Top Non-Toxic Glass Cleaner for a Streak Free Window
When it comes to cleaning windows and mirrors, nothing beats a streak-free shine—especially when it’s done without the harmful toxic chemicals found in traditional glass cleaners. If you’re like me and want your home to sparkle without compromising your indoor air quality or your family’s health, switching to a non toxic glass cleaner is a no-brainer.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make your own cleaner using simple natural ingredients, plus discover a few trusted non-toxic glass cleaners you can buy if DIY isn’t your thing.
We’ll also cover:
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Why ditching conventional window cleaners matters
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A powerful, homemade glass cleaner recipe
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3 brands with effective, plant-based cleaners
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Helpful tips for streak-free windows, at least until your kids make more sticky handprints!
Why You Should Ditch Toxic Glass Cleaners
Most traditional glass cleaners contain a mix of harsh chemicals, including synthetic fragrances, quaternary ammonium compounds, ammonia, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These ingredients can cause:
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Skin irritation or allergic reactions
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Worsened asthma or respiratory issues
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Negative impacts on human health and indoor air quality
Additionally, if you’ve ever felt dizzy or had burning eyes while cleaning windows, you’ve already experienced the side effects of these chemical reactions. Plus, these chemicals can linger on surfaces like picture frames, glass tables, and car windows, where kids and pets often touch. Switching to chemical-free glass cleaners can make a huge difference, especially if you or your family are sensitive to artificial fragrances or synthetic dyes.
If you’ve read any of my other posts, you know I am passionate about creating a toxin-free home and work hard to find alternatives to conventional products. I’ve shared reviews of products for every room in your home, and I love sharing affordable swaps you can make right away!
The Best Homemade Non-Toxic Glass Cleaner
Some of the best things in life are free, or at least close to it—like this simple, natural glass cleaner recipe. After trying out all kinds of homemade and plant-based cleaners, I’ve finally found natural options that work just as well (if not better) than conventional ones! Ready to mix up your own natural glass cleaner? Here’s a ridiculously easy recipe to whip up without any scary ingredients!
Homemade Glass Cleaner Recipe
You’ll Need:
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1 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 cup distilled water
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1 tablespoon corn starch
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10 drops of essential oils (like lemon, peppermint, or lavender)
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1 spray bottle (preferably a glass bottle with a refillable top)
Instructions:
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Add the vinegar, distilled water, and corn starch to your spray bottle.
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Shake well to mix—the cornstarch helps break down grime and ensures a streak-free finish.
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Add your favorite essential oils for natural fragrance and extra cleaning power.
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Shake before each use and spray onto glass, mirrors, or hard surfaces.
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Wipe clean with a cloth or paper towels until dry.
Why It Works:
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White vinegar cuts through grease and grime.
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Corn starch helps lift dirt and prevent streaks.
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Essential oils fight bacteria and freshen the air without harsh perfumes.
It’s also safe for sensitive skin, which is a major win if you’ve ever dealt with skin irritation from store-bought cleaners.
Best Store-Bought Non-Toxic Glass Cleaners
If DIY isn’t your thing or you want something ready to go for busy days, there are excellent non-toxic glass cleaner options available that use plant-powered formulas instead of harmful chemicals. These options are safe, effective, and made by brands that are passionate about ingredient transparency.
Here are three of the best options available in the United States:
Truly Free Glass Cleaner
Truly Free offers a refillable bottle system that reduces plastic waste and keeps your home free from harsh chemicals. Their glass cleaner delivers a streak-free shine using revolutionary plant-powered chemistry.
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Plant-based cleaner with essential oils
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Free from synthetic dyes and artificial fragrance
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Safe for sensitive skin and improving indoor air quality
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Refillable and eco-conscious packaging
Perfect for anyone wanting to reduce waste without sacrificing effectiveness.
Branch Basics Glass Cleaner
Branch Basics is one of the most beloved names in green cleaning products, and for good reason. Their ammonia-free glass cleaner is mixed from their concentrate and designed for streak-free results on windows, mirrors, and more.
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No quaternary ammonium compounds
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Gentle on human health, tough on tough messes
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Works great on car windows, mirrors, and other hard surfaces
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Fragrance-free = no synthetic fragrances or chemical reactions
Perfect for homes with kids, pets, or anyone with sensitive skin.
Force of Nature
This cleaner is literally a science experiment in a bottle. You mix water, salt, and vinegar, and the device transforms it into a powerful cleaner using electrolyzed water technology—no joke!
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Hospital-grade sanitizing power using only natural ingredients
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Zero artificial fragrance or toxic chemicals
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Replaces dozens of household cleaners
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Leaves a surprisingly streak-free finish on windows and mirrors
Perfect for the minimalist who wants one product for almost everything.
Shop through this link for 40% off!
Tips for the Cleanest, Streak-Free Glass Surfaces
No matter which cleaner you choose, a few key tips will help you get that spotless, crystal-clear result:
1. Use a lint-free cloth
While microfiber may seem appealing, it’s not the best option. Instead, find a lint-free cloth or use newspaper!
2. Clean on a cloudy day
Sunlight dries the cleaner too quickly and can leave water spots or streaks. Obviously, I understand that you can’t always put off cleaning until a cloudy day, but it does help!
3. Shake before spraying (especially DIY versions)
Natural ingredients like corn starch settle at the bottom. A quick shake ensures your cleaner recipe stays effective.
4. Don’t over-saturate the surface
Too much product can leave behind streaks. A light mist is all you need for a streak-free finish.
5. Use distilled water
Tap water often contains minerals that can cause streaks. Distilled water gives the cleanest results—especially for mirror cleaners.
FAQs
Can I use this homemade cleaner on car windows?
Yes! Just make sure to buff it out with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots or streaks.
Is it safe for tinted windows or specialty mirrors?
Stick with distilled water and skip essential oils for delicate finishes. Always test a small spot first.
Why does cornstarch help clean glass?
It adds a gentle abrasive effect that helps lift residue for a streak-free window without scratching.
How long does homemade glass cleaner last?
Stored in a cool, dark place in a glass bottle, it should last up to a month. Shake well before each use.
Are paper towels bad for cleaning windows?
They’re not terrible, but they can leave lint. I no longer encourage using microfiber cloths, as they contain microplastics and synthetic ingredients that are bad for our health and environment. A newspaper or old t-shirt works wonders on glass!
Making the Switch to Non-Toxic Cleaners
Swapping out your old traditional glass cleaners for non-toxic glass cleaners is one of the easiest ways to reduce the number of harmful toxic chemicals in your home.
Whether you make your own cleaners or grab one of the natural options listed above, you’re choosing safer air, fewer chemical reactions, and a healthier environment for your family.
Plus, your windows will thank you with that unbeatable, streak-free shine.
Check out my other recent posts on non-toxic swaps!
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