When it comes to cleaning glass, Windex is probably the first brand that comes to mind. But there are plenty of other great options that do the job just as well, if not better.

Some are natural, some are better for the environment, others are easier on your wallet, and they all get your glass surfaces looking crystal clear.

So before you reach for that familiar blue bottle again, take a look at these 7 Windex alternatives.

#1 Vinegar and Water

This is one of the simplest and most effective glass cleaning solutions around. 

Vinegar is a natural degreaser, and when mixed with water, it creates a powerful, streak-free cleaner that works on everything from windows to mirrors. 

Just mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, give it a shake, and get to cleaning. 

For extra shine, wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper (yep, it really works!).

Got some stubborn spots? Add a bit more vinegar to the mix, but don't go overboard or you'll end up with that vinegar smell lingering around. 

Here's a pro tip: clean your windows on a cloudy day or when they're not in direct sunlight - this prevents the solution from drying too quickly and leaving streaks.

Also Read: Water Streaks On Painted Walls

#2 Baking Soda Paste

Baking soda isn’t just for baking—it’s an amazing all-purpose cleaner!

For those really tough spots, like mineral buildup or sticky residue on your glass, a baking soda paste can do the trick. 

Just mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Apply it to any spots or stains on your glass, let it sit for a minute, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.

It's gentle enough that it won't scratch your glass but tough enough to handle those annoying water spots and mineral buildup. It's a pretty good natural Windex alternative!

This works especially well on shower doors that have years of buildup or outdoor windows that face lots of weather exposure.

#3 Rubbing Alcohol, Vinegar, Cornstarch, and Water

This might sound like a strange combination, but trust me, it works! 

Mixing rubbing alcohol, vinegar, cornstarch, and water creates a super-effective glass cleaner that’s perfect for removing streaks and smudges. 

Take two cups of water, mix in half a cup each of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol, then add two tablespoons of cornstarch. 

The alcohol makes sure everything dries quickly without streaks, the cornstarch helps lift off dirt, and the vinegar tackles grease and grime. It works amazingly well on really dirty glass. 

Store this mixture in a dark bottle and shake it well before each use - the cornstarch tends to settle at the bottom. 

This solution is perfect for large cleaning jobs like sliding glass doors or multiple windows.

Also Read: How To Get Candle Wax Off Counter

#4 Sprayway Glass Cleaner

If you prefer a store-bought Windex alternative, Sprayway Glass Cleaner is a solid choice. 

This foam cleaner works quickly to remove dirt, grime, and fingerprints from glass without leaving streaks behind. It’s ammonia-free, making it safer for the environment, and it doesn’t have a harsh chemical smell. 

Plus, a little goes a long way, so it’s very cost-effective!

You'll find a lot of professional window cleaners reaching for this instead of Windex. 

It's particularly good for cleaning high windows or mirrors because the foam won't drip down your arms while you're working. 

#5 Seventh Generation Free & Clear Glass Cleaner

For those who want a plant-based, eco-friendly cleaner, Seventh Generation Free & Clear Glass Cleaner is a fantastic Windex substitute. 

It’s made with plant-based ingredients instead of harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. 

This makes it perfect if you've got kids or pets around. And it's good for the planet too. Even the bottle is made from recycled materials too, so you're reducing plastic waste.

That said, you might need to put a bit more elbow grease into it, but it gets the job done.

Despite being natural, it’s still very effective at cleaning glass and mirrors.

Keep in mind that this cleaner works best when you're maintaining already clean surfaces rather than tackling heavy-duty messes.

Also Read: TSP for cleaning windows

#6 Magic Shower Glass & Mirror Cleaner

Magic Shower Glass & Mirror Cleaner is great if you're dealing with more than just fingerprints on your glass. 

The best part? It leaves behind a protective layer that helps keep the glass clean longer. 

This is perfect for shower doors and bathroom mirrors that are always getting wet and steamy. Use it once a week and you'll notice water beading up and rolling off instead of leaving spots. 

The protective coating can last for several weeks, which means less frequent cleaning in the long run. 

It's a bit pricier than regular glass cleaners, but the time and effort you save make it worth it.

#7 Glass Plus

Glass Plus is another solid, budget-friendly alternative to Windex that cleans glass surfaces without the ammonia. 

It's really good at getting rid of fingerprints and grease, which makes it perfect for glass tables and screens that people touch a lot. Plus, it dries without leaving any streaks behind. 

You can use it on more than just glass - it works great on chrome, stainless steel, and plastic too.

Keep a bottle in your kitchen for cleaning appliances, another in your living room for tables and electronics, and one in your cleaning caddy for general use. 

The spray nozzle is designed to cover a wide area, which makes cleaning large surfaces quicker and easier.

Wrapping Up

There are a ton of alternatives to Windex. 

The homemade cleaners are great if you want to save money and keep things natural. The store-bought ones each have their own special features that might be exactly what you need. 

Think about what matters most to you - whether it's being environmentally friendly, having serious cleaning power, or getting long-lasting protection. 

Caring for the environment? Try the Seventh Generation. 

Want something that works everywhere? Glass Plus might be your best bet. 

Remember, the best cleaner is the one that fits your specific situation and cleaning style.

It's actually not a bad idea to keep a couple of different cleaners around, since different cleaning jobs might need different approaches.