Keep your Houston windshield clean with these basic tips.
Cracks in your car’s windshield here in Houston can definitely make it hard to see the road, but they aren’t the only thing that can block your view. Streaks on your windows can also make it difficult to drive safely. The good news is that streaks are easy to prevent—you just need to know the basics of cleaning glass.
We know auto glass better than anyone in Houston. When it comes to making sure your vehicle has a perfectly clear windshield, count on our team at Affordable Auto Glass for fast, easy windshield replacement and repair. Then follow our easy tips for keeping your windshield clear and sparkling!
Gathering Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start cleaning your car windows, you’ll need a few things. First, get your glass cleaner and the towels you plan to use. It’s important to choose the right kind of cleaner and towels for your car. Don’t just grab any towel you find. You need towels that are soft and won’t scratch your car’s glass. Microfiber towels are a great choice as they are good at picking up dirt and lint without leaving any behind. Plus, they soak up water well, which helps prevent streaks.
When it comes to glass cleaner, make sure it doesn’t contain ammonia. Ammonia can release fumes as you use it, and can also damage some of the materials inside your car, like plastic, rubber, vinyl, and leather, by drying them out. Look for a glass cleaner specifically made for cars or a general glass cleaner that is ammonia-free.
Cleaning Each Area of Auto Glass
Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to start cleaning. It’s a good idea to begin with the windshield. Clean each side thoroughly from the driver side and then the passenger side. Take your time to get it looking clear and streak-free—any streaks left behind will light up and impair your vision once the sunlight hits the glass.
After you’ve finished the windshield, you can move on to the side windows of your car. When cleaning the side windows, roll them down about halfway. This will allow you to easily clean the top edges of the glass, which often get dirty. Clean the visible part of the window first, then roll it down and clean the top part that was inside the door.
Cleaning the inside of the back window might be a little trickier to reach, especially the bottom edge. Here’s a helpful tip: you can use the back of your hand to gently hold the towel in place as you wipe down the lower part of the glass. This can give you a little more leverage and help you get a thorough clean all the way to the bottom.
Remember, never try to clean dry windows when they are in direct sunlight. The cleaner can dry too quickly, which can actually cause more streaks. It’s best to clean your windows in the shade or when the glass is cool.
What Should I Do If My Windshield Has a Crack?
Cleaning a windshield with cracks requires extra care. Avoid spraying cleaner directly into the crack, as moisture can worsen it. Instead, apply glass cleaner to a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the surrounding area, and never use excessive pressure while cleaning. We highly recommend that you have the crack repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your safety while driving.
Houston’s Go-To Experts for Windshield Repair
At Affordable Auto Glass, we offer quality auto glass repair service at prices that fit your budget. Call us today for a free windshield repair or replacement quote!
