Ah, the joy of driving on a sunny day with clear, spotless windows! There’s nothing quite like it. But, let’s face it, cleaning car windows can sometimes feel like trying to herd cats. Fear not, here are some tips and tricks to make your windows sparkle like never before. Grab your cleaning supplies, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s dive into the world of glass-cleaning wizardry.
1. The Directional Difference
To ensure you know which side of the glass has streaks, wipe the outside of your windows horizontally and the inside vertically. This way, if you spot any streaks, you’ll easily identify whether they’re inside or outside. Follow up with a clean microfiber towel to buff away any remaining residue. It's a simple trick that saves a lot of frustration!
2. The Magic of Microfiber
Microfiber towels are your best friend when it comes to cleaning car windows. They’re soft, absorbent, and good ones won't leave lint behind. Use one microfiber towel to apply your favorite glass cleaner and another fresh one(s) to buff the window dry. The result? Crystal clear windows without a streak in sight. Plus, you’ll feel like a professional detailer in no time.
3. The Shade Solution
Cleaning windows in direct sunlight is a rookie mistake. The heat causes the cleaner to evaporate too quickly, likely leaving streaks and frustration in its wake. Instead, find a nice shady spot to park your car. This will give you more time to work with the cleaner to achieve a streak-free shine. Think of it as a "two birds one stone" situation —no sunburn for you, and shade for your windows!
4. Using Multiple Microfibers
When it comes to cleaning car windows, one towel just won’t cut it. Grab two microfiber towels (maybe even 3 or 4): one for applying the cleaner and one for drying/buffing. The first towel gets all the dirt and grime off, while the other towels ensure there are no streaks left.
5. The Clay Bar Boost
For those times when your windows feel rough to the touch or have stubborn spots that just won't budge, a clay bar can be your secret weapon. Spray a clay bar lubricant onto the glass, then gently rub the clay bar over the surface. This process removes embedded contaminants, leaving your glass ultra-smooth and ready for a windshield treatment. It’s like an exfoliation for your car windows!
6. The Inside-Out Approach
Don’t forget the inside of your windows! Interior glass can get just as dirty, thanks to fingerprints, smudges, and the occasional sneezes (bless you!). Clean the interior windows using the same method as the exterior: 2+ microfiber towels and a glass cleaner. Your passengers will appreciate the clear view, and you’ll enjoy a cleaner cabin.
7. Rain Repellent
Once your windows are sparkling clean, take things up a notch with a rain repellent or sealant. These products create a hydrophobic layer on your windows, causing water to bead up and roll off! Plus, it makes driving in the rain much safer and clearer. Apply a rain repellent according to the instructions, and enjoy the satisfying sight of water bouncing off your windshield.
Click the video below and you can get an idea of what a repellant looks like from Apex. Please give it a like while you're at it 😉.