Caring for your windscreen may sound like a simple task but there are things you may not know. What are the tricks to getting glass clean? How can you prevent streaks? Sun or shade, does it make a difference? This article will answer those questions and more. When you are done reading this article you should be able to clean your windscreen like a pro.
Where to start
Before you begin to clean your windscreen, be sure to remove any debris that may have accumulated on the glass or at the base of it, this includes such things as leaves, twigs, etc. If any debris is trapped under the wipers, gently lift the arm and remove it. This is also a good time to clean the cowl area, or the grate between the hood and the windscreen. When this process is complete be sure to return the wiper arm to its original position to avoid damaging it.
Now would be a good time to remove any large splatters on the windscreen, this would include bird droppings and bug splatters. Removing the dried on splatters now will make cleaning the windscreen easier. If necessary run the car through a car wash to remove the splatters.
How to get the glass really clean
A sparkling clean windscreen requires the use a high quality glass cleaner and absorbent lint-free towels. Invest in a sustainable towel, it will save you money in the long run and is good for the environment too. Glass that doesn’t come clean may be the result of using an inferior quality glass cleaner. If you are using a quality cleaner and the glass still is dirty it may be the technique you are using.
Cleaning your windscreen
Park your car in a shady spot before cleaning your windscreen this will prevent the cleaner from drying too quickly. Glass cleaner that is allowed to dry on the glass causes streaks and may even become sticky.
The following steps will produce a sparkling windscreen.
- Clean the outside of the windscreen first.
- Spray the glass cleaner on only half of the area to be cleaned. Work in small sections to prevent the glass cleaner from drying on the glass.
- Make sure the glass the glass is completely dry while cleaning the windscreen. Glass cleaner that dries on the windscreen will leave a residue on the glass.
- Repeat this process for the other car windows.
- Now clean the glass on the inside of the car following the same procedures.
If it has been a while since the glass was cleaned, you may have to repeat the procedure a second time. This is especially true on the inside where condensation, dust, and even fingerprints have adhered to the glass.
When you are done cleaning inspect all of the windows from the outside looking for streaks or other signs the glass is not cleaned completely, sit in the driver’s seat and see if the windscreen has any vision distracting streaks. Repeat cleaning steps if the glass has streaks or does not appear to be clean.
One last step
Before putting the glass cleaner away, now would be an excellent time to clean the inside and outside mirrors being careful not to put too much pressure on the mirror that could cause damage.
The only thing left to do is put your cleaning supplies away and enjoy the clear view.
