HOW TO PROPERLY CLEAN YOUR WINDSHIELD AND AUTO GLASS

Properly maintaining your automobile’s windshield is one way to help minimize the chances for expensive repairs or a complete windshield replacement. It is also a great way to stay safer on the road because a clear windshield allows for the best possible visibility. When debris and dirt from the road, along with bugs and grime collide with the surface of the glass it can become a safety hazard and also make your car look older than it really is. Additionally, the accumulation of debris can be a challenge to get off if it is left unaddressed.

Drivers commonly use their wipers and windshield sprayers to clear away debris from the windshield. This may be appropriate when mobile but it does tend to leave streaks so a thorough cleaning should be done as soon as possible. Nowadays there is an abundance of products on the market to aid vehicle owners with auto glass maintenance. In addition, there are a variety of ways to go about it. If you want to know if your glass is clean, simply run your fingers over it. If it feels rough and grimy then it is definitely time for a cleaning. In this article, we will go over the steps you should take to properly clean your windshield.

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Tools You Will Need To Clean A Windshield:
•    Microfiber Towels
•    Ammonia-Free Auto Glass Cleaner
•    Newspaper or Towels
•    Clay Bar and Cleaner (optional)

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Steps To Properly Cleaning A Windshield:

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Step 1: It is best to start the process with a clean car so we suggest taking the time to clean the exterior and interior of your vehicle before addressing the glass specifically. In doing this, you minimize the chances of dust, dirt, and pollen from clouding around the glass.

Step 2: Move the vehicle inside a garage or shady area. This will keep the glass cool and make it easier to work on.

Step 3: After the vehicle has been washed and thoroughly dried, you can then begin preparing the area to clean the glass windows and windshield. Preparing the area means to lie either newspaper or towels on the surface of your dashboard and door panels. This will prevent glass-cleaning products from harming the surface of the interior.

Step 4: At this time, have your microfiber towels and automotive glass cleaner ready. Microfiber towels are preferred over paper towels because they have less of a chance of scratching the glass or tint that may be present on the glass. In addition, they are reusable and do not rip apart so easily. Automotive glass cleaner is designed for auto glass and is usually ammonia-free. These cleaners are also safe for the glass and window tint.

Step 5: The process we are laying out can be utilized on both the exterior and the interior. Spray the glass cleaner onto the microfiber towel to begin the cleaning the process. By spraying the cleaner onto the towel rather than directly on the glass, there is less of a chance of drips and runs. This also contains the cleaner and prevents it from getting on other interior surfaces.

‍Step 6: Begin cleaning the inside facing glass first. It is smart to do this in sections and wipe the glass either side-to-side or from top to bottom. After a section has been cleaned once then go back over it in the opposite direction. This will minimize streaking on the glass. Do this on each interior glass surface until they have all been cleaned.

Step 7: Apply the same method to the exterior facing glass next. Before you start cleaning, remember to lift the windshield wipers. In some modern cars, you will need to select a windshield-cleaning mode on the center console in order to access the wipers.

Step 8: After you clean the windshield on the interior and exterior give it a look over to determine if a deeper cleaning is necessary. In some instances, debris can be badly caked up on the exterior glass surface and you will need a clay bar to remove the grim.  If that is the case, apply the cleaner and wipe the glass in one direction.

Step 9: Run your fingers over the glass after the clay cleaning is complete. It should feel very smooth. Proceed to clean the glass as directed in steps 5 and 6.

Step 10: Finish cleaning your windshield by drying it with a fresh microfiber towel and rubbing it in circular motions.
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Congratulations! You have just finished properly cleaning your windshield and auto glass. If you noticed any damage on the glass during the cleaning process Glass Inc. can help you. We are a professional auto glass and residential glass shop based in Atlanta, GA. Glass Inc. specializes in windshield repair and windshield replacement. Give us a call today or check out our website for a free estimate!

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