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Highly effective and easy to use, Windex took out the glass cleaner award as the best overall rated brand.
Not necessarily. Most all-purpose or multi-purpose surface sprays are generally fine to use on your windows. Using a multi-purpose cleaner is practical because you only need one product for a variety of cleaning jobs. However, window cleaners are specifically formulated for the task at hand. They have been designed to reduce streak marks and ensure that glass is shining and spotless.
If you want to use your window cleaner to clean something other than glass, be sure to do a spot test as some formulas can discolour and damage wooden and acrylic surfaces.
If you need to clean windows that are two storeys off the ground or higher, you should consider hiring a professional.
The cost of hiring a professional window cleaner depends on the following:
While they are generally safe to use, window cleaning liquids can be damaging if consumed. Window cleaners should be kept out of the reach of children and animals. Many window cleaner bottles are designed with an off switch or a lock function, that should be engaged when not in use.
Most window cleaners come with a material safety data sheet (MSDS), often available on a manufacturer's website. This contains information on the composition of the spray, dangerous substances in the formula and any potential health and safety impacts. MSDSs also provide suggestions on appropriate storage and disposal.
Ammonia is a colourless gas that dissolves into water and makes for an effective glass cleaner. Some people prefer to avoid it as there have been reports of people experiencing dry eyes, headaches, nausea and dizziness when using ammonia. However, it is generally considered to be safe if used correctly in ventilated areas.
If you are concerned about the dangers of ammonia, look for an ammonia-free formula or consider an all-natural alternative. Window cleaners should state clearly on the bottle whether or not they are ammonia-free.
Window cleaners come in two forms: sprays and wipes.
Some people prefer all-natural alternatives to window cleaning sprays. These natural cleaners are often made of a vinegar mix or a combination of vinegar and bicarbonate soda, both of which are biodegradable cleaning agents.
You can purchase all-natural cleaners in-store, online or mix them yourself with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. They are particularly helpful for people who struggle with allergies or are sensitive to chemical smells and substances. However, they may not produce the same streak-free results as a typical window cleaner and it may take some trial and error to find the best formula.
Window cleaners typically cost around $1.50 to $7 per spray bottle or packet of wipes. Typically, the larger the bottle or packet of wipes, the more expensive the cleaner will be. Also, name brands cost more than a generic product you could pick up from your local supermarket.
When purchasing a window cleaner consider the following features:
Some window cleaners are specifically designed for use on outdoor windows. If you're cleaning windows on second or third levels, look for a powerful spray gun attachment. If you need to clean windows higher than that, call a professional.
Most window cleaners have ergonomically designed trigger handles. If you're buying a window cleaner in-store, pick up a couple of different bottles to see which one feels best.
The bigger the bottle, the less often you'll have to rush out to buy window cleaner. If you have kids or pets and constantly find yourself wiping hand or paw prints off the windows, look for a large bottle. If you only clean from time to time, then a smaller bottle will be just fine.
Brightly coloured window sprays can be attractive to young children and even pets. Remember to store your window cleaner out of reach and perhaps out of sight.
If you or someone in your household has a sensitive nose, make sure to test out any cleaning spray in the store. If you don't mind the fragrance in the store, it should be fine to use on your windows.
Even the best sprays can leave behind streak marks, no matter how hard you try to avoid them. However, by using specific tools and techniques, you can have streak-free windows for good.
Here are our top tips to prevent streak marks when cleaning your windows:
If you're looking to clean your windows faster and keep them clean for longer, start comparing window cleaners today.
| Total Score | Overall rating | Value for Money | Ease of use | Odour or scent | Effectiveness | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Other | 8.24 | 4.39 | 4.70 | 4.63 | 4.15 | 4.65 |
| Windex | 8.05 | 4.46 | 4.04 | 4.50 | 4.02 | 4.35 |
| Simple Green | 7.94 | 4.38 | 4.19 | 4.29 | 4.24 | 4.38 |
| Karcher* | 7.85 | 4.38 | 3.50 | 4.50 | 4.00 | 4.50 |
| Scotts | 7.26 | 3.79 | 3.89 | 4.21 | 4.11 | 3.63 |
| Agar* | 7.23 | 3.80 | 3.80 | 4.00 | 4.00 | 3.80 |
| Sparkle Plenty* | 7.00 | 4.00 | 3.25 | 4.50 | 4.00 | 3.75 |
| Cove* | 6.71 | 3.50 | 4.00 | 3.50 | 3.50 | 3.88 |
| Euca* | 6.54 | 3.75 | 4.00 | 3.50 | 3.75 | 3.00 |
These are the top 6 window cleaners available in Australia today.
