Streak-Free Glass Cleaner

Crystal-clear windows and mirrors with this simple DIY glass cleaner. No streaks, no residue, just sparkling clean glass.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Yield 20 oz
Difficulty Easy
Cost $0.75

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup White vinegar
  • 1/4 cup Rubbing alcohol (70%) (Helps with fast evaporation)
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Secret to streak-free finish)
  • 2 cups Water (Warm helps dissolve cornstarch)
Safe for: glass, mirrors, windows, stainless steel, chrome
Avoid on: tinted windows, anti-glare screens, some plastics

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of vinegar and rubbing alcohol cuts through grime and evaporates quickly to prevent streaks. The secret ingredient is cornstarch - it acts as a mild abrasive that polishes glass while absorbing oily residues that cause streaking.

Instructions

  1. Dissolve cornstarch: Heat 2 cups of water until warm (not boiling). Add cornstarch and stir until completely dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.

  2. Add other ingredients: Pour the cornstarch mixture into a spray bottle. Add vinegar and rubbing alcohol.

  3. Shake before each use: The cornstarch will settle, so always shake well before spraying.

  4. Apply and wipe: Spray onto glass surface and wipe with a lint-free cloth or newspaper in a Z-pattern for best results.

Tips & Variations

  • Use newspaper: Old newspaper makes an excellent glass-cleaning cloth and leaves no lint behind.
  • Microfiber cloths: If using cloths, microfiber works best. Wash without fabric softener.
  • Clean on cloudy days: Direct sunlight causes cleaner to dry too fast, creating streaks.
  • Two-cloth method: Use one damp cloth to clean, one dry cloth to buff.

Safety Notes

  • Ventilate well: Rubbing alcohol fumes can be strong in enclosed spaces.
  • Keep away from flames: Rubbing alcohol is flammable. Don’t use near open flames or while smoking.
  • Avoid tinted windows: May damage window tinting film.
  • Test electronics: Check manufacturer guidelines before using on screens.

Storage

Store in a cool place. Shake well before each use as cornstarch settles. Use within 1 month for best results.