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How to Clean Windows With Tinted Film: A Step-by-Step Guide
Do you find seeing out of your car's windows difficult due to their tinted safety glass? If you are tired of the smudges, dirt, and grime turning your clear views into a foggy mess, it is time to take action and learn how to clean tinted windows. In this blog post, we'll show you the best step-by-step way to get crystal-clear windows and get back to see the road ahead without obstructions. Let's get started!
Preparing to Clean your Tinted Window Film
When preparing to clean your tinted window film, it is essential to consider the type of film you have installed. Cleaning supplies and methods vary greatly depending on how the film was put on and what kind of film was used. For instance, if your tinted window film was static-clinging to the window, you will require different cleaning supplies than if you had applied the window film using an adhesive. Also, films that are less good may not be as resistant to some cleaning products and need less harsh cleaners.
It is vital not to use sharp or abrasive tools on any window film, as these can damage or scratch the surface. Instead, if you buy the cleaning supplies recommended by your installer, you can keep the film from getting damaged over time.
This minor step is commonly overlooked but ensures a cleaner surface when scrubbing away the dirt, grime, bug, and bird droppings that build up over time. If any particularly stubborn dirt cannot be removed with a cloth or paper towel, use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth to scrub in circular motions until everything has been eliminated gently.
Cleaning Windows with Tinted Film
For basic dirt and dust buildup, use a nonabrasive sponge or cloth to wipe away particles without causing any harm to the film. Fill a bucket with warm water and add mild detergent or car wash soap to reduce surface tension on the glass, which releases stuck dirt more effectively. Ensure that no sharp objects are in the solution - using materials such as steel wool could cause abrasion on the tinting film. Use medium pressure when cleaning with a squeegee or microfiber cloth, so you don't pull up pieces of the tinting material.
On the other hand, tough stains need stronger cleaning products and should be dealt with carefully. In these cases, do spot tests by applying small amounts of cleaner to an inconspicuous window area before proceeding with a complete application. If there are any issues with discoloration or fading after use, switch to less abrasive products to avoid further damage.
No matter what method one chooses for cleaning windows with tinted film, rinse all excess soapy residue with clean water once done.
- The Solution Spray Method
The Solution Spray Method is an incredibly easy and efficient way to clean tinted windows. The process requires a cleaning solution, water, and microfiber clothes.
The first step is to mix your cleaning solution with warm water in a spray bottle or bucket. Then, use one tablespoon of cleaner for every quart of warm water to create the perfect blend. You can also purchase premixed window cleaner at any local store if you prefer to avoid making your own.
Next, take a clean microfiber cloth and lightly mist the inside of the window with your cleaning solution. Then, with the microfiber cloth still in hand, move it in small circles over the glass to distribute the product.
Then, take a damp microfiber towel and rub it in straight lines from top to bottom, removing the product from the surface of the glass. Repeat this process until all dirt and residue are removed from the window. Lastly, remove any remaining streaks with a clean, dry microfiber towel for an even finish.
Now that you understand how to use the solution spray method let's discuss the streak-free cloth method.
- The Streak-Free Cloth Method
For this method, always begin by lightly wiping the glass with the dry end of your cloth before wetting it. Next, thoroughly dampen your cloth with warm or cold water, and add a few drops of soap onto part of the microfiber cloth. Without scrubbing too hard, spread the soapy solution across your window.
Then use a different area of your cloth to rinse any gathered grime from the surface. As you complete sections at a time, flip your clothes to ensure an even spread and try not to let them dry out. To finish with a spotless, streak-free sheen, switch over to the dryer side of your clothes to polish up any remaining moisture on your window panes. For better results when drying, use overlapping movements until all the glass surface is wiped down clearly.
Standard Cleaning Tools Recommended for Tinted Film
Cleaning tinted film requires specialized tools and techniques. Depending on the type of window film and its level of dirt or grime, you may need specific items to ensure your windows remain clean and intact during the cleaning process. Mild liquid soaps or detergents, soft cloths or paper towels, glass cleaners, toothbrushes, lint-free wipes, cotton swabs, and small paint brushes are good ways to clean tinted film.
When choosing something to clean tinted film, it mustn't be abrasive. Glass cleaners with ammonia are not recommended, as they can damage the surface of the tinted film. Also, some glass cleaners contain alcohol, which may be strong enough to damage the film's ability to stick to the window, causing the tint to change color or bubble. Look at the product instructions if you need help determining which cleaning supplies to use.
Another standard cleaning tool recommended for the tinted film is whether to use a squeegee when cleaning windows with a liquid cleaner. While professional window washers often use a squeegee to remove excess liquid from their windows, using a squeegee on an unprotected tinted window could cause scratching or peeling if the edges of the blade aren't soft enough. For homeowners needing experience safely utilizing a squeegee, it's best to stick with other cleaning tools, such as a cotton cloth or paper towel.
Avoiding Streaks on Tinted Windows
Excessive cleaning solutions, dirt and debris buildup, or improper washing techniques often cause streaks. You should use the following steps to avoid streaks and achieve the best possible results when cleaning your tinted windows.
- Clean with Soap and Water: A gentle soapy solution is typically all you need to clean your tinted windows. Avoid using any harsh chemicals that can cause discoloration or streaking. Prepare a solution of warm water and mild liquid soap in a bucket. Dip a soft cloth or nonabrasive sponge into the solution and apply it to your window's surface. When cleaning, use circular motions to work the soap into the tinted window and remove dirt and grime.
- Use Microfiber Cloths: Microfiber cloths are great alternatives to paper towels as they will not leave any lint residue behind like paper towels often do. A dampened microfiber cloth can absorb dirt, dust, and water without spreading them around - this makes for a more accessible, streak-free cleanup!
- Wipe from Top to Bottom: When wiping down your windows, start from top to bottom to prevent any smears or patches from forming along the surface. This technique can help you avoid streaks while ensuring any excess moisture drains away from the tint rather than towards it.
- Avoid using Windex and paper towels: While these products may effectively clear off dirt and debris, they could damage the tinted window film or leave behind streaks. Windex contains alcohols that can dry out your window's tint over time, and paper towels can create lint residue that will be hard to remove if left behind. Therefore, avoiding these products when cleaning your tinted windows is best.
- Finish with Clean Water: After working in your soapy solution and wiping down your windows with a microfiber cloth, rinse off the entire surface with clean water using continuous circular motions until all of the product has been washed off of your window. It is essential to ensure no soap is lingering on the glass after washing, as this could result in streaking or residue once it has dried onto the window film. If necessary, use a lint-free cloth after using water for optimal results.
Looking for a
professional cleaning service to help maintain your tinted car windows? Look no further than Detail Solutions!
Our team of experts is committed to giving you the best possible services for cleaning the tinted film on your car windows. With years of experience in the industry, we understand the importance of maintaining the appearance and quality of your car windows, and we have the tools and expertise to get the job done right.
So why wait? Contact
Detail Solutions today to
schedule your window cleaning appointment and experience the difference our professional cleaning services can make for your car. With our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can trust that your car windows are in good hands. Give us a call at (410) 238-3000 to get started!
Locally owned and operated since 2011, Detail Solutions specializes in interior and exterior vehicle detailing, ceramic coatings, and paint protection film in the Baltimore area.
We also offer special pricing for Tesla owners along with free charging while being serviced on a Level 2 Tesla charger. Contact us today to inquire about any of our services including, wheel off cleaning, headlight restoration, vinyl wraps, chrome delete or a new vehicle service. So get in touch with us today to schedule a FREE estimate.
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