Summarise this article with:
Looking for the best homemade window cleaning solution that actually works? We’ve gathered the most effective DIY window cleaning recipes using simple household ingredients. From classic vinegar mixtures to powerful dish soap blends, these natural cleaners deliver professional-grade sparkle without harsh chemicals. Your windows will be so clean, they’ll be there for you—when the rain starts to pour!
What Makes a Brilliant DIY Window Washing Solution?
What makes homemade window cleaners so brilliant? It’s all about simplicity and effectiveness! The perfect window washing solution combines just a few household ingredients that work together to leave your windows spotless.
Three essential ingredients for streak-free windows:
- White vinegar – its natural acidity cuts through grime and mineral deposits on windows
- Washing-up liquid – tackles greasy fingerprints and stubborn dirt without leaving residue
- Water in a spray bottle – creates the perfect application method for your homemade window cleaner
The magic of DIY window cleaning solutions? They avoid harsh chemicals whilst delivering professional-grade shine. Happy cleaning starts with understanding that effective doesn’t mean expensive!
Our Top Homemade Window Cleaning Recipes
Vinegar and water: the classic streak-free solution
This time-tested combination delivers sparkling results without breaking the bank. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for most cleaning tasks. The natural acidity in vinegar cuts through mineral deposits and grime whilst diluting to a safe, effective strength.
For stubborn marks, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping. Apply with a microfibre cloth in smooth strokes, then buff dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid direct sun as it dries too quickly and leaves streaks. Want more tips? Check out our full guide on cleaning windows with vinegar.
Dish soap blend: tackling stubborn grime
When grease and stubborn marks refuse to budge, dish soap becomes your secret weapon. Just a few drops of Fairy Liquid transforms ordinary water into a powerful cleaning solution that cuts through the toughest grime.
Combine 2 cups of warm water with half a teaspoon of liquid dish soap in your spray bottle. The soap’s grease-fighting properties tackle fingerprints and cooking residue that plain water simply can’t shift.
Spray generously onto the glass and let it work for 30 seconds before wiping away with a squeegee in smooth, overlapping strokes. The key? Less is more—too much soap creates residue, so stick to our measurements for crystal-clear results.
Rubbing alcohol mix: professional-grade results
Rubbing alcohol transforms ordinary cleaning into professional territory. This powerhouse ingredient evaporates rapidly, leaving no residue whilst cutting through the greasiest fingerprints and toughest grime that other solutions struggle with.
Create your professional-strength cleaner by combining 1 cup of water with ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol and 2-3 tablespoons of white vinegar. The alcohol’s quick-drying properties mean faster cleaning without streaks forming.
Spray onto glass surfaces and wipe away immediately with smooth, confident strokes. The beauty of this mixture? It works brilliantly on mirrors, shower screens, and even stainless steel surfaces.
Pro Tip: How do you make a streak-free glass cleaner?
Top tip: The secret lies in using distilled water! Tap water contains minerals that create those annoying streaks we’re trying to avoid.
Mix one cup of distilled water with one cup of white vinegar in a clean spray bottle. Add a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol to help everything evaporate quickly. Give it a good shake before each use.
The magic happens in your wiping technique. Spray lightly and wipe in one direction—horizontal strokes work brilliantly. Use a microfibre cloth for cleaning, then buff immediately with a dry lint-free cloth. Clean on overcast days when possible, as bright sunshine dries the solution too fast and leaves marks.
Looking for more brilliant cleaning solutions? Check out our complete guide to windows for expert advice!
DIY Window Cleaner Recipes at a Glance
Recipe ratios
| Recipe | Vinegar/Water | Dish Soap/Water | Alcohol Mix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ratio | 1:1 | ½ tsp : 2 cups | 1 cup : ¼ cup |
| Best for | Everyday dirt | Greasy marks | Quick drying |
| Application | Spray bottle | Warm water | Spray & wipe |
Top tip
For a truly streak-free finish with any simple recipe, use distilled water—tap water’s minerals are your window’s worst enemy (think Ross and Rachel: “We were on a break!”).
How to Clean Windows Outside in the UK Climate
Bucket & squeegee method
UK window cleaning experts recommend a simple bucket and squeegee combo to clean windows with a squeegee. Here are effective ways to clean windows outside:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket (add a drop of dish soap for extra grime-cutting power)
- Apply solution with a microfibre cloth in circular motions
- Pull squeegee down in straight strokes, wiping the blade after each pass
Garden-hose shortcut
When time is tight but your windows need a refresh, this rubbing alcohol-based method dries quickly in our unpredictable British weather:
- Attach a window-cleaning attachment to your garden hose
- Spray windows from top to bottom, avoiding window frames
- For a streak-free finish, add rubbing alcohol to your final rinse water
FAQ – Homemade Glass Cleaners
What do professional window cleaners use in their water?
+Professional window cleaners typically use a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap. This creates just enough slip for the squeegee to glide smoothly while effectively cutting through dirt and grime.
Can I use Fairy Liquid to clean windows?
+Yes! Fairy Liquid works extremely well for window cleaning. Add just a few drops to warm water—this blend cuts through grease easily while helping to achieve a streak-free finish.
What is the best homemade window cleaning solution without vinegar?
+Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water, then add a drop of dish soap. This alcohol-based cleaner evaporates quickly, cuts through grime efficiently, and leaves your windows sparkling—without the smell of vinegar.
