DIY Window & Glass Cleaner for a Fresh, Streak-Free Shine

Description

Reviewed by: Kacie La

Jul 3nd, 2026 | 4 minute read

Do you have windows or mirrors that always smudge no matter how much you wipe? I hear you! Store-bought sprays often leave streaks or have strong, chemical smells that make cleaning feel unpleasant. Why not make your own Window & Glass Cleaner like I have?

With just a few simple ingredients like vinegar, witch hazel extract, and peppermint and tea tree essential oils, you too can create a natural cleaner that works beautifully and smells refreshing.

This recipe is quick, affordable, and made entirely from ingredients you might already have at home. It helps remove dirt and fingerprints while leaving windows and mirrors sparkling clear. The cool, minty scent from peppermint and tea tree oils also gives the space a clean, energising feel that turns everyday cleaning into something surprisingly enjoyable.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Recipe

Prep Summary
What you will need
Method

Benefits of DIY Window & Glass Cleaner

Safe Use and Warnings

FAQ's

RECIPE

PREP SUMMARY

LEVEL

Beginner

TIME

10 minutes

YIELD

1 spray bottle (610ml)

What you will need

• 1 cup distilled water: This forms the base of the cleaner, helping dilute the other ingredients evenly. Distilled or demineralised water is always better than tap water as it doesn't contain naturally occurring minerals and industrial chemicals that could leave spots on the glass. A 2L bottle of demineralised water can be bought at your local supermarket, usually in the laundry aisle, for as low as a gold coin (at the time of writing) or your local automotive retailer.

• 1 cup witch hazel extract: Acts as a natural carrier that helps the essential oils mix smoothly with the water. I’ve noticed that if I use too much at once, the scent can be slightly strong or leave a faint film on delicate glass, so I stick to the recommended amount. It also helps the essential oils last longer on glass surfaces, giving a fresh, clean aroma.

• 1/2 cup vinegar: Helps cut through grease, fingerprints, and smudges, leaving your glass sparkling clear without streaks. At first, the smell might be a little strong or sharp. Don’t worry, once it is combined with the essential oils, the aroma becomes fresh and pleasant. That is why I recommend adding the vinegar last when mixing, so you do not have to smell it while preparing the cleaner.

• 15 drops peppermint essential oil: Adds a crisp, refreshing scent that makes cleaning more enjoyable. I love the cool, minty aroma because it makes the space feel fresh and energised.

• 15 drops tea tree essential oil: Known for its natural cleansing properties, tea tree oil helps lift dirt while adding a subtle, clean fragrance to your home. I’ve found that shaking the bottle before each use ensures the oils do not settle and keeps the scent consistent every time.

Method

Pour the distilled water and witch hazel extract into a clean spray bottle. I like to use a reused bottle, and of course I make sure to clean and dry it thoroughly before starting this process. Any spray bottle will work, and it is even better if you can reuse one to reduce waste.

Add the peppermint and tea tree essential oils, then the vinegar last to avoid the initial strong smell while mixing. Since I don’t like the smell of pure vinegar, I immediately seal or cover the bottle after adding it and so that I won’t accidentally spill it over. Shake the bottle gently but thoroughly to blend all the ingredients evenly.

Spray the cleaner lightly onto windows, mirrors, or any glass surface. Let it sit for a few moments to help loosen any dirt or fingerprints. Then wipe it clean with a soft, lint-free cloth for a smooth, polished finish. I’ve found that using gentle, circular motions helps remove any lingering smudges and keeps the glass sparkling.

Personal tip: I discovered that using a microfibre cloth makes a huge difference compared to regular cloths. The first time I tried it while cleaning with my DIY Window & Glass Cleaner, I noticed the glass felt smoother and looked much clearer, with no streaks or lint left behind. It made cleaning windows and mirrors feel faster and much more satisfying. Based on that experience, I think it’s a good investment to buy a microfibre cloth if you clean glass surfaces regularly.

NOTE: This cleaner contains distilled or demineralised water and no preservatives, discard any leftover mixture after one week to keep it fresh and safe for use.

Benefits of DIY Window & Glass Cleaner

I really enjoy making my own DIY Window & Glass Cleaner. It makes cleaning glass surfaces feel easier and more satisfying, and it’s comforting to know exactly what is in it. Here are the key benefits:

✔ Clear and sparkling glass - Keeps windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces looking clear and bright without the streaks often left by commercial sprays.
✔ Natural and gentle - Made with distilled water and essential oils, it is safe for everyday use and kinder on surfaces than harsh chemical cleaners.
✔ Evenly blended mixture - Witch hazel extract helps the ingredients mix smoothly, ensuring the essential oils distribute evenly for a consistent cleaning experience.
✔ Refreshing aroma - Peppermint essential oil gives a crisp, cool scent, while tea tree essential oil adds an earthy, uplifting note that makes cleaning feel enjoyable.
✔ Customisable scent - You can try other essential oils like lemon for a bright, citrusy touch or eucalyptus for a fresh, herbal twist.
✔ Cost-effective and practical - Uses simple ingredients you may already have at home, helping reduce waste and save money.
✔ Convenient for regular use - Perfect for quick touch-ups on mirrors, windows, and glass surfaces throughout the house.

Safe Use and Warnings

When preparing and using this DIY Window & Glass Cleaner, it is important to handle each ingredient correctly to ensure safe and practical use:

• Distilled Water: This serves as the base of the DIY Window & Glass Cleaner spray, helping to dilute and evenly distribute the other ingredients. Using distilled water instead of regular tap water helps minimise impurities that could leave residue on surfaces. Store the purified water in a sealed container, and keep the finished mixture in a cool, shaded place.

• Vinegar: Vinegar is a handy ingredient for cutting through grease and helping glass surfaces look clear. Avoid using it on stone surfaces such as marble, granite, or limestone, as its acidity can dull the finish or cause etching over time. Due to its strong smell, ensure the area is well-ventilated while cleaning.

• Witch Hazel Extract: Helps the essential oils blend evenly with the water and extends the scent on glass surfaces. I recommend storing it in a tightly sealed bottle and keeping it away from direct sunlight to maintain its effectiveness.

• Peppermint Essential Oil: It delivers a fresh, invigorating scent. Avoid spraying near your eyes or applying directly to the skin to prevent irritation. If contact with the eyes occurs, rinse thoroughly with clean water. Store in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality and effectiveness.

• Tea Tree Essential Oil: Provides a clean, natural fragrance and is widely used in home and beauty products for its refreshing aroma. Always dilute before applying to the skin, as using it undiluted may cause irritation. Avoid contact with eyes and do not ingest. Store in a safe place away from heat, preferably in a cool, shaded area. For convenience and to maintain quality, transfer to smaller containers as needed.

IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS: Be sure to mark your homemade items well and keep them in closed containers out of the sun. Store all items away from kids and animals. Stop using the product right away if it comes into contact with your skin and your skin gets irritated.

DISCLAIMER: This information is intended for teaching purposes only and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. This recipe is not meant to be used to treat conditions or be ingested. Be sure to test a small area of skin before using, and seek medical advice if you experience an allergic reaction or have health issues. Use these recipes at your own discretion.