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From dirt to road salt and bugs to bird droppings, many substances and insects can stick to your windshield. In addition to diminishing your car’s look, this debris can significantly impair your view of the road and put you in danger of an accident. To ensure your auto glass provides a clear perspective, here are five windshield cleaning tips that every driver should master.

How to Clean a Windshield

1. Watch the Temperature

Heat can cause cleaning solutions to dry up before you wipe them away, leaving soap-scum and water spots behind. If the glass is hot to the touch, park in a shady area or in a garage to cool the surface down before cleaning.

In winter weather, use an alcohol-based cleaning solution to prevent freezing. Never use hot water to melt ice, as it can crack the auto glass. To avoid windshield repairs, always use the defroster in your car to warm the glass up.

2. Wash With a Simple Solution

Many retailers offer cleaning solutions specifically designed for auto glass, including those that breakdown tough bird droppings or insect debris.

If you want to make your own cleaning solution, combine one quart of water with a ¼ cup of ammonia and a drop of dish soap. You can also mix 1 cup of warm water with 1 cup of vinegar. For either solution, add 1 cup of rubbing alcohol to prevent freezing in extreme winter weather.  

3. Use the Best Cleaning Tools

auto glassChoose cleaning tools that are optimized for glass, such as microfiber cloths, natural sponges, wash mitts, and squeegees. Newspaper, dish sponges, and household towels could scratch the surface and leave streaks.

4. Wipe the Right Way

For a spotless surface, clean both the inside and the outside of the windshield. To avoid streaks, spray the solution onto the glass and then wipe it top-to-bottom. Next, wipe it from side-to-side.

5. Replace Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid  

If your windshield wipers appear frayed, are vibrating, or make squeaking noises, have them replaced. Damaged wipers won’t clean effectively, may cause streaks, and could damage the glass. Also, routinely check the windshield wiper fluid levels to make sure you always have enough to clear away an unexpected spot while driving.

 

When you’re cleaning your windshield, make a point to look for defects in the auto glass, including small scratches, cracks, or chips. If you notice these problems, visit Badger Glass for complete windshield repairs in Anchorage and Fairbanks, AK. Equipped with advanced tools, these specialists can repair small blemishes to protect your windshield from further damage. Visit this shop online to learn more about their comprehensive capabilities. Schedule a convenient appointment by calling (907) 452-3927 to reach the Fairbanks location or (907) 522-3927 for the Anchorage shop.

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