How to get your car windscreen really clean - and cut the glare

14 May 2026 • 8:19 PM MYT
DPA International
DPA International

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Image from: How to get your car windscreen really clean - and cut the glare
Clean your windscreen from inside, too, for maximum safety while driving. Christin Klose/dpa-tmn

Good visibility is essential when driving so you want a clear windscreen, especially when the sun is shining so you can see past any pollen, dirt or smears.

Take the time to clean off your windscreen and rear window, when necessary and as a regular practise to avoid the build up of pollen or other dirt on your car.

Otherwise, dirt and smears scatter the light shining onto the glass, increases glare, particularly when the sun is low in the morning and evening, says German car association ADAC. The group also suggests drivers not forget to clean the inside of the windows as well.

Grab a simple glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth. If you need more than a standard windscreen cleaner say due to tar stains or fly droppings, look for a special product to remove the residue.

Three cleaning tips

  • When cleaning the inside of the side windows, it's best to lower your windows slightly. That lets you clean the upper areas, which are normally hidden beneath the seals.
  • Clean the windows in the shade if possible to avoid streaks. If you clean the inside vertically and the outside horizontally, it is easier to spot streaks and know where you need to go over them again.
  • After a run through the car wash with the wax programme, remove any wax residue from the windscreen and wipers so that the wipers wipe without leaving streaks.