A New Version of Windex

The SC Johnson Company has made me laugh. I know what you are thinking- I must be sniffing Windex again! That is not accurate, but I have been cleaning a lot lately, which could have lead to some secondhand fumes. The reason for my belly chuckle is the SC Johnson website, which has a special section for “Cleaning Tips.” (www.SCJohnson.com) A suggested cleaning method, is to use a old, CLEAN diaper with Windex for a high level of effectiveness. That’s a new one, and a method that I will not be using. In addition to this almost helpful hint from Heloise, their listing of ingredients in Windex is very secretive.

SC Johnson’s Windex must be guarded like Willy Wonka’s secret recipes. The bottle I own has none listed, and a bit of research on their website led to little information. According to SC Johnson, Windex No-Drip formula has detergents, alcohol, solvents, Ammonia-D, and fragrances in it. This leads one to be a bit concerned when related to possible allergic reactions, but the Poison Control Center is recommended for any type of ingestion’s. If you do have issues with Ammonia, the SC Johnson company makes other Windex and other brand cleaners without this.

Windex is not recommended for wood and varnished finishes. I use it mainly for windows, mirrors, glasses, and some appliances around the kitchen. Supposedly it works well on plastics, chrome items, and stainless steel products, but I have not used Windex there. For glass and mirrors, it cannot be beat. A lot of other brands have a tendency to leave large amounts of streaks, and Windex does not. There are many different methods to cleaning, but I usually spray it on a paper towel, and then dry the area with the other side.(It cuts down on the amount of paper used, and is a good way to reduce the level of work a little bit)

The No-Drip formula is not exactly foolproof. While it does a fine job in shining/cleaning up surfaces, it does drip a little bit. SC Johnson’s advertising on this product is a bit misleading in this regard, however it is a major improvement over its original formula. The original would immediately drip, causing runs of Windex to follow gravity down windows and mirrors. The No-Drip formula, in my estimation, has reduced this by 50%. This is outstanding, and I hope one day SC Johnson Company will find a way to reduce it totally. Until then, the bottle should state “Windex Reduced Drip Formula Glass Cleaner.”

The 26 oz bottle is easy to use, and it fits snugly in one hand while cleaning. The bottle is thinner in areas allowing for a great grip, and the nozzle is above average. All you have to do is turn the nozzle to the “on” position, which requires only minimal physical effort. You are now ready to fire, and each release provides a generous amount of the product. I would say that an average of 3-4 sprays on each window will be sufficient, and it will get rid of grime and other stains. Mirrors require less, and eye glasses will be cleaned with just a few drops of this.

Since the beginning of this review was about fumes, I will say that Windex does have a distinctive smell to it. It has a bit of a ammonia/chemical odor that lingers for a day after use, but it does dissipate with time. While it is not annoying or offensive, it does not smell like Roses or other pleasant things. If you like Windex, you might try other SC Johnson products such as Glade,(this will decrease the initial odor of Windex)Fantastik, Drano, Grab-It, Pledge, Scrubbing Bubbles, or Shout. They have been ranked among America’s Best Companies to work for according to numerous business organizations, so you can ease your conscience while purchasing!

If you have any questions directed to the SC Johnson Company:

United States residents 1-800-494-4855
+
our friends up North in Canada: 1-877-506-7352 (Windex will shine up that Zamboni!)

This product was purchased for $3.99.