How to Clean Smoke Residue off Car Windshields

by Editorial Team

If you are a smoker and you have a habit of smoking in your car (particularly with the windows up), then you have probably noticed a smoke residue built up on the interior windshields of your car. If you drive the same car every day, it may not be immediately apparent. Once you sit in a non-smoker's car, however, you can easily tell the difference. A hazy windshield not only detracts from the clean look of your car, it also poses a safety hazard, particularly when driving in inclement weather or at night. Here are some ways you can clean smoke residue off your car's windshields.

Step 1

Approach the interior front windshield from the passenger's seat to avoid obstruction from the steering wheel.

Step 2

Begin trying to remove the smoke residue using a household glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Microfiber leaves behind less lint than other cloths.

Step 3

Try a vinegar and water solution if the household cleaner doesn't take the smoke residue off. Many people advocate applying it with a black-and-white newspaper. The newspaper ink acts like a glass polisher and no lint is left behind on the windshield.

Step 4

Give rubbing alcohol or chrome polish a try if the traditional glass cleaners don't work.

Step 5

Take your car for a professional detailing if you can't resolve the problem. Talk to the detailers about your smoke residue issue beforehand.

Step 6

Help prevent the problem by avoiding smoking with the windows up or only cracked slightly. If possible, avoid smoking in the car altogether.

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