Caring for Your Tinted Car Windows: Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Tinted car windows are really cool for lots of reasons. They help keep your car cooler on hot days, stop the sun from damaging your seats and dashboard, and even protect you in accidents. Also, they give you more privacy when you're driving or parked up.
But to keep all these benefits, you've got to look after your tinted windows properly. Unlike normal windows, tinted ones have a special film on them that's easily damaged by harsh cleaners. So, when you're cleaning them, you need to be gentle.
Use a soft cloth or sponge with a mild soap and water mix to clean your tinted windows. Don't use strong chemicals from household cleaners, as they can ruin the tint. Just remember to be careful when cleaning, and your tinted windows will stay looking great for a long time.
Caring for Your Tinted Windows after Installation
Before you even get your window tint, it's important to know how to look after it once it's been put on your car. This initial care period is super important because you want to make sure you don't accidentally damage or mess up the tint.
- Wait for 72 Hours
The biggest rule during this time is to avoid lowering your windows for at least 72 hours after the tint has been installed. Why? Well, the tint isn't just a sticker it's a thin film with adhesive on the back. To set properly, it needs a bit of time. So, during those first few days, don't roll down your windows to prevent the tint from shifting.
- Why Wait?
When the tint is applied, it's done using a mixture of soapy water. This helps stop the adhesive from sticking to the glass straight away. After it's put on, there'll still be some of this solution under the film. As it dries, it helps the tint stick in place. If you lower your window before it's all dried up, you might mess up the tint.
- Patience with Cleaning
Just like with rolling down your windows, you need to be patient with cleaning too. Wait at least 72 hours before giving your windows a good clean. Again, this is because you don't want to disturb the solution that's helping the tint stick. The windows will get a clean during the installation process, and any foggy or cloudy bits you notice right after tinting will disappear as the solution dries up.
Gentle Cleaning Tips for Tinted Windows
When it comes to cleaning your car, especially your tinted windows, you've got to be careful. Just like you wouldn't use harsh cleaners on your dashboard and plastic trim, you shouldn't use them on your tinted windows either. Why? Because tinted windows aren't just glass they're made of plastic film. So, treat them gently, just like you would with soft plastic surfaces inside your car.
- No Harsh Chemicals
Steer clear of common household cleaners like alcohol wipes, hand sanitizer, or ammonia based window cleaners. These can be too harsh and might damage the tinted film on your windows. Also, avoid using rough scrubbing mitts or sponges that could scratch the film and make your windows less clear. Instead, keep it simple warm water and soft cloths are all you need to get rid of dirt and grime.
- Special Cleaners for Stubborn Stains
If there are tough stains that won't budge with just water, use a car window cleaner specifically made for the job. Look for products that are gentle on your tinted windows and won't cause any harm. Spray the cleaner onto a microfiber cloth, not directly onto the window, to avoid any unwanted streaks or overspray on the rest of your car.
- Avoid Paper Towels
Avoid the paper towels when cleaning your tinted windows. They can leave behind lint and create streaks and smudges. Stick to using microfiber cloths for a streak free shine. By following these simple tips, you'll keep your tinted windows looking pristine without any damage or hassle.
Hygienic the Weather Stripping
The rubber seal around your car windows, also known as the weather stripping, is often forgotten by many car owners when it comes to cleaning. But neglecting it can lead to problems. As you roll your windows up and down, dirt, rocks, and grime from the rest of your window surface can get stuck in the weather stripping. This buildup can then grind against your windows, causing damage to the tinted film.
- Detailed Cleaning
Make sure to give this area a good clean to prevent any potential damage to your window tint. Use a detailing product for the job. This advanced interior detailing spray not only cleans but also leaves behind a glossy layer of protectants and UV inhibitors. This helps to keep the weather stripping from drying out and becoming brittle over time. Also, it makes future cleaning much easier.
By taking the time to clean the weather stripping regularly, you'll not only protect your window tint but also keep your car looking its best for longer.
Prevent Damage Before it happens
Sometimes, preventing damage to your window tint can feel like a tough task, but a lot of it actually comes down to being careful when getting in and out of your car.
- Mind the Sharp Stuff
Take care when loading or unloading sharp objects in your car. Even a small slip-up can lead to scratches or tears in your tinted windows.
- Handle Seatbelts with Care
When taking off your seatbelt, do it gently. If you let it snap back, it can hit the window and cause damage to the tint. This is especially important to remember because seatbelt whiplash can cause small chips in the tint that can spoil its appearance and end up costing you money to fix.
- Be Mindful of Your Movements
Remember, accidents can happen when you least expect them, so it's a good idea to get into the habit of being mindful of your movements when getting in and out of your car. By being aware of potential risks, you can help keep your tinted windows looking clean and chip-free for longer.
