There are many applications for window tinting and numerous reasons to do so. One of the most popular applications is to auto glass. The application of a window tint to your car can reduce glare, heat or load on your car’s air conditioning, improve your privacy and add aesthetic appeal. 

Window tinting is achieved by the application of a thin plastic film to the car windows and should be treated carefully when cleaning.

When attempting to clean window tinting films, think of the window as a pair of sunglasses and apply the same care as you would when cleaning them. The surface of the window tint film is highly polished and very smooth so requires much less pressure than a normal glass surface would. You should of course ask an expert, but here are some general tips:

The following can be used:

• A PH-neutral soap
• Dishwashing liquid diluted in water 1:100
• Lambswool cleaning mitts
• Sponges
• Cotton rags
• Microfibre cloths
• Rubber bladed squeegees
• Wet chamois with water

The following should not be used:

• Scourers
• Steel wool
• Metal scrapers
• Ammonia based product

Using a soapy sponge or wet chamois, gently wipe down the surface of the tinting film. Once it appears to be clean, use a rubber bladed squeegee to remove the suds and water from the surface. If you do not have a squeegee, you can use a microfibre or cotton cloth to wipe dry and remove streaks. If you follow these guidelines, cleaning your window tinting film will be easy.

Glass tint film can scratch very easily. It is important that you do not use any material with a bristled or rough texture. Even newspaper or paper towel is too course and will result in scratches to the surface of the film. When applied in a rough manner, the wrong cleaning materials can even cause the window tint film to tear or split. The use of strong chemicals to clean your car window tint is also discouraged. Ammonia will react with the properties of the film and cause it to blotch, fade or peel from its glass surface. The safest product to use to ensure a long lasting effect is diluted dishwashing liquid, applied with a soft material as described above.

If you are nervous about achieving a good result and do not want to risk damaging your window tint film while cleaning it, there are professionals who can do the job for you. Be sure to choose a professional whose expertise in treating auto glass that has been fitted with tinted film is proven. Make sure that you ask the cleaner what products and methods they use to do the job before giving the go ahead. Now that you know what should and should not be used to clean window tinting film, there should be very little room for mistakes when communicating with a professional cleaner. If done correctly, whether you do the job or have someone else do it, cleaning your car window tinting film will help preserve its longevity and ensure that your driving experience is improved for many years into the future.