Scratches on the windshield are often caused by wiper blades during rainy days. They can limit visibility and make driving dangerous, but luckily they can be removed easily. With a little "elbow grease" and the proper equipment, your windshield will be as good as new in no time!
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Clean the Windshield
Step 1. Choose a cleaner
If you can afford it, consider buying a specific car window product that is quite expensive, but usually offers the best results. Normal household cleaners, such as Vetril, or foaming ones are quite effective; some people even prefer to make their own product by mixing water and vinegar or by rubbing pure ammonia on the windshield.
- Ammonia is a perfect substance for cleaning windows; however, it can easily damage the paint, upholstery and upholstery of the car. Be careful not to drip onto other surfaces as you use it to clean.
- To make a very hot water and vinegar mixture, pour the two ingredients in equal parts into a spray bottle and shake well.
Step 2. Wash the windshield
First, spray a light coat of cleaner; if you can't reach all the glass, work on one half at a time. Rub the surface using a new microfiber cloth and making horizontal movements; gently lift the wipers and clean the part under them as well.
- If you have decided to use ammonia, pour a small amount on the cloth before rubbing the crystal and remember to wear gloves when handling it.
- If you don't have microfiber rags, you can replace them with newspaper.
Step 3. Wash the windshield with a water brush
If you don't have the proper cloths, you can evaluate this tool. Spray a small amount of cleaner and, using the sponge-coated side of the brush, scrape the dust and grease off the crystal; when the whole surface is soapy, turn the brush. Slide the rubbery side up one section of the windshield at a time, applying gentle pressure to remove any dirt and cleaner.
- When using this accessory you can avoid spraying the detergent by replacing it with a bucket of hot water and dish soap; dip the brush into the bucket and clean the windows.
- Keep some kitchen paper handy to dry the rubber blade between strokes.
Step 4. Dry the windshield
Use a new, clean microfiber rag; if you take one that is dirty or already used and washed, you risk scratching the crystal. Dry with fluid and circular movements, applying light pressure to remove any stubborn traces of dirt. Work on small sections at a time but quickly; if the cleaner dries on the surface, it leaves new streaks.
- If you don't have microfiber rags, consider drying them with newspaper; this material does not leave any lint and the ink shines the mirror crystal.
- Don't let it air dry; this is how annoying streaks are formed.
Step 5. Clean the inside
Enter the cockpit and repeat the procedure on this side of the glass. First, spray a light coat of detergent and gently scrub with a new microfiber cloth; then, dry the surface with circular movements, inspecting it for any streaks. If necessary, repeat the cleaning.
- Keep all doors open to ventilate the room, especially if you are using ammonia; breathing in chemical vapors is harmful to health.
- Do not use the brush to pull water inside the car.
Step 6. Use wiper fluid when driving
The wiper blades alone are unable to remove muddy debris, and this debris can dangerously limit visibility while you are behind the wheel. Read the car owner's manual carefully to know how to spray the liquid on the windshield while driving.
- Most cars are equipped with a lever near the steering wheel that operates the wiper blades; to spray the fluid, simply pull the lever towards you.
- Regularly inspect the vehicle to make sure the window cleaner level is always correct; never replace it with plain water.
Part 2 of 3: Wash the wiper blades
Step 1. Wash the wiper blades
If the windshield is clean but the rubber blades are dirty, you will end up with streaks on the surface. Gently pull them away from the glass by pulling them towards the front of the vehicle. Fill a small bucket with warm water and dish soap; dip a clean cloth into the mixture and squeeze it until it is just moist. Use it to gently wash your brushes with light, even strokes.
- You shouldn't have difficulty lifting the windshield wipers; if you feel excessive resistance, stop and consult the car owner's manual.
- Make sure that the soapy water does not fall on the glass, otherwise it will ruin all the work done so far!
Step 2. Blot the edge of the brushes
The rubber blade is the most important part; if it is not dry and flexible, it does not adhere properly to the crystal. Rub it gently using a clean microfiber cloth and making a pulling motion; then moisten a small section of the fabric with denatured alcohol and run it along the gum to speed up the drying process and treat the material.
- Grab the edge of the blade with your thumb and forefinger as you wipe it dry, this way you keep it sharp.
- Wipe in one direction only when wiping the rubber blades with the cloth, start at the point closest to the vehicle and move to the outer edge.
Step 3. Replace the wiper blades once a year
It is easy to forget about these elements, especially if you live in a dry climate; however, even sunlight damages the delicate material they are made of. A rubber blade in poor condition leaves marks on the windshield limiting visibility; it is always better to be safe than sorry!
- If you are familiar with car maintenance, you can also change them yourself; just make sure you buy the right parts for your vehicle.
- Most people prefer to replace them at the end of winter, just before the spring rains begin.
Part 3 of 3: Avoid the Sweeps
Step 1. Apply a water repellent product
You can find different types, they are perfect for preventing water and dirt from adhering to the windshield. To carry out the treatment, spray a light layer of product on the clean and dry surface. If the liquid is not sold in a spray package, pour a small amount onto the microfiber rag and use the microfiber rag to scrub the glass. treat one small area at a time in circular motions and wait for it to dry for 5-10 minutes.
- Depending on the specific brand of the product, the procedure may need to be repeated once a week.
- If you notice any film-like residue after drying the liquid, polish the surface with another clean microfiber rag, always making circular movements.
Step 2. Choose a high quality wiper fluid
This is the product that comes out of the sprayers located just below the wiper blades and helps them to remove dust and dirt that accumulate on the glass while you drive; ask the mechanic to recommend a brand suitable for your type of vehicle. Be prepared to pay a little more than usual, but it will be worth it in the long run!
- Don't give up wiper fluid. It is dangerous to drive without this product; if the windshield becomes dirty with mud, the brushes are unable to remove it on their own and visibility drops dramatically.
- If you run out of cleaner and don't know how to top it up, ask the mechanic to do it for you.
Step 3. Do a good maintenance on the brushes
Regularly inspect for problems, such as corrosion and tears. The rubber edge should be firmly connected to the structure and free of any cracks or holes that may leave streaks. Gently tug on the brushes to check that they are well mounted on the arm; if you notice any anomalies, ask the mechanic to replace the part.
