Cleaning Tinted Windows: What to Use & When to Hire a Pro

Every home and every office building are different. That means they have different needs, and therefore need to have some different features.

There are various reasons many home and business owners choose tinted windows. But while this option provides several benefits to homes, offices, and especially cars, window tinting changes the way you have to clean your windows.

Tinted windows have filters that keep out UV light and provide a protective shade. This tint is vulnerable to common DIY cleaning methods, meaning mistakes are also common. Protect the film of the window tinting you paid for so you can reap those benefits for as long as possible.

Here’s a short guide to explain how to properly care for cleaning tinted windows yourself and when you may need to hire a professional.

What to Use When Cleaning Tinted Windows

There are two things you can use to get the job done if you prefer doing things yourself: your cleaning solution and your tools.

1. Use Mild Cleaning Solutions

There are many at-home cleaning solutions made with harsh chemicals such as ammonia. That’s why you notice a strong smell when cleaning inside. In addition to the severe reaction those chemicals have on your nose, they have a punitive result on window tinting as well.

Solutions with those strong chemicals could damage the film that tints the windows, making them more likely to crack or scratch and reducing the effectiveness you’re paying for when you buy window tinting. The wrong cleaning solutions make smaller mishaps worse.

Choose products that have mild ingredients. Specifically, look for ammonia-free products and avoid other harsh chemicals, like bleach. If you can’t find products that you’re confident will be safe on your window tint, you can use distilled water with a mild dish soap. Vinegar is also a useful ingredient to add to your homemade cleaning solution.

2. Use Soft Window Cleaning Tools

In addition to using the correct solutions or cleaning products, remember the tools that you plan to use for cleaning and drying your windows. When cleaning windows yourself, try to use a soft-edged squeegee or a soft sponge rather than anything sharp.

Some DIYers use razor blades to chip away at tough smudges and grime. Not only should you avoid using blades on any tinted windows, but you should also keep away from squeegees that have sharper edges. That way you can prevent any scratching or peeling of the film.

3. Drying Matters

Use a microfiber cloth to dry the windows rather than air drying, drying with newspaper, or drying with paper towels.

Should I Hire a Professional?

While the safest ways to clean tinted windows may seem simple, it’s also extremely easy to make mistakes that can damage the tinting and cost you down the line. Many of the methods used in more general window cleaning don’t apply to the specific needs involved in cleaning tinted windows.

For everyday Americans just trying to finish their everyday tasks, cleaning tinted windows can be time-consuming and stressful. Hiring local professionals is always an option for those who don’t have the time or the confidence to take on this task.

Professionals have proven experience working with tinted windows. That experience and skill not only saves you money by preventing harmful errors and damage but saves you time and allows you to focus on other important matters.

Additionally, professional window cleaners have the correct equipment and cleaning solutions. They also have the safety knowledge necessary for these jobs. For example, DIYers might not have the proper ladders, braces, and harnesses needed to safely clean the windows. The cost of a professional window cleaner is often worth the peace of mind in avoiding long-term costs, stress, and dangers.

Hire Fish Window Cleaning

Whether you own a home or a business, it’s important that your space looks the way you want it to and that you’re able to use that space the way you need to use it.

Fish Window Cleaning has been servicing residential and commercial customers around the nation for decades. That long history has introduced a variety of experiences and areas of expertise — including protecting and cleaning tinted windows.

Contact your local Fish Window Cleaning today to get a free estimate for your window cleaning needs!