Over time and with constant car use, your windshield may accumulate dirt that cannot be removed simply with the windshield washer fluid. At this point, it becomes necessary to manually clean the windshield to improve visibility and drive safely.
Below, we will discuss how to clean your car’s windshield, both inside and outside, from our professional perspective. At Ralarsa, car glass workshop, we are windshield experts with more than 40 years of experience in windshield repair and replacement. Is your windshield dirty? Don’t worry — we can help!
Steps to clean the windshield
Rainwater or windshield washer fluid are some of the aids that help keep the glass clean for longer periods, but over time they are not enough to remove all dirt from the surface.
By following a few steps, cleaning becomes easier. These steps are key not only to clean the windshield but also to keep a clear view for longer.
- Apply water. Give an initial rinse with water to remove surface dirt, leaving only the most embedded residues. This also prepares the surface for cleaning products.
- Wipe with a cloth. Once the water has done its job, use a synthetic cloth specially designed for glass cleaning to wipe the windshield until all residue is gone.
- Apply glass cleaner. This is the time to use your product. There are many commercial glass cleaners available, but you can also make a homemade solution mixing water, vinegar, soap, grease remover, and ammonia. Be careful with tinted windows, as this combination can reduce their tinting effect.
- Remove the product. Let the cleaning solution sit on the glass for a while, then rinse with water, ensuring no product or stains remain.
- Dry with a cloth. After rinsing, use a cloth or kitchen paper to make sure no areas are left wet.
When finished, it’s advisable to avoid direct sunlight on the freshly cleaned glass. Strong sun can dry the windshield too quickly and cause streaks. It’s better to let the car sit in the shade for a few minutes.
How to clean the windshield from inside?
After cleaning the windshield outside, you may still see smudges or fogging. This could mean your interior windshield also needs cleaning. Now that you know how to clean your car’s windshield, the process for the inside will be similar.
The key difference is you will use warm water to help defog the glass. Do not apply the water directly to the windshield — instead, mix it with liquid detergent and a little vinegar, then apply it with a cloth.
Most cars have a built‑in defogging system inside. This is a quick solution when humidity fogs the glass, especially in autumn and winter. However, sometimes this is not enough and deep cleaning is required to make it more effective.
Ralarsa, experts in car windshields
The windshield is one of the most critical parts of a car for safe driving. It is the driver’s full frontal view, which is why a well‑maintained windshield is key, especially on days with poor weather conditions.
If after cleaning, your windshield still looks dirty, it could be too worn. This may lead to cracks, reduced visibility, and a higher risk of accidents. In such cases, we strongly recommend taking your car to a glass workshop so professionals can inspect its condition.
At Ralarsa, we are specialists in car glazing. We offer all kinds of windshield services: repairs, replacements, and rain‑repellent treatments. All are designed to improve your visibility and safety while driving. Now that you know how to clean your car’s windshield, if you want to learn how to further optimise its performance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to seeing you!
