Tinted windows and windshields help block the sun's UV rays without reducing visibility, which is helpful if you spend a lot of time in your car. Aftermarket auto window tinting is the process of applying a thin film to the inside of a car's window. Film tint is not permanent, so you may be curious about how to wash your vehicle's windows without damaging the tint. The following guide offers effective ways to maintain your car's tinted windows.

Products to Use & Avoid

The safest cleaning solution to use on your tinted auto glass is water or a mild detergent. Harsh chemical cleaners like ammonia can strip the tint or cause discoloration, so it's best to avoid using them. As you clean the glass, avoid scrubbing the insides of your windows harshly or using abrasive scrub pads since they can damage the film. Instead, stick with a soft microfiber cloth, as long as the window isn't filthy.

How Often You Should Clean Tinted Windows

It's best practice to wait a month after tinting your car windows, even though the initial application may have a hazy appearance or pockets of liquid beneath the surface. Attempting to clean the windows to address these issues so soon after the installation can damage the film. The haze and water pockets are natural aspects of the drying and curing process and will disappear on their own. 

After the month-long waiting period, you can wash the inside of your windows regularly or as often as you clean the outside of your car, which you can do every two weeks. 

How to Clean Tinted Windows

To clean your tinted windows, open each door and inspect the windows. If soiled areas are present, use a gentle cleanser and a damp cloth to wipe the glass. Then, use a small squeegee to push the remaining water to the bottom of the windows. Use a top-to-bottom motion to ensure total water removal and reduce streaks. Finally, wipe away excess water at the bottom of the windows with a soft, dry cloth.

If you're interested in having your vehicle's windows tinted to improve your UV protection, reach out to EZ Auto Window Tinting in Chandler, AZ. This company specializes in affordable tinting services and auto body repair, auto body painting, and tint removal. Their skilled team uses the best techniques to ensure that each tinting project produces satisfactory results. Visit them online to browse some samples of their work, or call (480) 732-7900 to request a quote.