Windshield Cleaning Safety

Keep your windshield clean to decrease your chances of a traffic accident.

A clean windshield is vital when driving as it allows drivers to clearly see what is going on around them. Driving with a dirty windshield is especially dangerous in the early morning and evening times, as the rising or setting sun will glare off of the glass often blinding you to other vehicles, pedestrians and road signs. When cleaning a windshield there are many safety precautions for car owners to follow. These different safety precautions will promote safer driving environments and better driving practices.

Cleaning Chemicals

When cleaning your windshield with soaps, washing fluids or other chemicals, use extreme caution. When handling chemicals always wear gloves and store them away from children and extreme heat. When cleaning your windshield do so with chemicals that don't cause streaks. Streaks can be dangerous for drivers as the sun's glare on the streaks can severely limit visibility.

Cleaning

Use caution when washing a windshield, as at times you may feel the need to stretch or over reach. To help limit the chance of injuries, separate the cleaning area into two halves so that it lessens the extent of over reaching. Windshield washing tools can also help keep you safe during the cleaning process as they extend to help limit the amount of stretching.

Ice

For car owners that live in colder climates, remember that windshields can crack when quickly exposed to extreme temperatures. When cleaning snow or sleet from your windshield keep the heater set to low inside your vehicle. This will ensure that the temperature is not excessive when removing the debris from your windshield and will lessen your chances of cracking the glass. Be careful when chipping ice from the windshield. Excessive force during snow or ice removal can damage the windshield's integrity and cause cracks or breakages.

Windshield Wipers

Before cleaning your windshield inspect your wipers. Wipers on a vehicle should be replaced every year as they help keep the windshield clear between cleanings. A good pair of windshield wipers cleans debris, bird droppings, snow and sleet from the windshield, keeping visibility at its maximum. Always use your wipers when the windshield is wet, as dry wipers create scratches and other damage to the glass.

Hard-to-Remove Debris

When cleaning your windshield you may come across debris that is hard to remove. Bird droppings, dirt and bugs can be a challenge to clean off the glass. Using substances such as nail polish remover or vinegar can help loosen debris that is stuck to the windshield. Debris left on your windshield will not only continue to smear dirt on the glass, but can damage the integrity of your windshield.

References

• Yext Autoglass: Yext Autoglass Article