5 Expert Tips to Clean Glass Without Leaving Streaks

Important Takeaways

While not quite as unpleasant as other household tasks like scrubbing the toilet, window cleaning can still feel monotonous and tedious. The frustration heightens when all that careful cleaning results in streaks. And, just when you think you're done, these streaks tend to show up only when the light hits them just right—usually when company is over.

Luckily, it doesn't have to be this way! Like most cleaning jobs, tackling glass—whether it's a window, mirror, or coffee table—comes down more to having the right tools than putting in a lot of effort. With the right supplies, you can achieve streak-free, crystal-clear glass in no time. Keep reading for our simple list of five tips to make your glass surfaces shine with minimal effort and cost. It’s not rocket science—our first tip is a matter of common sense, though it’s often overlooked!

5: Use Distilled Water

While tap water might seem the same everywhere, the truth is that water quality varies greatly depending on your location. This may not be a big issue for cleaning floors or countertops, but when it comes to glass, even the smallest imperfections show up. If you're using tap water to dilute your cleaner, these impurities can make your glass look streaky. Hard water, in particular, contains minerals like magnesium and calcium that will almost certainly leave behind an unattractive, streaky mess.

Rather than using tap water to dilute your glass cleaner, try using distilled water. It’s free from the minerals that can cause streaks, ensuring your glass surfaces stay spotless. Distilled water is fairly inexpensive and easy to find at most grocery stores. If you're on a tight budget, you can even make your own distilled water at home!

4: Try Using Vinegar

Vinegar is a versatile and indispensable pantry staple. It's just as useful for cleaning as it is for dressing a salad, and it costs almost nothing! Plus, it's all-natural, making it an ideal choice for those looking to clean sustainably. Distilled white vinegar is the best for cleaning. It's non-toxic, antibacterial, and its acidic properties are completely safe for people, pets, and the environment.

Whether you're out of your usual glass cleaner or just want a more affordable option, white vinegar is a fantastic solution for cleaning windows and mirrors. Combine it with warm water (preferably soft or distilled water for the best results) in a 1:1 ratio. Pour it into a reusable spray bottle and simply spritz and wipe. Another great mixture includes 1 cup (236 milliliters) of water, 1 cup of rubbing alcohol, and 1 tablespoon of vinegar (the rubbing alcohol helps prevent streaks) [source: Aguirre].

Like other standard cleaners, vinegar water has its own distinct odor. The smell may linger for a while but will disappear quickly. However, if the scent of vinegar makes you cringe, consider saving this streak-free solution for outdoor glass surfaces.

3: Keep Suds to a Minimum

Soap is great when you want to create a rich lather. But if used excessively, the suds will leave ugly streaks on your glass. For a truly deep clean, use only a small amount of soap in your solution – a little goes a long way!

You don't need much soap to remove dirt, and using too much can create a thick cleaner that leaves streaky residue behind. To make your own mix, combine 2 quarts (1.9 liters) of water with 2 quarts of rubbing alcohol, then add just three drops of liquid dish soap [source: Mrs. Clean].

If you're not opposed to chemicals, you can opt for ammonia, which already comes pre-mixed with soap in the right proportions. In that case, mix 1 ounce (29 milliliters) of soapy ammonia, 4 ounces of rubbing alcohol, and 3.3 cups (780 milliliters) of water [source: Cleverly Simple].

Experiment to discover the best formula that works for you. As with any homemade glass cleaner, transfer your mixture into a spray bottle, label it properly, and store it out of children's reach.

2: Ditch the Paper Towels

That bucket of glass-cleaning supplies you carry around when it’s time to clean the windows? Well, it should not contain any paper towels. Surprised? We know—it’s a big revelation.

Now that you’ve calmed down, here’s the truth: paper towels may seem like the easy choice, but they leave behind not only streaks but also annoying lint. Instead, use a cleaner alternative like a microfiber cloth or a squeegee. Or, if you're feeling nostalgic, grab some newspaper (if you can find it)! Surprisingly, those black-and-white pages work wonders on glass. Just avoid the glossy sections and ‘funny pages’ to keep it neat. It might sound strange, but wiping glass with newspaper not only gives it a streak-free finish, but also leaves behind a brilliant shine!

Make sure to apply your cleaning solution to the newspaper or cloth, not directly onto the mirror. This will help prevent the cleaner from dripping into the frame and potentially damaging it.

After all the hard work, it’s time to add the finishing touch.

1: Buff It

Even if you follow all the right steps, such as mixing vinegar with distilled water and using newspaper to wipe, you might still end up with a stubborn streak or two. In that case, a quick buff is often the easiest and most effective fix.

The ideal cloth for the task is either a chamois or a microfiber towel, though a regular cloth will work in a pinch. Remember to steer clear of paper towels, unless you enjoy seeing lint caught in the sunlight! Ensure the cloth is clean and dry, then simply buff the affected area. With a little effort, the streaks will vanish like magic.

As with most household chores, keeping up with regular maintenance makes the task much easier. The less dirt and grime your windows accumulate, the less time you'll spend cleaning them.