Why is Windex toxic?

Due to the presence of solvents and surfactants in Windex, consumption of these products can result in toxicity. The chemicals found in these products can cause stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if swallowed.

What toxic chemicals are in Windex?

However, Rosenberg says, the products actually contain toxic ingredients such as butylphenyl methylpropional, linalool, 2-hexoxyethanol and isopropanolamine, all of which are toxic. The Windex class action lawsuit explains the chemicals have been linked to various illnesses.

Is Windex toxic to breathe?

Skin : Prolonged or repeated contact may dry skin and cause irritation. Inhalation : No adverse effects expected when used as directed. Ingestion : May cause irritation to mouth, throat and stomach. May cause abdominal discomfort.

What happens if you breathe in too much Windex?

Airborne mist from the spray can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Any inhaled droplets get caught in the back of the throat and are not expected to get deep into the lung fields, so significant symptoms such as difficulty breathing and wheezing are not expected.

When did Windex stop using ammonia?

In 1989, Windex was a 5% ammonia solution. The product was reformulated in 2006.

Uses and Abuses of Windex

How did people clean windows before Windex?

These first windows were cleaned by housewives or servants, with a simple solution, a bucket of water, and a cloth. It wasn't until the construction boom–starting in 1860–that a demand for window cleaners came about.

Why do they put vinegar in Windex?

We use it in our products to help a formula spread across a surface, making cleaning more efficient. Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its pungent smell and sour taste, and has been used in homes for more than 10,000 years.

Is Windex considered hazardous?

STABILITY AND REACTIVITY Reactivity : No dangerous reaction known under conditions of normal use. : Stable under recommended storage conditions. : If accidental mixing occurs and toxic gas is formed, exit area immediately. Do not return until well ventilated.

Is Windex a hazardous product?

This product is not classified as hazardous according to OSHA 29CFR 1910.1200 (HazCom 2012-GHS) and current Canadian Controlled Products Regulations (CPR). May be mildly irritating to eyes and skin. In case of contact, immediately flush with plenty of water. If irritation occurs and persists, get medical attention.

What is the main ingredient in Windex?

The ammonia you'll find in Windex and other window cleaners is a called ammonium hydroxide or ammonia solution — commonly called ammonia-D.

Can you put Windex on your skin?

Don't put window cleaner your skin

—applying window cleaner directly to your skin is definitely a big DON'T. The chemicals in window cleaner can irritate and even burn your skin, and besides, who wants to smell like ammonia anyway?

Is Windex toxic to skin?

Further, if ammonia makes contact with your skin or eyes, symptoms could range from rapid irritation and severe burns to eye damage and blindness. If ingested in high amounts, ammonia can lead to corrosive damage to the mouth, throat, and stomach. There are some other cautions you should take when using Windex, too.

Is Windex just ammonia?

Q: What ingredients are in Windex^® Glass and Multi-Surface Cleaners? A: Most Windex^® Glass and Multi-Surface Cleaners are formulated with detergents, solvents, fragrance and in some cases ammonia (see below for ammonia-free products).

What is a safer alternative for Windex?

Rubbing Alcohol Windex Alternative

(Rubbing alcohol is also a safe cleaning solution for stains and sticky messes.) Mix one cup distilled water, three tablespoons vinegar, and ¼ cup rubbing alcohol in a new spray bottle and label it. Shake up your glass cleaning solution and spray it on your glass.

Is Windex just alcohol?

No; the current formula for Windex glass cleaner does not contain alcohol. The ingredients are: 2-Hexoxyethanol, Isopropanolamine, Ammonium Hydroxide, Lauryl Dimethyl Amine Oxide, Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate, fragrance, and dye.

What are the health effects of Windex?

Where should you not use Windex?

Bathtubs, showers and toilets are other areas you'll want to scrub down and disinfect, so hands off the original Windex. “The best cleaning product for the bathroom are any products that are bleach or peroxide based, like Lysol with Bleach or Comet” says Monica Bowman of Two Maids & A Mop.

Can you pour Windex down the drain?

Unused amounts of cleaning products can generally be safely disposed of down the drain or in the trash.

Why was ammonia removed from Windex?

The toxic fumes can cause respiratory and skin irritations, as well as asthmatic and allergic reactions. The second reason, which is closely related to the first, is that ammonia can react and become very dangerous when combined with other chemicals, especially chlorine bleach!

Why is Windex blue?

The reason most glass cleaners on the market are blue is that, during the 1960s, Windex's original recipe used a translucent blue dye to help it stand out from the pack. In response to this product's popularity, many customers began associating the color of light blue spray with glass cleaners.

What do maids use to clean windows?

Dish Soap and Water

Dish soap is perfect for cleaning windows with residue and buildup, and you only need a few drops of dish soap to get the job done. If you're cleaning inside windows, use a spray bottle and if you're washing exterior windows, use a bucket.

Is vinegar better than Windex to clean windows?

Spray a stronger mix of 1:1 water and vinegar (or Windex, or glass cleaner) at your window, so that the solution covers most of the glass. (I found Windex to work better, but if you have pets—or kids—who frequently lick outdoor windows, vinegar may be the best route for you.)

Why does newspaper clean glass so well?

The high absorbency of the newsprint is likely what makes it so effective at cleaning windows. It actually absorbs the liquid instead of just pushing it around. And glass is a slick, non-porous surface, so the ink doesn't adhere to it like it does wood molding.

Does Windex need to be rinsed?

Spray down the surface liberally, let stand for 10 minutes, and then wipe it up. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with water to eliminate any cleanser residue on food preparation surfaces.