Windex and even generic versions of it contain a powerful chemical, ammonia, which gives the product its telltale pungent scent. Ammonia is colorless at room temperature, has alkaline properties, and is highly corrosive and irritating, according to the New York State Department of Health.
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.
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.
No! It's not food safe.
For best results, use a Windex® Multi-Surface Cleaner on countertops made from marble, granite, ceramic tile, enameled paint (appliances), stainless steel, and chrome.
Windex works as a degreaser for cooktops, range hoods, fans, light fixtures and other areas that attract grease and grime. Spray the area with Windex and allow it to sit for a few minutes, then wipe clean. Rinse well if using near food preparation areas.
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!
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.
You should wear a mask when cleaning the bathroom to protect yourself against harsh cleaning chemicals. The face mask will filter out toxic chemicals before they can reach your airways, protecting your internal systems. They can also protect your skin if any of the cleaning products splash on your face.
Just spray, rinse and let dry for a streak-free shine on the outside of windows, patio furniture, playsets and more. It's easy to make second story windows and hard-to-reach places sparkle, without any dull residue left behind. The unique formula works without wiping.
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.
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.
Top Pick: Windex – Complete
Our pick for best overall glass cleaner is Windex. It simply cleans and eliminates streaking better than any of the other products we tested.
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.)
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.
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.
So long as your wood (floor or furniture) has been sealed with a waterproof, astringent proof finishing, such as hard glaze clear varnish or polyurethane varnish, using Windex should be completely harmless. Just like Windex doesn't leave any residue on furniture, it shouldn't leave any residue on your wood furniture.
Paper towels are an easy go-to whenever you're cleaning glass. But, that right there is your problem. Paper towel is the number one culprit of leaving behind streaks and lint. Paper towels are typically treated for absorbency, which makes them ideal for spills, but awful for glass cleaning.
Windex® streak-free shine joins the power to kill 99.9% of germs‡, viruses^, and bacteria† on hard, non-porous surfaces and Glade® fresh scent. Add a fresh fragrance to your cleaning routine with Windex® Disinfectant Cleaner Multi-Surface with Glade® Rainshower®.
“Brushes are the better choice to clean dishes, from an hygienic point of view.
The better way to hand wash your dishes
Use a plastic or silicone brush. Brushes tend to stay drier when they're not used, and they don't have as many deep crevices as sponges where water and bacteria can grow.