The short version
Streaks almost always come from too much product and the wrong cloth. Little glass cleaner, two lint-free microfibre cloths (one damp, one dry) and do not forget the inside , that is where the outgassing plastic film sits.
The inside of the windscreen in particular gets smeary because plasticisers outgas from the plastic and settle as a film. With the right technique the windows get clear, without streaks and without the low sun blinding you.
Clear windows without streaks
Work in the shade
Not in the sun, the cleaner dries on and leaves streaks.
Little cleaner
Apply glass cleaner sparingly to the cloth or window, too much is the main cause of streaks.
Outside crosswise
Outside wipe horizontally first, then vertically when polishing, so you can tell which side still has streaks.
Dissolve the film inside
Thoroughly remove the inside windscreen with glass cleaner and a clean cloth, the outgassing film sits here.
Polish dry
Polish with a dry, lint-free microfibre cloth until the window is clear.
Against fogged windows
A really clean inside windscreen fogs up much more slowly. Never bring greasy interior sprays onto the window, that smears and blinds in the sun.
What helps
What to look for:
- A car glass cleaner or mild liquid soap
- Two lint-free microfibre cloths
- Optionally an anti-fog cloth
Frequently asked
Why does my car window smear on the inside?
How do I avoid streaks?
What helps against fogged windows?
From paint to interior
Clean outside and in , with the right product and the right order.
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