Ammonia For Cleaning Glass (Quick Guide)

Ammonia is one of those old-school cleaning tricks that actually works. It cuts through grime, streaks, and fingerprints like a pro, which is why it’s in so many glass cleaners. 

But before you start spraying it everywhere, there are a few things to know. 

In this quick guide, I’ll show you how to use ammonia for cleaning glass, the do’s and don’ts, and answer some FAQs at the end.

Can You Use Ammonia On Glass?

Yes, you can definitely use ammonia on glass! It’s actually a pretty popular option. 

Ammonia is a powerful cleaner that cuts through grease, grime, and those annoying streaks. 

It helps to break down the dirt, making it easier to wipe away. It works like a charm on your windows, mirrors, or even glass tables. 

But, before you get started, there are a few things you should know. Ammonia is pretty potent, so it’s a good idea to handle it with care. You’ll want to make sure you're using it in a well-ventilated area.

Also, avoid mixing it with anything like bleach. The fumes can be strong, and the last thing you want is to accidentally create harmful gases.

Can You Use Ammonia On Glass

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How To Use Ammonia For Cleaning Glass

Using ammonia to clean glass is actually really easy. It doesn’t take much time, and the results are often impressive. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, here’s a quick list of the essentials you’ll need:

  • 1 quart (4 cups) of warm water

  • 1 tablespoon of ammonia (clear, non-sudsing)

  • 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol (optional for faster drying)

  • A few drops of dish soap (optional for extra cleaning power)

  • Spray bottle

  • Microfiber cloth or lint-free paper towels

That’s all you’ll need! Nothing too complicated. Just a few simple ingredients and tools.

#1 Mix The Solution

Start by mixing your cleaning solution. 

In a bowl or container, add 1 quart (4 cups) of warm water.  Next, pour in 1 tablespoon of clear, non-sudsing ammonia – avoid the sudsy kind since it can leave streaks. 

If you want faster drying, add a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol. It’s optional, but it helps! 

For extra cleaning power, throw in a few drops of dish soap to tackle tough grime. 

Mix everything gently until it’s combined – no need to overdo it. 

Once it’s ready, pour the solution into your spray bottle. And that’s it! Now you’re all set to clean your glass to a shine.

Also Read: Using Steel Wool On Glass

#2 Spray The Glass

With your solution in hand, it’s time to get to work. 

Hold the spray bottle about 6 to 8 inches from the glass and spray a generous amount of the solution onto the surface. 

Make sure you cover the entire area, especially where you can see spots, fingerprints, or grime. You don’t want to miss any spots, so be thorough.

How To Use Ammonia For Cleaning Glass

If your glass is particularly dirty, you may want to spray a little extra solution to let it sit for a moment. 

This will give the ammonia time to work on breaking down any stubborn dirt and grease. Don’t let the solution sit too long, though. You’ll want to move quickly, so nothing dries onto the glass before you wipe it off.

#3 Wipe In A Circular Motion

Now, grab your microfiber cloth or lint-free paper towels. 

Start wiping the glass in a circular motion. The circular motion helps to evenly distribute the cleaning solution and avoid streaks. The cloth should glide smoothly across the surface.

Don’t press too hard. You just want to gently wipe away the dirt and grime. 

When you’re cleaning windows or mirrors, it’s good to work your way from the top down. This helps avoid drips and streaks. 

As you wipe, you’ll notice the glass starting to shine. Pretty satisfying, right?

Also Read: How To Clean Pellet Stove Glass

#4 Buff For Shine

After wiping away the solution and dirt, grab a dry section of your microfiber cloth or a clean paper towel to buff the glass. 

This is the key to getting that perfect, streak-free shine. 

Buffing helps remove any leftover solution and gives the glass a nice polished finish. 

If you’re using a microfiber cloth, it’s extra helpful because it soaks up moisture and gives a smoother, streak-free result. Just keep buffing in circular motions, applying light pressure, until your glass looks spotless. 

It’s a quick step that really makes a big difference, leaving your glass shiny and clean. Trust me, the extra effort is totally worth it!

Bottom Line

And there you have it! Cleaning glass with ammonia is simple, effective, and gives you great results. 

It’s a go-to method for getting your windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces sparkling clean without a lot of effort. 

Just remember to be careful with the ammonia – keep the space ventilated, avoid mixing it with other chemicals, and you’re good to go.

It’s a great trick for when you want your glass to shine without a whole lot of fuss. Give it a try next time you’re tackling your glass surfaces – you’ll love how they turn out. Happy cleaning!

FAQs

Is Ammonia A Good Glass Cleaner?

Yes, ammonia is a great glass cleaner. It cuts through grease, fingerprints, and all that annoying streaky stuff. That’s why it’s in a lot of commercial glass cleaners. 

Can You Use Ammonia Free Glass Cleaner On TV?

Yes! Just make sure the cleaner is safe for screens. A lot of ammonia-free glass cleaners work fine on TVs, but you don’t want anything too strong or too wet. The safest bet is to spray a little on a microfiber cloth (not directly on the screen) and gently wipe it down. 

That way, you avoid streaks and keep your screen looking good.

Can Ammonia Be Used On Glass Dishes?

Not a great idea. Ammonia can leave behind a residue that isn’t safe for food, and you definitely don’t want that on your plates or glasses. 

Dish soap and warm water do the job just fine, and if you need extra shine, a little vinegar works too.

Madison ClarkComment