You already know Windex is great for cleaning windows, now learn the 10 other ways you can use the blue spray cleaner around the house.
Put Some Windex On It
You know that familiar blue window cleaner that we all grew up using? Well, it can do lot more than just clean windows. Whether you’re looking to bust stains or zap bugs, Windex might just be the go-to tool for your household chore. So roll up your sleeves, pull on your plastic gloves—so the combination of ammonia and alcohol in the cleaning solution doesn’t irritate or burn sensitive skin—and make your blue bottle earn its keep in the cleaning closet.
Make Your Jewelry Sparkle
Why waste money on pricey jewelry cleaner when Windex can do the job? Brighten metal and gemstone jewelry by simply spraying the piece with Windex and scrubbing lightly with a toothbrush. Then rinse with cool water and wear. (Just don’t try this trick on soft, porous jewelry, like opals, turquoise, pearls, shell, or coral—ammonia-based cleaners are a no-no.)
Banish Laundry Stains
Ketchup, tomato sauce, and red wine are the scourge of many shirts. As long as you’re not dealing with delicate silk fabrics, lightly spray the stain with Windex and let sit for 15 minutes. Blot with a clean cloth, rinse with cold water, and wash as recommended. For best results, use the uncolored version of Windex.
Zap Pesky Bugs
Pests bugging you? Spray a bit of Windex on them and they’ll curl up and die within minutes. Don’t try this on bees or wasps, however—it doesn’t work instantly, and you might get stung. And, you might also try using it as an insect repellent: spray along the edges of a door or window to keep bugs at bay.
Wash the Car
Windex is a great cleaner for inside your car, getting rid of built-up gunk on windows, dashboards, steering wheel, and upholstery. It’s non-greasy, so it won’t leave everything slippery nor damage the upholstery and faux wood surfaces. While you’re at it, you can use Windex to clean dead bugs and tree sap from the surface of your car: Just spray, let sit for a few minutes, and then wipe clean.
Say Goodbye to Grease
An extremely effective degreaser, Windex can soften built-up grease throughout the kitchen, especially on hard-to-clean range hoods, fans, and light fixtures. Spray down the surface liberally, let stand for 10 minutes, and then wipe it up. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water to eliminate any cleanser residue on food preparation surfaces.
Keep Counters Clean
Countertop, glass cook top, tile, and grout grime won’t stand a chance against Windex. The product works on granite, marble, and laminate countertops, and—best of all—won’t erode or damage grout. No need to even switch cleansers when you switch to wiping down enamel and stainless steel appliances.
Cleanse the Kids’ Stuff
Let’s face it: Children’s toys and play sets can get downright disgusting over time, with accumulated food messes, dirt, and the occasional spit-up. Give the items a quick mist with Windex, wipe each piece thoroughly, and rinse with plain water. All better!
Freshen Your Front Porch
Patio furniture can start to look a bit grungy after months of being exposed to the elements. This easy clean comes in a blue bottle: Windex cleans all types of outdoor furniture, including aluminum, resin, plastic, and glass pieces. Just lightly mist the surface, let stand for a few minutes, and wipe clean.
Clear Up Crystal
Decorative crystal and cut glass pieces look lovely sitting on the shelf, but can easily become a catchall for dust. Spray each piece lightly with Windex and wipe carefully with a clean cloth—and a cotton swab for smaller crevices—to restore to a sparkling shine. Don’t use on painted or tinted pieces, however, as this may remove the pigment.
Clean Microfiber Upholstery
Synthetic microfiber is soft, durable, and attractive…but can be difficult to keep clean. Even water can leave unsightly spots on microfiber upholstery! But a spritz of Windex can work wonders. Simply spray the surface lightly—careful not to soak the fibers—then brush very gently with a soft-bristled scrub brush, working in the same direction. Tough stains might require a second application.
