How To Make Homemade Windshield Washer Fluid

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Having a clear windshield is essential for safe driving. Whether you’re facing insects on a summer road trip or road salt in the winter, having a reliable windshield washer fluid can make all the difference. While there are numerous commercial options available, making your own homemade windshield washer fluid can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative.

By creating your own windshield washer fluid, you have control over the ingredients and can ensure that it is safe for your car and the environment. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make with ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen or garage.

In this article, we will explore a simple method for creating homemade windshield washer fluid that will keep your windshield clean and your driving experience clear.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the method for making homemade windshield washer fluid, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need:

1. Water – 2 cups
2. Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) – 1 cup
3. Liquid dish soap – 1 tablespoon
4. Glass cleaner (optional) – 1 tablespoon
5. Essential oil (optional) – a few drops

These ingredients are readily available and can be found in most households. If you don’t have glass cleaner or essential oil on hand, don’t worry. They are optional ingredients that can enhance the cleaning power and aroma of the windshield washer fluid.

Now that you have gathered your ingredients, let’s move on to the method for making your own homemade windshield washer fluid.

Method

Now that you have gathered the ingredients, it’s time to combine them and create your homemade windshield washer fluid. Follow these simple steps:

1. In a clean container, pour 2 cups of water.
2. Add 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to the water. This ingredient helps to remove dirt, grime, and greasy residues from your windshield.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap to the mixture. The dish soap acts as a surfactant, helping to break down and dissolve any stubborn dirt or debris.
4. If you have glass cleaner available, you can add 1 tablespoon to the mixture. This will provide additional cleaning power and leave your windshield sparkling.
5. If desired, add a few drops of essential oil of your choice. This not only adds a pleasant fragrance to the windshield washer fluid but can also provide antibacterial properties.
6. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly combined.
7. Transfer the homemade windshield washer fluid into a clean, empty container. A plastic squeeze bottle or an old windshield washer fluid container works well.

And that’s it! Your homemade windshield washer fluid is now ready to use. Simply pour it into the reservoir of your car’s windshield washer system and use as you would with any commercial washer fluid. Remember to use the fluid sparingly and avoid overusing to prevent streaks on your windshield.

Now, let’s move on to some tips and safety precautions to consider when using homemade windshield washer fluid.

Mix 1 gallon of water with 1 tablespoon of dish soap and 1/2 cup of ammonia for a homemade windshield washer fluid. Add a few drops of blue food coloring for visibility.

Tips and Safety Precautions

While making and using homemade windshield washer fluid is generally safe and cost-effective, it’s important to keep a few tips and safety precautions in mind:

1. Test compatibility: Before using homemade windshield washer fluid, make sure it is compatible with your car’s windshield washer system. Some vehicles require specific types of fluid, so check your car’s manual or consult with a mechanic if you are unsure.
2. Avoid freezing: If you live in a cold climate, ensure that the homemade washer fluid does not freeze during winter. Adding a small amount of antifreeze can help prevent freezing and ensure optimum performance even in freezing temperatures.
3. Proper dilution: If you find the homemade washer fluid to be too strong or causing streaks on your windshield, you can dilute it with water to achieve the desired consistency. Start with small amounts of water and test until you find the ideal ratio for your car.
4. Regular maintenance: Keep your windshield washer system clean by periodically flushing it with water or using a commercial windshield cleaner designed specifically for the washer system. This will help prevent clogs and ensure optimal performance.
5. Safety goggles and gloves: When handling isopropyl alcohol or any cleaning products, it’s a good idea to wear safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from irritation or potential allergic reactions.
6. Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store the homemade windshield washer fluid in a safe place, away from the reach of children and pets. Although the ingredients used are generally safe, it’s best to exercise caution.

Following these tips and safety precautions will help you make and use homemade windshield washer fluid effectively and safely.

Now it’s time to conclude our guide on how to make homemade windshield washer fluid.

Conclusion

Creating your own homemade windshield washer fluid is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to commercial options. With just a few simple ingredients that you may already have at home, you can make a solution that effectively cleans your windshield and ensures clear visibility while driving.

By making your own windshield washer fluid, you have control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize the formula to suit your preferences and needs. Plus, it’s a fun and satisfying DIY project that can save you money in the long run.

Remember to test the compatibility of the homemade washer fluid with your car’s windshield washer system and make any necessary adjustments to achieve optimal performance. Regular maintenance and proper dilution will help ensure that your homemade fluid works effectively and does not cause streaks or clogs.

As with any cleaning product, it’s important to follow safety precautions, such as wearing goggles and gloves when handling isopropyl alcohol or cleaning products. Always store the homemade washer fluid out of reach of children and pets.

So why not give it a try? Experiment with different essential oils to add a pleasant fragrance, or adjust the formula based on your needs. Making homemade windshield washer fluid is a simple and rewarding way to keep your windshield clean, your driving experience clear, and the environment happy.

Now it’s time to grab your ingredients, mix them together, and hit the road with a clean and spotless windshield.

Safe travels!