5 Best Homemade Window Cleaning Solutions You Should Try

TLDR;

The best homemade window cleaning solutions use simple ingredients like vinegar, dish soap, and rubbing alcohol to deliver streak-free results without harsh chemicals. These DIY recipes are budget-friendly, eco-conscious, and highly effective for both residential and commercial windows.

Why Homemade Window Cleaning Is the Way to Go

Homemade window cleaning solutions are not just about saving a few bucks—they're healthier for your home, safer for your family, and better for the planet.

• Eco-friendly: Most store-bought cleaners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor air pollution. Homemade options eliminate that risk.
  
• Non-toxic: No harsh fumes or skin-irritating agents. Perfect for homes with kids, pets, or allergy-prone individuals.
  
• Cost-effective: Why pay for overpriced brands when you likely already have the ingredients at home?
  
• Customizable: Add essential oils for scent or adjust ingredients based on window type and dirt level.
  
  

Did You Know?


Conventional window cleaners often contain butyl cellosolve—a solvent linked to headaches, dizziness, and even kidney or liver damage with long-term exposure.

Essential Tools & Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the recipes, gather the right tools for a streak-free finish. Here's what you’ll need:

Tools Checklist:

• Spray bottle (preferably glass or BPA-free plastic)
  
• Microfiber cloths (won’t leave lint)
  
• Squeegee (great for large windows)
  
• Bucket (for outdoor or large-scale jobs)
• Explore our favorite Tools for Cleaning Windows for pro-level results and safe, efficient cleaning.
  
  

Ingredients:

• White vinegar: Natural disinfectant and grime cutter
  
• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl): Speeds up drying, prevents streaks
  
• Dish soap: Breaks down greasy buildup
  
• Cornstarch: Adds scrubbing power
  
• Ammonia (optional): Powerful cleaner—use with caution
  
• Lemon juice: Natural degreaser and adds fresh scent
  
• Distilled water: Prevents mineral spots (especially important in hard water areas)
  
  

Tap Water vs. Distilled Water

Tap water can leave mineral deposits on glass, especially in areas with hard water. If you're going for spotless clarity, distilled water is your best bet.

Top 5 Homemade Window Cleaning Solutions (With Recipes)

Each of these recipes has been field-tested by the team at Amazing Finish Windows. Whether you’re cleaning high-rise office glass or kitchen windows, there’s a solution here that fits.

1. Vinegar & Dish Soap Solution (Best All-Around Cleaner)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar
  
• 1 cup distilled water
  
• 1 tsp dish soap
  
  

Instructions:

• Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
  
• Shake gently to blend.
  
• Spray on windows, wipe with a microfiber cloth or squeegee.
  
  

Best Use: Everyday dirt and light grease
Pros: Cheap, effective, gentle on all surfaces
Cons: Vinegar smell (can be masked with essential oils)
Safety Note: Never mix with bleach

2. Rubbing Alcohol & Vinegar Cleaner (Fast-Drying & Streak-Free)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rubbing alcohol (70% or 91%)
  
• 1 cup distilled water
  
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
  
  

Instructions:

• Combine ingredients in a spray bottle.
  
• Spray on glass and wipe clean with a lint-free cloth.
  
  

Best Use: High-traffic areas, commercial windows
Pros: Quick drying, minimal streaking
Cons: Stronger scent
Safety Note: Use in a well-ventilated area

3. Cornstarch Glass Scrub (Deep Cleaning Power)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
  
• 1 cup vinegar
  
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
  
  

Instructions:

• Mix thoroughly until cornstarch is dissolved.
  
• Apply to windows using a spray bottle or sponge.
  
• Rinse and wipe dry with microfiber.
  
  

Best Use: Caked-on grime, outdoor windows
Pros: Mild abrasiveness, safe on glass
Cons: Needs proper mixing to avoid residue

4. Ammonia-Based Cleaner (Heavy-Duty Professional Use)

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp clear ammonia
  
• 2 cups water
  
• 2 tbsp rubbing alcohol
  
• Optional: 1 tsp dish soap
  
  

Instructions:

• Mix in a spray bottle with caution.
  
• Wear gloves and ventilate the room.
  
• Apply to glass and clean with a squeegee.
  
  

Best Use: Construction dust, nicotine film
Pros: Industrial strength
Cons: Strong smell, use with care
Safety Note: Never mix with bleach or acids

5. Lemon Juice & Vinegar Natural Cleaner (Fresh Scent & Shine)

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp lemon juice
  
• 1 cup vinegar
  
• 1 cup water
  
  

Instructions:

• Mix and spray onto windows.
  
• Wipe clean with microfiber cloth.
  
  

Best Use: Kitchens, bathroom mirrors
Pros: Smells great, gentle and effective
Cons: Slightly less powerful on greasy buildup

Comparison Table: Which Solution Is Best for What?

Editor’s Pick: Rubbing Alcohol & Vinegar – great balance of power and streak-free finish
Most Versatile: Vinegar & Dish Soap

Seasonal Window Cleaning Tips for Better Timing

Timing your cleanups can drastically improve results. Here's how to adjust your approach year-round:

Spring

• Deal with pollen buildup
  
• Use vinegar-based cleaners to cut plant residue
  
• Choose a cloudy day to avoid streaks from sun
  
  

Summer

• Tackle sun glare and haze
  
• Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight—solution will dry too fast
  
• Use rubbing alcohol to speed drying in humid conditions
  
  

Fall

• Remove dust and leaf debris
  
• Ideal time for deep cleans before winter
  
  

Winter

• Watch for freezing temps
  
• Use warm water-based solutions indoors
  
• Avoid alcohol-based mixes outdoors unless it's above freezing
  
  

Tip: Want a ready-to-go cleaning calendar? Download our Seasonal Window Cleaning Checklist from Amazing Finish Windows (available on request).

Safety Tips for Homemade Cleaners

While these solutions are safer than store-bought brands, proper handling still matters.

NEVER MIX:

• Vinegar + Bleach = toxic chlorine gas
  
• Ammonia + Bleach = deadly fumes
  
  

Safety Best Practices:

• Use gloves to protect skin
  
• Ventilate the area—especially with ammonia
  
• Label your spray bottles clearly
  
• Keep all solutions away from children and pets
  

How to Get Streak-Free Windows Every Time

Avoiding streaks is all about the right method—not just the right mix.

Pro Tips:

• Clean windows top to bottom
  
• Use a microfiber cloth or newspaper (no paper towels)
  
• Try a squeegee for large windows
  
• Don’t let the cleaner dry before wiping
  
• Clean window frames and sills before glass
  
  

Common Mistakes:

• Using too much solution
  
• Wiping with dirty or wet cloths
  
• Cleaning in direct sunlight
  

FAQs About Homemade Window Cleaning

Can vinegar damage windows?

Not if used correctly. It’s safe on glass but avoid prolonged contact with window seals or painted frames.

What’s the best natural window cleaner?

For general use, the vinegar and dish soap mix is the most balanced in power and safety.

How do I prevent streaks?

Use distilled water, clean microfiber cloths, and avoid cleaning in direct sunlight.

Will these work on tinted windows?

Yes—but avoid ammonia on tinted glass as it may degrade the film.

Is it safe for double-pane windows?

Absolutely. These solutions are surface-level cleaners and won’t affect the seal.