Summer is coming, and the hot weather heats up the interior of cars to such a degree that it can be deadly. In fact, the interior can climb up to 172 degrees. It’s hot enough to burn someone getting in.
One of the best benefits of window tint is that it helps with the heat. Window tints with metallic particles help reflect away the heat, while carbon tinting blocks it. There are a few different options to choose from.
If you want the longest lifespan out of your tint, you need to learn how to clean tinted windows properly. Keep reading to learn about how to do this.
Types of Tinted Windows
There are different types of window tints that require different approaches to cleaning. These types include:
- Dyed window tint
- Metalized window tint
- Hybrid window tint
- Carbon window tint
- Ceramic window tint
- Crystalline window tint
You cannot use a generic glass cleaner on any of these window tints.
Tinted Window Cleaning Products
Using a generic window cleaning agent on tinted windows is a recipe for disaster. They often contain chemicals that degrade the adhesive in the window tint. Over time, exposure to these chemicals will cause the tint to bubble up or peel and eventually rip off.
The right cleaning products for tinted windows should be ammonia-free. There are even some tinted window cleaning products that come as wipes, making the process more convenient. The product doesn’t have to be expensive — even a pH neutral dishwashing soap will work.
You can view these window tint suppliers for an idea of more window tinting cleaning products.
Other Cleaning Accoutrement
If you choose tinted window cleaning wipes, you negate the need for extra cleaning supplies. If you’re using a solution, however, you will need a microfiber cloth or clean cotton rag to wipe the windows.
After washing the windows, make sure to dry them with a clean microfiber cloth. This will prevent streaking. You can also use a credit card wrapped in a microfiber cloth to squeeze air bubbles out of the tint.
How to Clean Tinted Windows
Before you think about cleaning your tinted windows, make sure enough time has passed for the tint to cure. This can take between 7 to 30 days, depending on the temperature and humidity in your region.
If you are washing your entire car, save the windows for last. Choose a shady area to clean the car so the cleaning solution doesn’t dry too quickly as you wash the windows. Next, spray the cleaner onto the cleaning cloth directly, wipe the windows, and dry them with another cloth.
The Lifespan of Tinted Windows
Learning how to clean tinted windows properly will help extend the lifespan of the window tint. You may either shop online or head to your local automotive store to check out the available tinted window cleaning products. Try to keep a routine of cleaning your windows every few weeks.
If you found this guide helpful, check out the other automotive articles on our page.
