How to Clean the Inside of Your Car Windshield

Is grease and grime on your windshield affecting your road visibility? Keeping your windshield clean is crucial for maintaining a clear view and reducing the risk of accidents. Regularly cleaning the inside of your windshield helps eliminate dirt, smudges, and residue, making your driving experience safer. A clean windshield also aids in defrosting by allowing condensation and fog to clear more quickly, as they tend to cling to dirty surfaces.

Why Your Windshield Attracts So Much Dirt

There are many reasons why your windshield might get dirty, from fingerprints and pet nose prints to environmental pollutants like smog, smoke, road dust, and sea salt. One of the leading causes is off-gassing—a process where chemicals from the plastic and vinyl components inside your car are released. This phenomenon is responsible for that “new car smell,” but it also leaves behind an oily residue on the windshield.

Additionally, using oily products on your dashboard can worsen the situation, as the oils can create a film on the glass, especially in warm and humid conditions.

How to Clean the Inside of Your Car Windshield

Keeping the inside of your car windshield clean is essential for safe driving. Follow these steps to effectively remove dirt and grime:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Lint-free microfiber cloths

• Glass cleaner

• Distilled white vinegar

• Rubbing alcohol

Cleaning Steps:

1. Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Choose one of the following mixtures in a spray bottle:

   • 50% rubbing alcohol, 50% water, and a capful of white vinegar

   • 70% water, 15% glass cleaner, 15% alcohol

2. Get in Position: Sit in the passenger seat for easier access to the windshield.

3. Initial Wipe: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe the glass and remove loose dirt.

4. Degrease the Glass: Take a separate cloth and apply rubbing alcohol to remove any oily residue. If you live near the coast, use vinegar to help dissolve sea salt.

5. Clean with Glass Cleaner: Spray glass cleaner onto a cloth (never directly on the windshield) and clean the glass using circular motions. Be sure to use an automotive glass cleaner, avoiding ammonia-based products that can damage your car’s interior.

6. Dry and Finish: Switch to fresh microfiber cloths as they get dirty, and finish with up-and-down strokes to ensure the glass is completely dry for a streak-free shine.

Tips for a Successful Windshield Cleaning

• Clean After the Car’s Interior and Exterior: Clean your windshield after tending to the rest of your car to avoid transferring any dirt or grease.

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Clean in the shade or cooler temperatures to prevent the cleaner from evaporating too quickly, which can cause streaks.

• Dedicated Cloths: Use cloths specifically for cleaning your windshield to avoid cross-contamination with wax or other products.

Keeping Your Windshield Clean

To help maintain a clean windshield, park your car in shaded areas and, when possible, crack the windows slightly to let gasses escape—just make sure to close them on rainy days!

When to Consider Windshield Repair or Replacement

If you notice chips or cracks in your windshield, it’s essential to get them repaired or replaced promptly to ensure your safety on the road. Regular cleaning helps with visibility, but damaged windshields can become a serious hazard if left untreated.