The Wonders of Windex: 6 Things You Didn't Know It Can Do
You know that familiar blue window cleanser 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.
1. Clean Microfiber Upholstery
photo: amazon.com
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.
Related: How To: Clean a Microfiber Sofa
2. Banish Laundry Stains
photo: shutterstock.com
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.
Related: 9 Smart Hacks for Laundry Day
3. Zap Pesky Bugs
photo: shutterstock.com
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.
Related: Pests, Be Gone! 10 Natural Ways to Make Your Home Critter-Free
4. Say Goodbye to Grease
photo: shutterstock.com
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.
Related: How To: Clean EVERYTHING
5. Cleanse the Kids’ Stuff
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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!
Related: Over a Dozen Things You Didn’t Know You Could Clean in the Dishwasher
6. Freshen Your Front Porch
photo: zillow.com
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.
—Donna Boyle Schwartz
