DIY Windshield Washer Fluid: Practical and Cost-Effective Solution for Cleaning Front Car Glass

by Snezhana Besarabova

Your windshield washer fluid is essential for maintaining clear visibility while driving your car. It helps to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from the front window of the vehicle, ensuring a safer and smoother voyage. You might wonder if it’s possible to make your own homemade substitute of this cleaning fluid. To create its DIY version is not only possible, but it’s practical and rather more cost-effective solution. It’s so simple to be made, and will take you only minutes. With its readily available ingredients, you’ll have an effective cleaning agent, anytime when you need it. By doing this, you not only save money, but also have the flexibility to customize the solution according to your specific needs. We’ll show you now some DIY windshield washer fluid recipes, which you’ll probably find useful for your car during the warm months, as well as for winter.

Can I Make My Own Windshield Washer Fluid?

diy windshield washer fluid recipe isopropyl alcohol

Creating your own DIY windshield washer fluid requires a few basic ingredients that are easily obtainable. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own high effective cleaning solution for your front car glass:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (475 ml) distilled water
  • 1 cup (235 ml) isopropyl alcohol
  • 1 tbsp liquid dish soap
  • A few drops of blue food coloring (optional: for visibility)

How to make:

  1. Take a clean container: You may use an empty windshield washer fluid reservoir instead.
  2. Pour the distilled water: Pour it in the container.
  3. Add the isopropyl alcohol: Mix it with the water.
  4. Pour the liquid dish soap: Then ensure it is well combined.
  5. Mix in a few drops of blue food coloring: If you wish to enhance visibility.
  6. Slightly stir the mixture: Mix until all the ingredients are entirely blended.
  7. Use the DIY windshield washer: Pour it into your vehicle’s reservoir.

Easy to Prepare DIY Windshield Washer Fluid for Car Options

diy windshield washer fluid that won't freeze for winter months

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While the DIY windshield washer fluid recipe with isopropyl alcohol and soap is an effective homemade cleaning solution, there are other alternatives that may be suitable for you depending on the situation. Here are a few additional, easy to prepare options for your front car glass:

Vinegar Cleaner

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and distilled water. This solution helps to remove stubborn stains and grime from the windshield. However, it does have a pungent smell that may not be desirable for everyone.

Ammonia Washer

Combine 1 cup (235 ml) of household ammonia with 3 cups (710 ml) of distilled water. This mixture can effectively remove grease and grime from your front car glass. However, be cautious when using ammonia, as it can be harmful if inhaled.

Solution with Rubbing Alcohol

Mix 1 cup (235 ml) of rubbing alcohol with 1 cup (235 ml) of distilled water. This solution can be used as an alternative to the isopropyl alcohol-based recipe. It helps to clean the front car glass effectively while preventing freezing in colder climates.

When choosing the best DIY windshield washer fluid for your needs, consider factors such as effectiveness, availability of ingredients, and personal preferences regarding the scent and safety of your solution.

Read also: Vomit in the Car: How to Remove Unpleasant Odors and Residues from the Interior of the Vehicle?

Homemade Windshield Washer Fluid for Cold Weather

diy windshield washer fluid with vinegar and dish soap

Driving in cold weather conditions is a challenge, and ensuring a clear and ice-free front car glass is crucial for safety. You can prepare your DIY windshield washer fluid that is specifically designed for cold weather to combat freezing temperatures. Here’s a recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (475 ml) distilled water
  • 1 cup (235 ml)  isopropyl alcohol
  • 1 tbsp liquid dish soap
  • 1/2 cup (118 ml) rubbing alcohol
  • 1/2 cup (118 ml) ethylene glycol/propylene glycol
  • A few drops of blue food coloring (optional: for visibility)

How to make:

  1. Take an empty windshield washer reservoir: You may use any other clean container instead.
  2. Pour the distilled water into the reservoir or container.
  3. Add the isopropyl alcohol and the rubbing alcohol: Mix them in the water.
  4. Mix in 1 tbsp of liquid dish soap: Combine it well to the mixture.
  5. Add the ethylene glycol and propylene glycol: These substances are antifreeze agents and prevent freezing in low temperatures.
  6. Include a few drops of blue food coloring: (optional, to enhance visibility).
  7. Slightly stir the mixture: Then all the ingredients should be thoroughly blended.
  8. Pour the windshield washer: You should fill your car’s reservoir with the fluid.

This recipe for cold weather combines the benefits of isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol to prevent freezing. The inclusion of these two substances maintains a lower freezing point, allowing the fluid to remain effective even in sub-zero temperatures.

homemade windshield washer fluid for cold weather

Whether you opt for the provided recipes or explore other homemade alternatives, maintaining a clear and clean windshield is now within your grasp.

Read also: Can I Wash My Car Mats in the Washing Machine? Learn How to Clean Car Mats the Easy Way!

And: Disinfect your car: How to protect yourself during the coronavirus crisis!



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