Save money and go green with homemade windshield washer fluid

We all know the frustration of running out of windshield washer fluid at the most inconvenient times. Fortunately, creating your own mix at home is easier than you might think. In this article, we will guide you through the process step-by-step.

Homemade windshield washer fluid is an economical and eco-friendly solution. The cost of purchasing the ingredients is significantly lower than buying ready-made products from stores—winter fluid can cost up to $12 for 1.3 gallons. Additionally, by making the fluid at home, you avoid harmful chemicals found in commercial fluids and reduce the amount of plastic waste by reusing containers.

To make homemade windshield washer fluid, you only need a few readily available ingredients. The first is demineralized water, free from impurities and won't leave streaks on your windows.

The next ingredient is dish soap, which is necessary for its cleaning properties. You'll also need vinegar, which acts as a preservative and prevents mold formation. Lastly, isopropyl alcohol is crucial to ensure the fluid doesn't freeze in low temperatures.

Before you start mixing, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. You'll need 0.8 gallons of demineralized water, 1 tablespoon of dish soap, 3.4 ounces of vinegar, and 8.5 ounces of isopropyl alcohol. Demineralized water can also be replaced with filtered water.

First, pour the water into a large container as a base. Then add the dish soap and vinegar, mixing thoroughly. Finally, add the isopropyl alcohol quickly to prevent evaporation. Your mixture is now ready to use.

Methylated spirits are a popular substitute for isopropyl alcohol. They can be used instead of isopropyl alcohol while maintaining the same proportions. Methylated spirits prevent freezing and provide similar degreasing and cleaning properties.

Glycerin is an additional ingredient you can add to homemade windshield washer fluid. Adding one tablespoon of glycerin can help keep windows less dirty by forming a protective layer on the surface. You can also use fabric softener, which contains glycerin.

Remember to use the mix carefully. Isopropyl alcohol is flammable, and vinegar, while safe, can irritate the skin and eyes. Wear protective gloves when mixing ingredients.

To keep your windows in top condition, regularly clean your car's windshield wipers. Use homemade windshield washer fluid in the correct proportions and store it in a safe, airtight container.