12 Clever Ways to Put Windex to Work Beyond Windows and Mirrors

Windex is handy for more than just cleaning windows and mirrors. From tackling everyday smudges to freshening up surfaces around the house, you can use that bottle in plenty of other ways. Here are 12 uses worth considering.

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Remove Crayon Marks From Painted Walls

If your little artist has left crayon marks on the wall, a small amount of Windex on a soft cloth may help lift them from some washable paint finishes. Test a hidden spot first, rub gently, and wipe away any remaining cleaner with a damp cloth.

Clean Compatible Kitchen Surfaces

Windex may help remove fingerprints and light grime from certain laminate countertops and cool stovetops, as long as the manufacturer approves its use. Spray a little onto a cloth rather than directly onto the surface, and choose a cleaner made for the material when dealing with natural stone, specialty finishes, or heavy grease.

Loosen Sticky Sticker Residue

Peeling a price tag off a jar or other hard surface can leave a stubborn patch of adhesive behind. On a compatible surface, try a little Windex and a soft cloth to loosen the residue, then gently lift any remaining bits with a plastic scraper.

Related: 17 Unique Ways to Remove Sticker Residue From Glass

Tackle Small Carpet Stains

A fresh spill is easier to deal with before it settles into the carpet fibers. Some Windex formulas may help with certain stains, but test a hidden area first, apply a small amount to a cloth rather than soaking the carpet, and use a carpet-specific cleaner for delicate materials.

Freshen Up Certain Jewelry

Some hard, nonporous jewelry surfaces can collect fingerprints and grime that dull their appearance. Only use Windex if the jeweler or manufacturer confirms it’s suitable for the piece, and keep it away from pearls, opals, porous stones, plated finishes, and delicate settings.

Tackle Everyday Bathroom Grime

Fingerprints on faucets and light residue on glass shower doors can make a bathroom look less clean than it is. If the finishes are compatible with your Windex formula, wipe them with a lightly dampened cloth, but use a suitable bathroom cleaner for stubborn soap scum or mineral buildup.

Related: 10 Things Hiding in Your Bathroom Cabinets That You Should Throw Away

Wipe Down Compatible Car Interior Surfaces

Hard plastic and vinyl areas inside a car can collect fingerprints and dust, particularly around frequently touched controls. If your vehicle’s care instructions allow it, apply a little cleaner to a microfiber cloth rather than spraying the dashboard directly, and avoid screens, leather, and electronic openings.

Freshen Up Glazed Ceramic Tile

Glazed ceramic tile can start looking dull when dust, fingerprints, and light grime build up on the surface. Windex may be useful for a quick wipe on compatible tile, but check the cleaning guidance before using it near grout, natural stone, unglazed tile, or specialty finishes.

Lift Small, Fresh Paint Splatters

A painting project can leave tiny spots on nearby glass or other smooth surfaces, even when you’ve been careful with the drop cloths. On a surface approved for Windex, a small amount may help loosen a fresh splatter, but check the finish before cleaning and use a suitable plastic scraper for paint that has already dried.

Clean Traditional Whiteboards

After weeks of writing and erasing, a whiteboard can develop a hazy layer of marker residue. A little Windex on a soft cloth may help clean some traditional nonporous boards, provided the manufacturer allows it, but specialty coated boards may require their own cleaning products.

Clean Glass Tables and Shelves

Glass coffee tables and display shelves can show every fingerprint, smudge, and speck of dust. Remove any items sitting on them, then wipe the glass with Windex and a clean microfiber cloth, keeping the cleaner away from nearby wood, stone, and other sensitive materials.

Freshen Up Glass Cabinets and Light Fixtures

Glass cabinet doors and light shades can collect fingerprints and dust, making them look dull. Apply Windex to a cloth rather than spraying around cabinet frames or electrical fittings, and turn off lights and let fixtures cool completely before cleaning any glass parts the manufacturer says are safe to clean this way.

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