What should Windex not be used for?

Author: Dr. Americo McClure  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Porous countertop materials, like granite and marble, shouldn't be cleaned with Windex or anything else that's harsh. They are delicate, even though they seem so sturdy. Harsh chemicals can seep into the pores and leave stains or even break down the sealant on the top.

Can you use Windex on anything?

Countertop, glass cook top, tile, and grout grime won't stand a chance against Windex. The product works on granite, marble, and laminate countertops, and—best of all—won't erode or damage grout. No need to even switch cleansers when you switch to wiping down enamel and stainless steel appliances.

What should you not use glass cleaner on?

Be safe and don't use glass cleaner directly on humans or animals. Delicate electronic screens like phones, televisions, or laptops don't do well with glass cleaner, either.

What are the precautions of Windex?

  • Handling: Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Wash thoroughly after handling. FOR COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL USE ONLY.
  • Storage: Protect from freezing. Keep tightly closed in a dry, cool and well-ventilated place. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
  • Aerosol Level (if applicable) : Not applicable.

What surfaces can Windex be used on?

For best results, use a Windex® Multi-Surface Cleaner on countertops made from marble, granite, ceramic tile, enameled paint (appliances), stainless steel, and chrome.

6 Uses for Windex You Should Know

What can Windex damage?

Things You Should Never Clean With Windex
  • Plexiglass. This is a surprising one, but you can't use Windex on Plexiglass, so if you have any art framed in some or any other decor made from it, put the bottle down. ...
  • Scummy shower doors. ...
  • TV screens. ...
  • Granite countertops. ...
  • Unsealed wood.
  • Car glass.

Can Windex be used to clean any surface?

This product will clean and shine surfaces without any dull residue. When used as directed, it kills 99.9% of germs‡ and bacteria† on hard, non-porous surfaces. Great for cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, tiles, stainless steel, and more.

Is Windex safe for mirrors?

Glass Cleaner Alternatives That Really Shine. First, as most of us know, Windex does an excellent job of cleaning windows and mirrors. That's because the main ingredient in the product is ammonia. Ammonia is a strong chemical with just enough abrasive properties to remove dirt and grime without scratching the glass.

Can you use Windex on wood?

Wood. The ammonia in original Windex can damage wood, so if there's a mess on your backyard deck, keep the Windex inside. “Wood is a natural surface that can dry out and crack, like your skin,” says Glickman.

Is Windex considered a hazardous chemical?

Not classified as dangerous in the meaning of transport regulations. Not classified as dangerous in the meaning of transport regulations. listing on the U.S. Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory.

Can you use Windex on toilets?

The Windex product we're talking about may surprise you — it's the Original Windex Glass Cleaner. This glass cleaner contains chemicals designed to cut through greasy marks like fingerprints and other grime, leaving a polished shine on glass surfaces, so it'll work wonders for your porcelain toilet!

What can you not mix with Windex?

Bleach and ammonia

Many window cleaners, such as Windex, contain ammonia. If mixed with bleach, it produces a toxic gas called chloramine. Fumes from this gas can cause sinus congestion, choking, shortness of breath, and coughing. In some cases, it can even cause chest pain.

Can I use Windex on shower doors?

Windex can be used on glass shower doors to help remove marks and streaks, however it may not be the best option for removing a build up of mineral deposits or soap scum.

Can you use Windex on sinks?

Sink and faucets

Clean your stainless steel sink and faucet with soap and water then dry with a clean microfiber cloth. Next, spray the sink and faucet with Windex and wipe dry for super-shiny results.

Is Windex safe to use on kitchen counters?

Use a multi-surface cleaner such as Windex® Multi-Surface Disinfectant Cleaner to clean and shine countertops made of sealed granite, sealed marble, Corian®, Formica® and more. For a gentle clean that also works on a variety of surfaces, try Windex® Vinegar Glass Cleaner.

Does Windex need to be rinsed?

For best results, make sure you completely rinse suds. Do not allow product to dry before rinsing, rinse windows from top to bottom and use Windex® Outdoor Sprayer when the temperature is above 55º F. If the product is applied to eaves or siding above windows, it may drip down on windows.

Can you use Windex on TV?

Chemical cleaners like Windex might contain harsh ingredients that could damage your LCD TV screen. No, it is not safe to use Windex to clean your computer monitor or TV.

Can I use Dawn soap to clean wood?

If your wood furniture has any spots with sticky residue, add a drop of dish soap to a microfiber cloth and test a tiny, out-of-sight section of the piece to make sure the finish doesn't get removed. If it's OK, combine a few drops of dish soap with a cup of water and gently clean the section.

Does Windex leave any residue?

Don't leave the streak-free shine behind when you reach for a multi-surface cleaner that kills 99.9% of germs, viruses^, and bacteria on hard, non-porous surfaces. Windex® Disinfectant Cleaner Multi-Surface leaves behind a fresh citrus scent without any dull residue.

Why is my Windex leaving streaks?

Have you ever spent hours washing your windows, only to notice streaks everywhere? This has to do with the evaporation rate—if your cleaning solution evaporates before you have time to wipe it off, it will leave a mark.

Why is my mirror foggy after Windex?

Even multi-purpose cleaners are too strong for cleaning mirrors. They often leave a toxic residue that makes mirrors hazy. Soapy cleaners also leave behind a residue that contributes to streaks, so avoid those too.

Does vinegar clean better than Windex?

Spray a stronger mix of 1:1 water and vinegar (or Windex, or glass cleaner) at your window, so that the solution covers most of the glass. (I found Windex to work better, but if you have pets—or kids—who frequently lick outdoor windows, vinegar may be the best route for you.)

Can I clean walls with Windex?

Yes, however, it is advisable to spray the product onto a clean, soft cloth, and then use it to wipe the surface as opposed to spraying the wall directly with Windex.

Does Windex remove urine smell?

Window cleaner is a surprisingly effective pet urine cleaner

By using an ammonia based cleaning spray, such as Windex, we are able to disinfect the impacted area and neutralize much of the ammonia and urea salts.

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