Windshield haze, the coating of oily haze that clings to your windshield, is both an inconvenience and a safety issue. If you’re starting to notice visibility issues with your windshield even on a clear day, you may be dealing with windshield haze. Act immediately and be sure to choose the right tools and products.
Here are your best bets for removing windshield haze:
1. White vinegar and water
This mixture is a simple DIY approach to removing windshield haze. Mix one cup of vinegar and one cup of water, and you have an effective glass and windshield cleaner. Others opt for the 10 percent vinegar to water ratio. You can always adjust the ratio depending on how bad the haze is.
In some cases, you can add alcohol and mix the three using the following ratio:
- 1 cup of distilled water
- 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
- 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol
Put the mixture in a spray bottle and use microfiber towels or rags to wipe down your windshield.
2. Aerosol glass cleaner
Aerosol cleaners are among your best options if you want to make your windshield as clear as possible. They have zero CFC propellants, are pre-mixed. and don’t require any measuring. They are also made with recycled metal and can be easily recycled in turn, and they are labeled in compliance with EPA, DOT, and OSHA regulations.
3. Magic eraser
You can’t go wrong with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Yes, it’s abrasive, but it won’t leave scratches on the surface of your windshield. Simply dip it in water and let it go to work. It does a great job of removing substances, like smoke residue or off-gas, that have stuck to your windshield.
4. Ammonia-free glass cleaner
You have plenty of options as far as glass cleaners go, but be sure to choose one that doesn’t contain ammonia. Using ammonia-based cleaners exposes you to fumes that can be very harmful to your health.
5. Rubbing alcohol
Some good old rubbing alcohol can save the day when traditional glass cleaners don’t work. It’s a great option for removing substances that are responsible for windshield haze.
Application tips
Spray the cleaner directly on the towel so you don’t oversaturate your windshield.
Wipe your windshield using up-and-down motions. (Follow this tip as well when cleaning your windows.)
Preventing windshield haze
How about not having to remove windshield haze? Or at least reducing the number of times that you have to remove windshield haze?
Here are effort- and time-saving ways to prevent windshield haze and improve visibility:
Windshield cover, or sunshade
This is a great solution to off-gassing, as it prevents the temperature inside your car from rising. Low temperatures stop the release of oily airborne contaminants that come from interior parts such as seats, dashboard, and carpet or floor mats.
Rain repellent
Rain repellents are products designed to keep water off your windshield when you’re driving in the rain, giving you perfect visibility—sometimes even making it possible not to turn on the wipers. They also help prevent windshield haze and make it easier to remove ice, tree sap, and bugs from your windshield.
When applying rain repellent, make sure your windshield is clean and dry. If you’re applying the product outdoors, do so in dry weather, with temperature no lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re applying the repellent indoors, be sure to keep the area ventilated. Also, don’t forget to wear gloves for protection.
For the best result, apply 3 coats of repellent:
Apply the first coat in circular motions, and then let dry for 5 minutes.
Apply the second coat in sweeping horizontal motions, followed by a drying time of 5 minutes.
Apply the third coat in vertical lines, and then allow another 15 minutes of drying time.
Taking good care of your car helps prevent a lot of problems—some of which can put you, as well as other motorists who share the road with you, in danger. Windshield haze is one problem that can be easily solved and prevented. Following the tips in this article should help you stay safe and avoid unnecessary repair expenses.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for great savings when it comes to necessary repairs for your car, some of our products may just suit your needs. Check them out today, especially if your manufacturer’s warranty is running out soon.