Windex is one of those items you should have in your stockpile. Of course, it’s great for smudges or smears on windows, mirrors, and shower doors, but there are more ways to use Windex than just that.
What’s In Windex?
Did you know Windex comes in at least 12 varieties of cleaners including Windex with ammonia and Windex with vinegar? The active ingredient in Windex is 2-Butoxyethanol. This is a solvent and cleaning agent that loosens soils and allows them to be removed without having to scrub. It evaporates quickly, which is why it’s such a good choice for glass. But, it can be used for so much more…
15 Ways to Use Windex
The original formula of Windex contains cleaning agents, wetting agents, fragrance, and color making it ideal for more than just cleaning glass and mirrors. Here are 10 ways to use Windex in your home:
#1 Laundry Stains
This cleaner is a powerful stain remover on non-silk clothing. It’s especially effective on difficult red stains such as red wine, tomato sauce, and ketchup. Simply spray it on the stain liberally, allow it to soak for about 20-minutes, and then rinse it with cold water. Wash your clothes as you normally would. Stick with the clear, colorless Windex if you are removing stains from white or light clothing.
#2 Bug Spray
Did you know Windex can kill pesky bugs, too? The ingredients in the cleaning solution will quickly kill most household bugs, including ants, roaches, and spiders. Simply spray the bugs directly to kill them. Once the bugs are dead, you can spray the cleaned-up area with white vinegar to create a more lasting barrier.
#3 Pet Urine
Windex can also be used to remove pet urine stains from carpeting and upholstery. The key is to act quickly. Blot up as much of the urine as possible with a clean, dry cloth. Then, spray the area with Windex and blot again. Repeat this process until the stain is gone. You may need to use a steam cleaner to remove any lingering odors.
#4 Microfiber Upholstery
Microfiber is beautiful, but stains easily and can be super tough to clean. If you have microfiber furniture, keep a bottle of this blue magic cleaner on hand for spills. Simply spray the stain with Windex and blot with a clean cloth. Be sure to work in one direction. You may need to repeat this process a few times for tough stains, but it should eventually come out.
#5 Blood Stains
If you’re ever dealing with bloodstains, you know they can be tough to remove. Luckily, this cleaner can help. Simply spray the area with Windex and blot with a clean cloth. You may need to do this a few times, but the stain should eventually come out.
#6 Use as a Degreaser
Windex is the perfect solution for cleaning greasy cooktops, range hoods, and other areas that are prone to accumulate food preparation residue. Spray Windex on these surfaces, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe away with a cloth or paper towel.
#7 Clean Stainless Steel
Clean any and all stainless steel items using Windex. Simply spray Windex on the surface and wipe away with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. You’ll be amazed at how much brighter your stainless steel will look.
#8 Remove Candle Wax
If you have candle wax that’s stuck on something, and you can’t get it off, Windex can be your saving grace. Simply spray some Windex on the wax and let it sit for a few minutes. Once it’s had a chance to penetrate the wax, you will be able to easily wipe it away.
#9 Polish Silver
Use Windex to polish silver. Simply spray Windex on the surface of your silver and wipe away with a paper towel or microfiber cloth. You’ll be amazed at how much brighter your silver will look.
#10 Use Windex as an Acne Fighter
Did you know you can even use this miracle cleaner to fight acne? Dab a bit of Windex on a cotton ball and apply to any blemishes. The alcohol in the Windex will help to dry out the pimple and hopefully clear it up quickly. Don’t coat your entire face as it will cause your face to dry out. Just dab where needed.
#11 Move Heavy Appliances
This is probably one of the most creative ways to use Windex, but it actually works. Or, at least a lot of people swear by it. If you need to move a heavy appliance out of a tight space, you can liberally spray this miracle cleaner on the floor in front of whatever you need to move, and the appliance will easily scoot. Hardwood floors are ideal for this trick.
#12 Restore Vinyl Siding
If you have any old, faded vinyl siding, bring it back to life by spraying it with a liberal amount of Windex and wiping it down. It can take care of the siding on a smaller scale and is much cheaper than renting a pressure washer.
#13 Clean Your Grill
Grills tend to get caked with grease and food all season long. Give your grill a good cleaning using Windex. Just douse the grates in Windex and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a wire brush.
#14 Make Your Tiles Sparkle With Windex
Tired of looking at grimy tiles? Make them look new again by spraying them down with some Windex. First, spray the tires, then let it sit for about 5-minutes, wipe away any dirt and grime with a sponge, and finally rinse your tires with the hose.
Not only can you clean the tires, but Windex is a great way to clean your car’s interior as well because its formula isn’t greasy. However, avoid using it on the exterior of the car (aside from the tires). The ammonia base is too harsh for most paint jobs and window tinting.
#15 Remove Permanent Marker
If your kids have gotten a little too creative with permanent markers on the walls or furniture, don’t reach for the paint thinner just yet. You can use Windex to remove permanent marker stains from non-porous surfaces like metal, plastic, and glass. Simply spray the area and then wipe away with a cloth.
What Not To Use Windex On
You can’t use Windex on everything. It can damage some items and be toxic in other instances. Do not use Windex on:
- Granite, marble, or other natural stones
- Wood furniture
- Anything with bleach- This can release toxic chloramine gas causing serious lung damage, or death.
- Leather
- Plexiglass
- TVs
- Computer screens
Final Word
While there are many ways to use Windex, it’s important that you know what not to use it on as well. Be sure to stock up on this magical blue solution as part of your stockpile. It is sure to come in handy whether you are cleaning, wiping away smudges, or removing stains. Make sure you have an Emergency Cleaning Bucket with everything you need to have a clean home. Whether you use this cleaner or something else, it’s important to be prepared. May God Bless this world, Linda
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