5 Things Everyone Should Know About Maintaining Your Window Tint

David Wood Window Tinting Blogger • Nov 17, 2022

Maintaining your window tint can help extend its lifespan. Here are a few things you should know about maintaining your car's window tint.

Some window tints can block up to 99% of dangerous, cancer-causing UV rays. Impressive, right?

Even though ultraviolet radiation levels are lower inside a vehicle than when you are in direct sunlight, they can still penetrate through the glass.

With proper window tint, you can protect your skin and your vehicle's interior from damage and fading.

However, the only way you can benefit from car window tint long-term is by maintaining it. Keep reading for tips on maintaining your window tint.

Not only does this product improve your health, but it also adds aesthetic appeal to your vehicle.

Aftercare Tips for Newly Applied Tint

If you recently had your vehicles windows tinted or have an appointment scheduled, following the right aftercare tips is essential.

One tip is to ensure you leave your windows up for a minimum of 48 hours after installing the film. This gives the film time to adhere to the glass. Also, allowing this curing time ensures the film wont peel away when you roll your windows down.

After 48 hours is passed, wipe the windows with a tint-safe cleaner. Dont try to remove bubbles or water pockets. These are normal and will resolve on their own (more on this below).

Tips for Maintaining Your Window Tint

Do you want to make the tint on your car windows last as long as possible? If so, use the tips found here.

1. Clean Your Tinted Windows in the Shade

The last thing you want is streaked car windows. If you have tinted windows, the streaks are even more noticeable than on clear glass.

If you want to prevent streaks, be sure to wash the windows in the shade rather than in direct sunlight.

The sunlight will cause the cleaning products you use to dry quickly. This is what causes streaking.

Washing your windows in the shade helps prevent this outcome.

2. Use the Right Cleaning Products and Tools

After investing in professional tinting for your cars windows, you must ensure the results last. One of the fastest ways to mess up newly installed window tint is by using the wrong cleaning products, tools, or methods.

Be sure you use ammonia-free cleaners on your tinted windows. If you use an ammonia-based product, it will be too abrasive. Over time, it will cause visible wear and discoloration to the tint.

If you cant find a quality ammonia-free cleaner, use plain soap and water. Be sure to use mild soap, which is perfect for tinted windows.

Never use a paper towel on window tinting. These can cause scratches. A better option is a soft microfiber cloth.

You can also use a squeegee to clean your cars window tint or a sponge. With these tools, you wont cause any unwanted scuffs or scratches.

3. Dont Try to Fix Water Pockets or Hazy Film

After having your cars windows tinted, you expect them to be perfect. If you notice haziness or small water pockets under the film, dont assume it is because of faulty installation.

These issues are normal and temporary.

After the film is first applied, your cars windows may look cloudy or hazy because of excess water between the film and glass. This is because the squeegee used for applying this film can remove every single drop.

The good news is that window film is porous. The water will eventually evaporate without you having to do anything.

Even if small pockets occur, they wont stick around for long.

The evaporation process takes time. It also depends on the weather.

For example, if you live in a hot and sunny environment, the film will dry quickly. However, the drying process can take up to a month in other areas.

4. Wait to Clean Your Windows

Dont clean your windows immediately after the tint is applied. It needs time to cure.

When cleaning your windows, use a microfiber cloth or wipe. This should be enough since tint is installed on the vehicles interior.

However, if you have children or pets that tend to touch and sniff the windows, you may need a more thorough cleaning. If this is the case, use a non-abrasive cloth (as mentioned above).

5. Dont Assume Your Window Tint Is Invincible

Modern window tint is durable. It features scratch-resistant qualities and provides protection for day-to-day window use.

However, scratch-resistant and scratch-proof are not the same things. You can accidentally scratch the film in many ways.

Make sure you use caution when you load or unload anything with hard or sharp edges, such as sporting equipment and boxes. Your seat belt can cause damage to window tint, too.