What Is the Best Way to Clean Car Mirrors?

Like the rest of your car, your cars side mirrors need to be clean and well maintained. If the glass is dirty or filmed over, your view to the rear and the sides is obstructed. What’s the best way to clean mirrors, though? Actually, it’s as simple as cleaning the rest of your car glass. You’ll need the following:

• Good quality glass cleaner
• Lint-free cloth (no newspaper or paper towels)

Of course, there’s more to it than the right tools. There are a few other tips on the best way to clean auto glass, as well as to clean the car itself.

No heat: Move your car into a shady spot and wait for the glass (and paint) to cool down. Hot surfaces can cause the cleaner and water to evaporate very quickly, leaving behind spots and streaks.

Don’t use multipurpose cleaner: Use an actual glass cleaner on your car’s mirrors, windshield, windows and rear glass. Multipurpose cleaners often create suds, which aren’t necessary and can leave streaks and smudges behind. Also, avoid products that contain ammonia, as it can cause drying and other problems.

Go in circles: On a small surface like your side view or rear-view mirror, clean with small circles, rather than diagonal or horizontal wipes.

Spray the cloth: Don’t spray your mirrors directly unless there’s built up gunk you’re trying to soak. Spray the cleaning cloth, and then wipe the mirror. This helps prevent excess cleaner from running into the mirror’s housing.