Who Owns Windex?

Windex benefits from S.C. Johnson's comprehensive sustainability framework, which the company details in its annual Better World Accountability Report.

PCR Packaging: Over 99% of Windex PET bottles in North America are made from post-consumer recycled resins. S.C. Johnson has incorporated 25% PCR materials across its packaging portfolio, a 400% increase since 2018. The company used over 17,000 metric tons of PCR in its products in the most recent reporting year.

Refill Programs: Windex offers refills for select products, allowing consumers to reuse spray bottles. S.C. Johnson trigger bottles are designed to deliver more than 10,000 sprays, meaning they can be refilled and reused dozens of times. Refilling a full-size bottle instead of buying a new trigger bottle cuts plastic waste.

Emissions Reduction: S.C. Johnson has reduced company-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 72% compared to its 2000 baseline, surpassing its 70% goal. Renewable energy use has increased to 47% globally. All S.C. Johnson-owned manufacturing sites have achieved zero manufacturing waste to landfill.

Formulation Improvements: Windex has developed ammonia-free formulas and plant-based cleaning solutions. The brand has removed phthalates and certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from its formulations. Windex Vinegar and Windex Multi-Surface products offer alternatives to the original ammonia-based formula.

Ingredient Transparency: S.C. Johnson provides ingredient information for its products, including Windex. The company has improved labeling and safety data sheets to help consumers make informed choices.

Windex has received recognition primarily through consumer trust surveys and product testing organizations rather than formal industry awards.

Consumer Trust: Windex consistently ranks among America's most trusted cleaning brands in consumer surveys. The brand's distinctive blue bottle and name have become synonymous with glass cleaning in American English, a level of brand recognition that few products achieve.

Product Performance: Windex has been recognized by testing organizations like Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping for its streak-free cleaning performance on glass and shiny surfaces. The original glass cleaner formula has received "Best Glass Cleaner" designations from various consumer testing publications.

Sustainability Recognition: S.C. Johnson's plastic reduction achievements, including Windex's PCR packaging, have been recognized by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and other environmental organizations. The company is a Strategic Partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and has met its 2025 Global Commitment plastic targets.

Family Business Recognition: S.C. Johnson has been recognized as one of America's oldest and most successful family-owned companies, with 140 years of continuous family ownership. This recognition extends to the company's brands, including Windex.

Ammonia Safety Concerns: Windex's original formula contains ammonia, which can cause respiratory irritation and damage certain surfaces like tinted windows and some plastics. Consumer advocates have warned about potential health risks, particularly for households with children, pets, or individuals with respiratory conditions. S.C. Johnson has developed ammonia-free Windex formulations in response, though the original formula remains available.

Environmental Impact: Environmental organizations have criticized traditional cleaning product brands, including Windex, for contributing to water pollution through chemical runoff and generating plastic waste. S.C. Johnson has responded with PCR packaging, refill programs, and formulation improvements, but some environmental groups argue that more needs to be done.

Animal Testing: S.C. Johnson has faced criticism from animal rights organizations for conducting animal testing on product formulations. The company states that it conducts animal testing only where required by regulatory requirements and has invested in alternative testing methods. Some animal welfare groups continue to pressure the company to eliminate all animal testing.

Competition from Store Brands: Windex faces increasing competition from private label glass cleaners that offer similar performance at lower prices. Retailers have developed their own glass cleaning products that compete directly with Windex, creating pricing pressure. This competition has pushed Windex to differentiate through new formulations, packaging formats, and sustainability improvements.

Formulation Changes: When Windex has reformulated products to remove certain ingredients, some consumers have complained about changes in cleaning effectiveness or scent. Reformulations in response to regulatory requirements or consumer preferences have occasionally led to consumer backlash from long-time users.