Non-Toxic Window Cleaner

A non-toxic window cleaner is much safer than a commercial window cleaner. When it comes to keeping windows sparkling clean, many store-bought cleaners can leave residue or contain harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for a more natural, effective alternative, making your own window cleaner is a great option. This DIY recipe uses simple ingredients—water, white vinegar, and lemon oil—that not only clean effectively but are also environmentally friendly. Here’s how to make and use your own window cleaner, along with important safety tips for different surfaces and proper storage.

DIY window cleaner

The Best Way to Make DIY Non-Toxic Window Cleaner

To make your DIY window cleaner, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups of water
  • 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • 10 drops of lemon oil

Start by combining the water and vinegar in a glass spray bottle. Glass bottles are ideal because they are non-reactive, unlike plastic which may degrade over time, especially when exposed to acidic ingredients like vinegar. Plus, using a reusable bottle is an eco-friendly choice. After adding the water and vinegar, carefully drop in 10 drops of lemon oil. The lemon oil not only adds a refreshing citrus scent but also enhances the cleaning power of the solution, cutting through grease and leaving your windows streak-free.

lemon oil

How to Use the DIY Non-Toxic Window Cleaner

Using the cleaner is simple, but for the best results, there are a few tips to follow. First, make sure you’re using a lint-free cloth. A lint-free cloth works perfectly, as it doesn’t leave fibers behind and absorbs the cleaner evenly.

lint freecleaning cloth
  1. Shake the bottle gently before each use to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.
  2. Spray the cleaner directly onto the glass surface.
  3. Use the lint-free cloth to wipe the cleaner in circular motions, covering the entire window. Finish with vertical or horizontal strokes to avoid streaks.
A Woman Wiping a Glass Panel
Pexels-Photo by Antonius Ferret

For larger or particularly grimy windows, you may need to apply a second spray, but usually, this mix is powerful enough to handle everyday smudges, fingerprints, and dust with one application.

Surfaces to Avoid and Safety Considerations

While this DIY window cleaner is perfect for glass, you should be careful when using it on other surfaces. The white vinegar in the solution is acidic, and while effective on glass, it can cause damage to certain materials:

  • Wood: Avoid spraying this cleaner directly on wood surfaces, especially unfinished or untreated wood. Vinegar can strip away finishes and leave wood dull or discolored. If you accidentally spray some on a wooden window frame, wipe it off immediately with a damp cloth.
  • Stone Surfaces: Be cautious about using vinegar on natural stone countertops or tiles. The acidity in vinegar can etch and damage stone surfaces like granite, marble, and limestone. If you’re cleaning windows near these materials, it’s best to cover the stone to avoid any splashes.
  • Painted Surfaces: The acidity of vinegar can also break down some paints over time. It’s best to use the cleaner on windows only and avoid getting it on walls or painted trim.
Brown and White Wooden Kitchen Cabinets
Pexels-Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn

Is It Safe for Kids and Pets?

This DIY non-toxic window cleaner is generally much safer than commercial cleaners, as it contains no harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. However, there are still a few considerations for households with children or pets:

  • Vinegar: While not toxic in small amounts, ingesting vinegar in larger quantities can upset stomachs, especially in young children or pets. Make sure to store your cleaner in a safe place, out of reach of curious hands or paws.
  • Essential Oils: Lemon oil is a common essential oil, but it can be mildly toxic to pets, particularly cats if ingested in significant amounts. Cats, in particular, lack enzymes to break down the compounds in essential oils. Though this window cleaner contains only a small amount, it’s important to ensure your pets don’t come into contact with freshly cleaned surfaces where the solution hasn’t fully dried.
diy window cleaner safe for kids and pets

How to Store Your DIY Non-Toxic Window Cleaner

To keep your DIY window cleaner effective and safe for future use, proper storage is essential. Since vinegar and water don’t degrade quickly, this mixture will last for several weeks, or even months, when stored correctly. The lemon oil, however, can break down over time, so it’s best to use your cleaner within three to six months.

  • Store in a cool, dark place: Direct sunlight can degrade the essential oils more quickly, so keep your cleaner in a cabinet or under the sink, away from heat sources.
  • Shake before each use: Since oil and other liquids naturally separate, give the bottle a shake before each cleaning session to ensure an even mix.
glass bottle

How Long is It Good For?

Your DIY non-toxic window cleaner should stay effective for three to six months, depending on how frequently you use it and how well it’s stored. Over time, you may notice that the lemon oil scent becomes less potent—that’s a sign that the oils are starting to degrade. If the cleaner starts to smell off or looks cloudy, it’s time to make a fresh batch. Thankfully, with only three simple ingredients, whipping up a new cleaner is quick and inexpensive.

Conclusion

Making your own non-toxic window cleaner is easy and eco-friendly. It helps you avoid harmful chemicals and reduces plastic waste. With just water, white vinegar, and lemon oil, you can create an effective cleaner. It leaves your windows streak-free and gleaming. Follow proper use tips and avoid surfaces like wood and stone. Store your cleaner correctly to ensure it works for months. Keep it out of reach of kids and pets. You’ll enjoy clean, sparkling windows with peace of mind! Looking for other easy-to-make DIY cleaners for your homestead? Check out my non-toxic DIY cleaner for wood!

Check Out Some of Our Other Homesteading Posts

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *