How to Clean Inside of Windshield: Step-by-Step Guide and Tricks for Long-Lasting Results

I. Introduction

If you’re like most drivers, cleaning the inside of your windshield probably doesn’t make it to your car care checklist, but it should. A clean inside windshield is vital for safe driving, as it allows you to clearly see the road ahead, especially in bad weather conditions. In this article, we’ll explore how to effectively clean the inside of your windshield, discuss the benefits of doing so, and offer some tricks for long-lasting cleanliness.

II. Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Inside Windshield

Cleaning the inside of your windshield is a simple task that requires just a few materials and some elbow grease. Here are the materials you’ll need:

Glass cleaner
Microfiber cloth or newspaper
Cotton swabs

Start with the following tips to prepare the surface for cleaning:

Park your car in a shaded area to prevent the cleaning solution from drying too quickly.
Remove any items on the dashboard that could interfere with cleaning.
Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove any loose dirt or dust from the windshield before applying the cleaning solution.

Now, follow these steps to clean your inside windshield:

Spray the glass cleaner onto a microfiber cloth or newspaper. Avoid spraying directly onto the windshield to prevent overspray and dripping.
Starting at the top of the windshield, wipe in a straight line down to the bottom. Avoid circular motions, which can leave streaks.
Use cotton swabs to get into tight corners and crevices.
Switch to a clean area of the cloth or newspaper frequently to avoid spreading dirt or grime around.

Here are some post-cleaning tips that will produce the best result:

Avoid smoking in the car to prevent buildup of nicotine on the windshield.
Use clean microfiber cloths or newspapers each time you clean the windshield.
Never use ammonia-based cleaning solutions, as they can cause the windshield to haze over time.

III. Homemade Window Cleaner: Tough Stains and Spots

Sometimes, typical glass cleaners may not be enough to remove tough stains and spots from the windshield. Here are some homemade window cleaner recipes that work great:

Equal parts water and vinegar: Mix one cup of water with one cup of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle to mix the solution and spray onto the windshield. Wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper.
Water and rubbing alcohol: Mix one cup of water with one cup of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Spray on the windshield and wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper. This solution is especially effective at removing buildup from cigarette smoke.

When using homemade cleaners, be sure to follow these instructions for best results:

Shake the spray bottle before each use to mix the solution.
Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the windshield before using it on the entire surface.
Never mix vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Use them separately.

IV. The Best Cleaning Tools to Use

Here are some tools that will help you achieve optimal windshield cleaning:

Microfiber cloths or newspapers: These materials are gentle on the windshield and won’t leave lint behind.
Cotton swabs: These are perfect for getting into tight corners and crevices that are hard to reach with a cloth or newspaper.

When using cleaning tools, be sure to follow these instructions for best results:

Use a dry microfiber cloth or newspaper to remove loose dirt or dust before applying the cleaning solution.
Use a different area of the cloth or newspaper for each section of the windshield to avoid spreading dirt or grime around.
Don’t use abrasive materials, such as paper towels or scrubbing pads, as they can scratch the windshield.

V. The Benefits of Keeping Your Inside Windshield Clean

The benefits of a clean inside windshield go beyond just aesthetics. A clean windshield allows you to see more clearly while driving, which is especially important in hazardous weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly a quarter of all weather-related crashes occur in foggy conditions, which is why it’s crucial to maintain clear visibility.

Furthermore, a clean windshield contributes to the overall comfort and safety of your driving experience. Dirt, grime, and smudges on the windshield can cause eye fatigue and distractions that can lead to accidents.

VI. Tricks for Longer-Lasting Cleanliness

If you want to extend the time period between cleaning your inside windshield, here are some tips and tricks:

Use a window rain repellent spray or windshield coating on the inside of the windshield. These products help to repel water, dirt, and grime, making it easier to keep the windshield clean for longer periods.
Keep the interior of your car clean and free of clutter. Dirt and grime can accumulate quickly in a cluttered car, making it more difficult to clean the inside windshield.
Avoid smoking in your car, as the buildup of nicotine on the windshield can be difficult to remove.

These tips and tricks work well when combine with newly developed cleaning methods:

Use a car wax product to create a slippery surface on the windshield. This surface makes it more difficult for dirt and other contaminants to stick to the glass surface, allowing you to clean the windshield less often.
Clean the windshield in sections regularly, rather than waiting for significant accumulation of grime. This technique helps to prevent the buildup of grime and makes it easier to clean up after each section is cleaned.

VII. Eco-Friendly Methods for Cleaning Your Windshield

If you’re looking for eco-friendly alternatives to typical glass cleaning solutions, here are some options:

Water and vinegar: Mix one cup of water with one cup of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle to mix the solution and spray onto the windshield. Wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper.
Water and baking soda: Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the windshield, and then wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper. This solution is especially effective at removing tough stains and spots.

When using eco-friendly cleaners, be sure to follow these instructions for best results:

Shake the spray bottle before each use to mix the solution.
Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the windshield before using it on the entire surface.
Never mix vinegar and baking soda. Use them separately.

VIII. Conclusion

Keeping the inside of your windshield clean is an essential part of maintaining a safe driving environment. By following this step-by-step guide, you can keep your windshield clean and clear, contributing to a more comfortable and safer driving experience. Remember to regularly maintain your car’s windshield to ensure that it remains clean and functional.

Finally, here are some last-minute tips that can help to keep the inside of your windshield clean:

Regularly check the air filter in your car to prevent buildup of dust and dirt inside the car.
Clean your car’s carpets regularly. Dirt and debris from your shoes can easily get embedded in the carpets and make it more challenging to keep the inside windshield clean.
Schedule regular cleaning sessions to maintain the windshield’s cleanliness.