In the scope of all things related to automotive maintenance, a clean windshield matters. A clear and unobstructed view is allows for safe driving, but keeping the inside of the windshield clean is a step that can be forgotten. Let's fix that.
Armed with basic tools like a quality glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth, you'll quickly eliminate smudges and streaks to improve driving visibility.
Get a Streak-Free Windshield in 10 Steps
- Gather Your Supplies: Grab a microfiber cleaning cloth and an auto-specific glass cleaner in a spray bottle. Can you clean glass with vinegar or isopropyl alcohol? We wouldn't. The primary reason is because it's hard to know how white vinegar or an alcohol method will interact with rubber seals, tints, or other areas inside your vehicle. Avoid paper towels that can leave behind tiny fibers during cleaning and leave the job looking incomplete.
- Park Your Car: Tackling a dirty windshield surface is a lot easier if you're cleaning in direct sunlight. It's a lot easier to see (and remove) the greasy residue and hazy film with good lighting or oncoming lights.
- Remove Loose Debris: Use a dry microfiber towel to gently remove any buildup of contaminants or dust from the car's interior. This helps make sure you won't inadvertently scratch the glass surface during the cleaning process.
- Apply Windshield Cleaner: Spray the glass cleaner onto the microfiber cloth or directly onto the dirty windows. Be generous with the application for thorough coverage.
- Wipe in Circular Motions: Wipe the glass in consistent, circular motions, starting from the top and working your way down. This technique helps prevent streaks and ensures that you'll deep clean through everything, from doggie nose smudges to
- Focus on Stubborn Spots: Pay extra attention to any stubborn spots or streaks. If necessary, reapply the glass cleaner and use a bit more elbow grease to eliminate them.
- Top-to-Bottom, Side-to-Side: In my experience, applying the window spray from top to bottom and then from side to side in a horizontal motion works well. This guarantees that you cover the entire windshield without missing any areas.
- Address Top Edge: Roll down the windows slightly to access and clean the top edge of the glass, an often neglected area where dust and grime can accumulate.
- Inspect for Clarity: Step back and inspect the glass for clarity. Make sure there are no streaks or smudges obstructing your view.
- Repeat if Necessary: If streaks persist, repeat the process until the windows are completely clear.
Cleaning Products to Avoid
When cleaning car windows it's important to avoid abrasive cleaning products as they can cause damage to window tint film. Here are some cleaning products to steer clear of:
- Ammonia-Based Cleaners: Ammonia can be harmful to tinted windows, causing the tint film to deteriorate or bubble over time. Opt for ammonia-free cleaners specifically designed for auto glass.
- Abrasive Scrubbing Pads or Brushes: Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads or brushes on tinted windows, as they can scratch or damage during glass cleaning. Stick with soft, non-abrasive materials like fresh microfiber cloths.
- Harsh Chemicals or Bleach: Harsh chemicals or bleach-based cleaners may have adverse effects on tinted windows, leading to discoloration or damage. Choose mild, automotive-specific cleaners.
- Petroleum-Based Products: Opt for products that are free from petroleum-based ingredients as they can wear down the film layer.
- Silicone-Based Cleaners: Silicone-based cleaners may leave a slippery residue on tinted windows, affecting both the appearance and visibility. Choose cleaners without silicone for a streak-free finish.
Always check the labels of cleaning products. You want to be sure that you're using an appropriate automotive glass cleaners that explicitly mention compatibility with tinted glass to avoid any adverse reactions or damage.
How to Prevent Car Windows From Getting Foggy
Preventing car windows from fogging up is possible with a few simple measures. Utilize the car's defrost setting and ventilation system to regulate temperature and humidity. Crack the windows slightly for additional air circulation. In general, it's important to avoid keeping wet items inside the car. If you're still experiencing visibility issues, consider applying anti-fog products like Rain-X Anti-Fog, Instant Windshield Washer Tablets, or Invisible Glass Anti-Fog for a protective layer.
- Apply Rain-X Anti-Fog to the interior of your car windows.
- Wipe off any excess product with a clean, dry cloth
Instant Windshield Washer Tablets
- Dissolve a tablet in your windshield washer fluid reservoir.
- Use your car's windshield washer spray to apply the solution to the windows.
- Spray Invisible Glass Anti-Fog directly onto the interior surfaces of your windows.
- Wipe the product evenly across the glass using a microfiber cloth.
FAQ
How does the inside of the windshield get so dirty?
The inside of the windshield can get dirty due to dust, smoke, fingerprint oils, and wet pet noses. These things settle on the glass over time, leading to a buildup of grime that can impair visibility.
What are the best tools to reach the entire window?
To get thorough coverage of the entire windshield, including hard-to-reach areas, try these items:
- Windshield cleaning tool with an extendable handle
- Window cleaner spray: Using the right solution for the job makes cleaning tasks a breeze.
- Foam cleaning swabs: For cleaning oily residue around buttons and vents.
- Clean microfiber towel: For that streak-free shine.
- Soft-bristle brush: To flick residue off of the dashboard after deep cleaning.
