Skip to content 
Why Your Windshield Picks Up Dirt
The inside of your car’s windshield can become dirty due to several reasons, like touching, pet smudges, external pollutants, and off-gassing – a process where trapped chemicals from manufacturing release an oily residue onto the glass.
The Materials You’ll Need
Before you start the cleaning process, make sure to gather the following items:
- Lint-free microfiber rags
- Spray bottle (for homemade solutions)
- Glass cleaner (preferably auto-specific and ammonia-free)
- Distilled white vinegar (for sea salt)
- Rubbing alcohol (for degreasing)
Cleaning Steps
Follow these steps to ensure your windshield is cleaned properly:
- Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Choose one of the following mixtures for your spray bottle:
- 50% rubbing alcohol, 50% water, and a capful of white vinegar
- 70% water, 15% window cleaner, and 15% alcohol
- Wipe Down the Glass: Start by wiping down the glass with a clean, dry microfiber towel to remove any loose dirt.
- Degrease the Windshield: Apply some rubbing alcohol to a different cloth and wipe down the windshield to cut through any oily layers.
- Apply Glass Cleaner: Spray your chosen glass cleaner onto a fresh side of the cloth or a new one. Wipe in circular motions to clean the glass thoroughly.
- Dry Wiping: Finish the cleaning process with up-and-down wipes to make sure the windshield is completely dry and streak-free.
