and dissolves stains.

3. Add enough filtered water to the bottle to bring the liquid level about an inch below the top.

4. Close the bottle tightly and shake it to combine the ingredients.

5. Spray the cleaner onto any glass surface, and wipe the glass with a clean towel or crumpled newspaper.

Tips & Warnings

• The glass cleaner will be most effective if used within three years, since the alcohol may start breaking down after that time. Store in a dark area, and keep the bottle tightly sealed.

References

• Mrs. Clean: Make your Own Glass and Window Cleaner

Resources

• Environmental Working Group: Tip 10: Green Cleaning This Spring