Maintaining spotless car windows is vital for safe driving. Why? Because dirty windows can impede your sight and increase the glare from the sun/headlights. Here’s how to clean your car windows correctly:
- Park in a shady spot to stop the cleaning solution from drying too soon.
- Use a microfiber cloth or a fresh sponge to wipe off any dust/dirt on the window.
- Spray your chosen cleaning solution onto the window and scrub with a squeegee to remove the soap and water.
- Use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe away any leftovers after the squeegee.
- Do all this again for each window, using clean tools and clothes to avoid marks/streaks.
These steps will give crystal-clear car windows for a safer and better driving experience.
Cleaning Supplies Needed
Are you cleaning car windows? Not so daunting! Get the right supplies, and you’re good to go.
- Glass cleaner: Pick a high-quality one that’s safe for car windows. Avoid ammonia-containing products; they hurt tinted windows.
- Microfiber towels: Soft, clean, and lint-free for gentle cleaning. No streaks or lint!
- Squeegee: Get a comfy grip and a firm, flexible rubber blade.
- Bucket: Fill it with water and glass cleaner solution.
- Water hose: Rinse car windows before and after.
- Pro tip: Clean car windows on cloudy days or in the shade. The Sundries cleaner too fast and causes streaks.
Preparation Steps

Seems like a tough job to clean car windows? Not really! With the proper tools and steps, it’s easy. Follow these preparation tips:
- Find a shady place. Direct sunlight can make the cleaning solution dry quickly and leave stains.
- Gather all the necessary items: bucket, cloth, squeegee, and cleaner.
- Fill the bucket with warm water and some dish soap.
- Use a cloth to take off the surface dirt.
- Dip the cloth in soapy water and squeeze out the excess.
- Clean the windows in circles.
- Start from the top, and use the squeegee to remove water.
- Use glass cleaner on a clean cloth and wipe.
Pro tip: Add white vinegar to the cleaner for an extra shine.
Cleaning the Exterior Windows

If you want to clean exterior windows, here’s how to do it:
- Mix one part vinegar or lemon juice and two parts water in a spray bottle.
- Spray generously on the windows, and let sit for a few minutes.
- Using a squeegee, start at the top, and wipe downwards in a straight line.
- Wipe the blade dry with a cloth after each swipe.
- Repeat until the entire window is wiped.
- For tough stains/grime, use a specialized glass cleaner or dish soap and warm water with a microfiber cloth.
Pro tip: Avoid cleaning windows on hot, sunny days. Heat can cause streaking or damage to the glass.
Cleaning the Interior Windows
Cleaning the inside of your car windows is an easy job that can improve your driving experience. Here’s what to do:
- Get your stuff together – a microfiber cloth, glass cleaner or vinegar-based solution, and a squeegee.
- Roll down the windows to clean the top of the glass properly.
- Spray the cleaner or vinegar-based solution on the microfiber cloth.
- Wipe the windows in a circular motion, pushing firmly to remove any hard spots and streaks.
- Use the squeegee to remove any extra cleaner or liquid, beginning from the top and going down to the bottom of the window.
- Do the same on all windows, using a fresh and dry microfiber cloth to remove any leftover streaks or cleaner residue.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even a tiny mistake can result in streaks or residue when cleaning car windows. Here are some tips to get crystal-clear car windows:
- Use microfiber towels or cloths instead of paper towels or rags. These can leave lint and residue.
- Don’t clean windows in direct sunlight or hot temperatures. This can cause the cleaning solution to dry quickly and leave streaks.
- Use a car window cleaner or a homemade solution of water and vinegar/alcohol. This is effective and streak-free.
- To wipe the windows, use a back-and-forth motion, not a circular. This can cause streaks.
- If streaks appear, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to buff them away in a straight line.
By following these tips, you can get clear car windows!
Preventative Maintenance
Make sure to include window cleaning in your regular car maintenance routine. Here’s how to do it for a clear and safe driving experience:
- Use a microfiber cloth or squeegee to remove loose dirt and dust.
- Spray glass cleaner on the window and wipe it with a cloth or paper towel. Don’t forget the edges and corners.
- For stubborn spots, use a little bit of rubbing alcohol on a cloth. Move it in circles until the spot disappears.
- Don’t clean your windows in direct sunlight; it can cause streaking.
For best results, clean every two to three weeks.
Conclusion
Finishing up and cleaning your car windows is a big part of keeping your vehicle’s look and safety. Doing this regularly helps your driving visibility. It keeps dirt and grime from hurting your windows.
When cleaning, use the right tools and methods. Don’t use abrasive stuff or harsh chemicals that could damage the windows. Use a microfiber towel or a squeegee with an ammonia-free cleaner instead.
By following these steps, you can keep your car windows clean, clear, and like new for ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cleaner for car windows?
The best cleaner for car windows is specifically formulated for automotive use. Look for a streak-free product to remove dirt, grime, and bugs without scratching the glass.
Can I use vinegar to clean my car windows?
Yes, vinegar can be used to clean car windows. Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle, and use a microfiber cloth to wipe the glass. However, be careful not to use too much vinegar, as it can damage the tint on some windows.
How often should I clean my car windows?
It is recommended to clean your car windows at least once a month or more frequently if you live in an area with many bugs, pollen, or dirt. Regular cleaning will help maintain the visibility of your windows and make driving safer.
Can I use newspaper to clean my car windows?
Yes, the newspaper can clean car windows as it does not leave lint or streaks behind. However, use caution when handling the paper, as the ink can transfer and stain your hands or clothing.
What is the best way to prevent fogging on car windows?
To prevent fogging on car windows, use a defogging spray or wipe, or apply a thin layer of shaving foam or white vinegar to the inside of the windows and wipe away with a clean cloth.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my car windows?
Using a pressure washer to clean car windows is not recommended, as the high pressure can damage the glass or force water into the vehicle’s interior. Use automotive glass cleaners and microfiber cloths for safe and effective cleaning.