How to clean glass and mirrors to make them shine and without leaving streaks

How to Clean Glass and Mirrors to Make Them Shine — Streak-Free Every Time!

Few things ruin a spotless room like streaky mirrors or cloudy windows. Whether it’s bathroom mirrors, glass tables, or floor-to-ceiling windows, cleaning glass surfaces without leaving streaks can feel like a losing battle. But with the right technique and tools, you can get a crystal-clear, streak-free shine in just minutes.

No fancy sprays or expensive gadgets needed — just a smart approach, the right cloth, and maybe a touch of vinegar magic.

Why Do Streaks Happen?

Streaks are often caused by:

Using too much cleaner
Wiping with the wrong type of cloth
Dirty water or cloths that leave residue behind
Letting cleaner dry before you’ve wiped it off completely

Luckily, all of these problems are easy to fix.

What You’ll Need

White vinegar or rubbing alcohol
Water
Spray bottle
Microfiber cloths (or lint-free cotton cloths)
Optional: a squeegee for large windows or shower glass

Homemade Glass Cleaner Recipe

This simple solution cuts through grime and leaves a spotless shine:

Ingredients:

1 part white vinegar or rubbing alcohol
1 part distilled water
Optional: a few drops of lemon essential oil for fragrance

Instructions:

Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle.
Shake before each use.
Spray lightly on the glass surface.

Vinegar dissolves mineral deposits and film, while alcohol helps the glass dry faster without streaks.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Method

Step 1: Dust First

Wipe down the surface with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust and debris. This prevents smearing dirt around.

Step 2: Spray Lightly

Apply a light mist of your glass cleaner. Don’t over-saturate — a little goes a long way.

Step 3: Wipe with Microfiber

Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe in an “S” pattern from top to bottom. Avoid circular motions — they tend to spread the dirt.

Step 4: Buff Dry

Flip the cloth to a dry side and buff the glass to remove an