How To Clean, Defrost, and Defog Your Windshield Like A Pro

Despite it always being in your view, your windshield probably doesn’t get the love and care it deserves. That’s a pity because a clean windshield is a safe one. Keep your interior windshield free of dirt, debris, frost, and fog with the following simple steps.

Make sure you choose the right windshield wipers, too!

HOW TO CLEAN INSIDE OF YOUR WINDSHIELD

Most car washes can adequately clean your windshield’s exterior, but the inside is subject to different conditions. As your vehicle heats up, plastic from your interior, along with other particulates, stick to the glass.

To clean your interior windshield, you’ll need:

• Two waffle weave microfiber cloths (dedicated to this purpose)

• Glass cleaner, DIY or store bought

• Nitrile gloves (optional)

You can also utilize handy tools, such as a handle with a microfiber pad, that fits the windshield’s curve.

To make your own DIY windshield cleaner, combine the following (in this order) and put into a plastic spray bottle:

1. 1 cup distilled water

2. 1 cup isopropyl alcohol

3. 2 tbsp distilled white vinegar

Shake to mix the solution thoroughly.

Here are the steps to clean the inside of your windshield:

1. Put on your gloves (if using them) and prepare your tools and chemicals

2. Soak one microfiber cloth with your cleaner of choice

3. Scrub windshield to remove dirt in a horizontal motion (use circular motions for stubborn spots)

4. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to polish in smooth, straight lines

We recommend you start on the passenger side, which has the best windshield access, and then move to the driver side.

HOW TO DEFOG YOUR WINDSHIELD

Fogged windshields are irritating and unsafe as they block your field of vision. Even if you don’t live in a region that experiences cold temperatures regularly, you may still experience a foggy windshield.

Windshields fog up due to warm, moist air hitting the cold surface of the glass. This moist air can come from a variety of sources, including the breath of passengers, wet carpet or clothing, and dirty cabin filters.

Here are some quick steps to defog your windshield:

1. Turn on your windshield defrost button (usually an icon of a window with squiggly arrows)

2. Raise the A/C temp to hot so warm air can absorb moisture

3. Turn off air recirculation to let fresh, dry air in

4. Open your windows a little to allow dry outside air in

You can also keep a box of baking soda in your vehicle to act as a natural dehumidifier and deodorizer!

HOW TO DEFROST YOUR WINDSHIELD

Frost forms on your windshield when air temperatures drop to the dew point (the temperature when air condenses into vapor) and meet the freezing or below freezing temperature of your windshield. Not all freezing temperatures will create frost as it depends on the amount of moisture in the air!

Here is how to defrost your windshield:

1. Start the engine and your defroster (set to high on your windshield)

2. Ensure air recirculation is off and turn on your heat

3. Let your vehicle warm up to help start melting the ice

4. Scrape remaining ice from your windshield with an ice scraper or chemical solution

Do not use hot (or cold) water on your windshield! It can cause cracks!

Don’t forget to brush any snow or ice off the top of your vehicle before moving as the flying snow and ice shards create a safety hazard for vehicles behind you.

De-icing solutions are also available for purchase to help you remove ice more easily. Simply apply and begin to scrape. You can also spray your windshield the night before to prevent build up in the first place.

You can also make your own DIY de-icing solution with ingredients commonly found in the home. Here’s how:

1. Add two parts isopropyl alcohol to one part water

2. Add a few drops of dish soap

3. Add into a plastic spray bottle

You can also dilute white vinegar with water instead of using alcohol and soap.

Ready to roll?

Windshield wipers are one of the most overlooked safety tools on your vehicle, and they can make a world of difference when the weather gets rough. Check out our picks of the best winter wiper blades!

If you’re still not sure, give us a ring or drop in and we’ll help you get the best option possible for you and your vehicle.

Walk-ins are always welcome but we encourage you to buy and make your appointment online first. Buy and book online to save time in-store!

For more information on this and other tire and wheel services, check out our YouTube Channel or reach out to us on X, Facebook and Instagram.