Keeping your windshield clear is essential for your safety and the car’s appearance, but auto glass has several unique cleaning requirements. Unfortunately, certain glass cleaners can leave your windshield in worse shape than it was before, and some conditions must be avoided to ensure the glass is left shining. For excellent results, follow these do's and don'ts.

Do:

Wash auto glass in the shade.

Washing your windshield in the sun can force glass cleaners or soapy water to evaporate too quickly, leaving the glass smudged and giving you extra work. Instead, work inside a garage or in a shady spot. The surrounding heat will help the glass dry, and you won't have double the workload.

Clean with gentle materials.

For a streak-free clean, use microfiber cloths and squeegees. Using a side-to-side or up-and-down motion will help you avoid smudges, and the squeegee can be used to wipe away any remaining moisture. Additionally, avoid domestic glass cleaners, as these commonly contain ammonia. Not only will this leave auto glass streaky, but over time it can cause tinting on your windshield to peel off.

Don’t:

Use abrasive supplies.

Rough scrubbers, such as steel wool, should never be used on auto glass, as even the finest abrasive materials can leave tiny scratches on the surface. These may not be readily apparent at the time of cleaning, but once the sunlight hits them, they can turn into a distracting and dangerous web of reflective surfaces.

Use newspapers for wiping.

Newspaper is a traditional choice for cleaning glass because it was cheap, widely available, and didn't leave lint or fuzz. However, modern newspapers typically use soy-based ink, which can leave stubborn stains and streaks on windshields. To avoid damage and save money, use reusable microfiber cloths instead.

 

If you need windshield repair or replacement, turn to Rochester Auto Glass & Mirror in New York. This team of glass specialists is fully licensed, state-certified, and insured, with more than four decades of experience. They offer friendly, efficient service six days a week for all your home and auto glass needs. To request a free quote, call (585) 454-1850. To learn more about their services, visit them online.