homemade window cleaner solution by Martha Stewart
"Let's zap those windows with a kick-ass DIY cleaner, shall we?"
The 'Not-So-Secret' Magic Behind Homemade Glass Cleaners
Commercial glass cleaners brag about providing a shine so crystal clear, you'd think you're looking through a pane of diamonds. However, sneaky ingredients hidden behind obscure chemical names might make you think twice about reaching for that bottle next time. Enter the scene: a DIY window cleaner brew that knocks store-bought cleaners out of the park, all while keeping things green and budget-friendly.
For those who remain unconvinced, let me be the bearer of good news: even Martha herself swears by a homemade solution! To put your doubts to rest, here's the run-down on why a natural, DIY approach to window cleaning is the way to go for your homes and Mother Earth.
The Perks of Crafting Your Own Window Cleaner
Commercial glass cleaners, while they clean like a boss, often come adorned with a parade of synthetic chemicals that can give you a headache (and a few other health problems). With a homemade cleaner, you'll significantly lessen your exposure to these harsh chemicals often found in store-bought cleaning products.
Here's what to expect when you opt for cleaning with zero mystery ingredients combined with simple, safe, and effective cleaning agents:
- Going Green: Most commercial cleaners come in plastic bottles, adding to the plastic waste problem. Make your own cleaner, and you'll be able to reuse spray bottles and other containers, cutting down on single-use plastic waste. The ingredients themselves in DIY cleaners are usually also biodegradable and gentle on the planet.
- Take Charge of Your Cleaner: With DIY window cleaners, you're the boss. Say adieu to fretting about hidden chemicals or additives that may not be so friendly to your family or furry friends.
- Budget-saver: Commercial glass cleaners can be quite the cash cow, especially if you use them often. Swap them out for some common household ingredients, and you'll enjoy cost-effective cleaning that doesn't compromise on performance!
- Got a mess? No worries!: When that store-bought cleaner runs dry and you're left staring an emergency clean-up in the face, whip up a DIY solution in a jiffy with ingredients you've got in your pantry on hand.
Martha's Signature DIY Window Cleaner
Our favorite domestique Martha has shared her go-to window cleaner recipe, a natural, non-toxic solution that gets the job done.
What You'll Need:
- White vinegar
- Water
- Spray bottle
- Microfiber cloths
"Vinegar obliterates germs, is much more cost-effective than chemical cleaners, and totally harmless," Martha raves. "Or in other words, it's a cleaning powerhouse that's safe for homes with kids and pets!"
Instructions:
- Choose a moment when the sun isn't shining directly on the windows. The sun's heat can cause the cleaning fluid to dry, encouraging streaks or water spots.
- Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Want a little extra cleaning power? Adjust the ratio to your liking.
- Generously spray the cleaner onto each pane (but be careful not to drench the frame).
- Wipe the windows down with a slightly dampened microfiber cloth saturated with the vinegar-water solution.
- Dry the windows thoroughly and finish by buffing them with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks. "Make sure to wipe the windows completely dry to stop any more grime from accumulating," Martha advises.
For those who are households with little ones or pets, vinegar's gentle, natural antibacterial properties make it a beyond perfect cleaner. Ditch the window fog with this budget-friendly, eco-friendly solution that competes with even the priciest commercial cleaners!
Want More Vinegar Tricks in Your Life? 30 Brilliant Ways to Use Vinegar in Your Home## How Often to Give Your Windows Some Love
"Clean those windows regularly to keep them shining bright," Martha suggests with a twinkle in her eye.Environmental factors such as high pollen or pollution levels should influence your clean window schedule. Typically, it's a good idea to clean the exteriors of your windows at least twice a year--once in the late fall and again during spring cleaning season.
And don't forget about your indoor windows. They need a good scrub down weekly or bi-weekly, too!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Won't vinegar leave a smelly residue on my windows?
A: Once the vinegar has dried, the residue disappears, leaving a mere trace of its fruity scent. This slight vinegar aroma can even make your home feel fresh and clean.
Q: Can I add dish soap to the vinegar-water solution for better cleaning power?
A: Yes, dish soap can increase the cleanliness of your homemade cleaner, but be cautious not to use too much as it can leave streaks behind.
Q: How do I remove stubborn tacky residue from windows?
A: A solution of equal parts rubbing alcohol and water works wonders to remove hard-to-eliminate substances on windows. Spray it on, let it sit, and wipe it away for sparkling, streak-free windows.
- Martha Stewart shares her preferred homemade window cleaner recipe, a non-toxic, natural solution that offers comparable performance to store-bought cleaners.
- The recipe includes white vinegar, water, a spray bottle, and microfiber cloths for an effective, eco-friendly cleaning experience.
- To use, spray the window panes with the solution, wipe with a dampened microfiber cloth, dry thoroughly, and buff to prevent streaks.
- Vinegar's gentle yet powerful antibacterial properties make it a safe choice for households with children or pets.
- Consider adding a dash of dish soap to increase cleaning power, but be mindful not to create streaks, and remember that stubborn residue can be removed using a solution of equal parts rubbing alcohol and water.
