Our favorite, the Invisible Glass Cleaner Spray, is ammonia-free, works well on glass, mirrors, and chrome, and dries clean and clear. Here are the best glass cleaners for sprucing up your windows, car, and more. This glass cleaner lives up to its name, cleaning glass surfaces so well that they look practically invisible. In addition to targeting dirt, grime, and streaks, it also makes short work of removing toothpaste splatter, smoke haze, and fingerprints. It’s safe for windows, glass cooktops, mirrors, and chrome, it doesn’t contain ammonia (although its formula is synthetic chemical-based), and it’s free of overpowering scents and dyes. This cleaner doesn’t leave behind residue or streaks—two of the most common complaints with other products we’ve tested over the years— and is both affordable and easy to find online and at many stores, checking off all the boxes that many people look for in a glass cleaner. Price at time of publish: $12 Price at time of publish: $3 Price at time of publish: $7 Price at time of publish: $2 Notably, this all-purpose cleaner is very versatile, though. It can be used on bathroom counters, mirrors, and sinks. Puracy also offers a concentrated solution that you can use to refill reusable cleaning bottles, cutting down on plastic waste. Price at time of publish: $14 Price at time of publish: $16 Price at time of publish: $17 Price at time of publish: $10 Price at time of publish: $4 Price at time of publish: $11 If you use a glass cleaner in an enclosed space or are sensitive to chemical smells and fragrances, naturally scented or unscented products are available. Cleaners that don’t contain artificial dyes will often leave less (or no) residue behind.
Ingredients
Some glass cleaners contain synthetic chemicals and ammonia—known commercially as solvents and surfactants—which can irritate skin, eyes, and nose. Natural and non-toxic glass cleaners use natural ingredients that are often plant-based and have natural fragrances, which are sometimes less effective at cleaning filthy windows or baked-on grime. If you have young children or pets, keep your cleaning products in the garage, a locked cabinet, or another area of your home that’s not easily accessible. You can always try making a homemade glass cleaner if you prefer. Vinegar is a condiment that can double as a cleaning agent—if you’re not a fan of the acidic smell, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a customized scent.
Scent
A lot of cleaning products contain fragrances, whether natural or synthetic. Some enjoy the refreshing smell, while others are sensitive to scented solutions. Even unscented glass cleaners typically have a mild odor when applied, which will usually dissipate quickly.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Begley, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. Katie personally tested multiple glass cleaners to find the best ones for each use. If you use glass cleaner to sanitize any area that is used for food preparation or cooking, make sure to rinse the surface well. The Environmental Working Group provides a guide to cleaning products to help consumers make an informed decision.
