The Mistake 90% of Drivers Make When Cleaning Their Windshields

Most drivers overlook one important part when washing their car windshield.

You may have already complained about the efficiency of your windshield wipers. You turned them on only to realize that there were still many streaks on your car's windshield. Your wiper blades may have been too old or their rubber too dirty. But it's also possible that the other side of your car's large window remained dirty and prevented you from having good visibility.

Many drivers pay great attention to the exterior condition of their windshield, cleaning it regularly, but neglect the interior. However, it also gets dirty over time and can significantly impede driving – especially with sun glare – when a thin, greasy film forms on the glass.

It's therefore essential to remember to thoroughly clean the inside of the window as soon as any traces remain visible. But before you start, always remember to wipe it down first to remove dust, which is often very present in the passenger compartment of a car. Then, take a clean microfiber cloth and a window cleaner, or a homemade mixture of water and white vinegar, for example. Spray the product directly onto the cloth—never onto the window to avoid streaks on the dashboard—and make circular or "Z"-shaped movements, making sure to press firmly on the most stubborn marks.

Although access is often more difficult, it is important to thoroughly wipe the cloth into the corners of the window, especially at the bottom, where dirt most often accumulates. Once the window is thoroughly cleaned, repeat the process but this time with a second dry cloth to remove all traces of product and obtain a glare-free surface. While this cleaning requires a few minutes of effort, it doesn't cost much and is essential for the driver to be able to clearly see everything that is happening in front of them.

In France, the Highway Code provides for a fine of up to 90 euros if your visibility is deemed insufficient by the police. Most of the time, this violation is observed when the outside of the window is particularly dirty or when a driver drives with ice or snow on their windshield. But regular maintenance of the inside of the window at least allows you to drive more peacefully and avoid unpleasant surprises.