People Are Using Mouthwash To Clean Glass But Does It Work?

Finding the best way to clean your windows for a streak-free finish when you run out of glass cleaner can be difficult, but some people swear that mouthwash is perfect for cleaning glass in a pinch. Several online blogs, cleaning companies, and even dental offices have claimed that mouthwash can clean windows, mirrors, screens, and other types of glass to get a perfect shine with no streaks or smudges left behind. While this method is sometimes recommended when you're out of options, there doesn't seem to be any scientific research to support mouthwash as a glass cleaner.

Mouthwash is likely suggested as a glass cleaner because of the alcohol some versions contain. Though there haven't been specific studies proving that this glass cleaning method is effective, it could be an interesting experiment to test for yourself the next time your Windex bottle is suddenly empty. There's a chance this hack could make cleaning your mirrors so much easier, but there's no guarantee.

Though there's not much empirical evidence to support that mouthwash can clean glass, it is recommended by a variety of online sources. The reason this method might be used could be because both commercial glass cleaners and mouthwashes contain some sort of alcohol. For example, the original Windex formula lists isopropanolamine, an amino alcohol, as a cleaning agent that can dissolve oils and other residues. Other glass cleaners may have different alcohols, such as isopropyl alcohol, instead. Listerine and other mouthwash brands also contain alcohol as an ingredient to help get rid of plaque.

Because alcohol can act as a solvent, it may be able to help rid your windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces of dirt and smudges. However, it's unclear how the other ingredients in the oral hygiene product would affect the shine. Additionally, one dental company claims that mouthwash can clean windows, but that some types might leave it looking streaky. This could be an interesting theory to test for yourself in a pinch, though you may end up needing to clean your windows again.

For the curious readers who are dying to know if mouthwash is really the secret to dazzling clean windows, try out this method and see how it works for you. First, check that your mouthwash contains some sort of alcohol, as alcohol-free versions may not work at all. One way to implement this hack is to moisten a cleaning cloth and add a small amount of your mouthwash. Now, wipe your window, mirror, or other glass surface with the mouthwash and dry with another rag. To be safe, try starting with a very small spot along the edge of the glass to ensure there are no negative effects.

Another method is to combine equal parts water and mouthwash in a spray bottle. Spritz the solution onto your glass and wipe it away. For electronic screens, put a small amount of the mouthwash onto a cloth and carefully rub it over smudges or finger marks before drying.