Learn how to make DIY Natural Glass Cleaner at home. Homemade, non-toxic glass cleaner recipe using only 3 ingredients.

As an Amazon Associate I make a small commission at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure here.
Getting started with natural products in your home does not need to be expensive! In fact, it can be pretty darn cheap. If you are making your own household cleaners at home there is a good chance you will be saving a ton of money. With just a handful of natural ingredients you can make most products at home in just a few minutes for much less than you would spend at the store.
If you have vinegar on hand, you have what you need to make a basic surface cleaner or glass cleaner. At first, that was my go to when it came to cleaning any glass surfaces. Somewhere along the way several years ago, someone mentioned to me that combining vinegar, alcohol, and corn starch, yes corn starch, made for the best glass cleaner. I was skeptical at best, but after trying this recipe many years ago I never looked back. This recipe will truly leave your mirrors, windows, and other glass surfaces completely streak free and sparkling. Even better is that it is completely free of harsh chemicals that can be damaging to our health.
When I first heard of this concept, I didn’t know where exactly it originated. From what I can tell, it looks like the recipe was originally posted on Crunchy Betty. The recipe I have used for several years now has slightly different measurements, but it is exactly the same concept highlighting the use of 3 ingredients.
Why Do You Use Vinegar, Alcohol And Corn Starch
The three main ingredients in this glass cleaner recipe work together to give streak free, shiny results. Vinegar is a powerhouse when it comes to cutting grease. Alcohol speeds up the drying time, therefore reducing streaking. The corn starch is likely the most surprising ingredient on the list. It also helps to reduce streaking. While it isn’t essential, the addition of lemon essential oil helps to cut through any grime on your windows or mirrors for a clean finish.
What You Need To Make Natural Glass Cleaner
To make this glass cleaner you only need a few ingredients that you likely have laying around your home! You will need the following ingredients to make this recipe.
Filtered Water
Lemon Essential Oil (optional)

How To Make Natural Glass Cleaner
To make homemade glass cleaner, simply combine all ingredients in a spray bottle and shake it together well. While it isn’t necessary, I find that using a funnel helps to avoid making a huge mess.
Start by adding 3 tablespoons each of vinegar and rubbing alcohol to the base of the spray bottle. Next, add in 1/2 a tablespoon of corn starch. Top off with filtered water. I typically use a 16 oz spray bottle, in which case I don’t measure the water. If you are using a larger sized spray bottle, add 1 1/2 cups of filtered water for the correct ratio. Lastly, add in 10 drops of lemon essential oil if using. Secure the spray nozzle back in place and shake well before using.
The corn starch will settle between uses, just shake it well to redistribute.
Substitutions In DIY Glass Cleaner
The three main ingredients in this homemade glass cleaner recipe work together which is what makes it so effective.
The cornstarch and the rubbing alcohol are what provides a streak free finish. If you don’t have cornstarch on hand, I would increase the rubbing alcohol and vinegar content and omit the cornstarch. I have not tried to make a glass cleaner with just vinegar, filtered water, and corn starch, so I can’t speak to the
You can make a simple homemade glass cleaner with just vinegar, if that is all that you have on hand. Just combine half filtered water and half white vinegar in a spray bottle. Before experimenting with the 3 ingredient recipe several years ago, this vinegar based option was my go-to glass cleaning spray.
Non-Toxic Glass Cleaner

Learn how to make Toxin Free Glass Cleaner at home. Natural, non-toxic glass cleaner recipe using only 3 ingredients.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp vinegar
- 3 tbsp rubbing alcohol
- 1/2 tbsp corn starch
- 10 drops lemon essential oil (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups filtered water
- 16 oz/500 ml spray bottle
Instructions
- Using a funnel, add the vinegar, rubbing alcohol, and corn starch to the spray bottle.
- Top with filtered water.
- Add lemon essential oil and shake well.
Notes
I use a 16 oz/500 ml spray bottle and typically won't measure the water. Instead I just fill it to the top. If using a larger sized spray bottle, make sure to measure the water so the ratios are correct.
Pin It For Later

Other Posts You Will Love
Homemade Natural Laundry Detergent
Hi,
Can arrowroot be used instead of cornstarch? We do not buy cornstarch due to corn allergies.
Thanks!
Leah
Hi Leah, I haven’t tried this with arrowroot. Next time I make up a batch I will have to see how it works.