After an hour of washing your car in the hot sun, cleaning the windshield is typically the section we skip over, although we shouldn’t. Dirt particles on the surface of the glass don’t only ruin the clean aesthetic, it also reflects more UV light and reduces visibility. While grabbing a bottle of Windex and paper towels is the go-to, this method could be damaging your tint. When it comes to properly removing streaks off the glass, here’s what you should be looking for in cleaning and application products.
Types of Auto Glass Cleaners:
Spray:
Glass-cleaning sprays are among the most popular products for removing grime. What may come as a surprise is that a huge percentage of these cleaners are ammonia-based. If you have tints, ammonia should be avoided at all costs. The colorless gas can discolor and peel off tints completely. If you’re cleaning in direct sunlight, you’ll find that ammonia glass cleaners leave streaks on the surface rather than removing them. This happens because the heat causes the ammonia to dry before it evaporates. So, while you can use Windex, make sure you’re buying the ammonia-free kind.
Wipes:
Think about all those times you’ve been driving and sat there wishing you could clean that smudged mirror. While cleaning an entire windshield with a wipe isn’t practical, if you’re working on the side and interior mirrors then wipes come in handy. They conveniently come in resealable packs that can be stored anywhere in your vehicle. When you opt for glass-cleaning wipes, look for ones that are made with a streak-free formula.
Foam:
Similar to spray glass cleaners, a foam-based cleaning product comes in a bottle. Foam cans work quickly to break down and remove any residue on your windows. They’re also beneficial for avoiding overspray; the solution won’t drip down before you get a chance to wipe it off.
Towels:
Choosing the wrong drying cloth can leave you with streaks and even scratches, meaning an old t-shirt won’t do the job. A good drying towel should be durable, lightweight, and most importantly absorbent.
Waffle Weave:
Waffle weave cloths provide the perfect combination of strength and softness. The ridges and satin border of this fabric work great to soak up water quickly and effectively. With lightweight plush material, waffle towels are also easy to wring out when you’re done drying.
Microfiber Cloth:
Made up of synthetic fibers, microfiber cloths can absorb dirt, wax, and liquid. This means you’re left with clear, streak-free windows every time. Its soft material reduces the risk of scratches and is extremely absorbent. Microfiber cloths are also reusable meaning you can easily wash them.
While achieving shiny rims or a freshly waxed exterior can take priority when washing your car, a clean window is just as important. All the dust, smears, and residue on your car windows can impact your visibility on the road. No matter what material you select for both cleaning and drying, make sure you’re choosing ammonia-free cleaners and absorbent, lightweight cloths.
