Streaky, foggy glass is obvious at night and in the rain. The right products and technique give genuinely clear, streak-free glass.
Inside vs. outside glass
Interior glass usually carries a film from off-gassing plastics, smoke or interior dressings, which needs a proper glass cleaner to remove. Exterior glass collects road grime, bugs and sometimes mineral deposits from hard water.
Treat each side separately, with clean towels and dedicated cleaner, so you don't drag dirt from one side onto the other.
Tools and products
Use a quality automotive glass cleaner and low-pile microfibre towels to keep lint and streaks down. Avoid paper towels — they shed fibres and don't lift oily films effectively.
For heavy contamination or water spots, a dedicated water-spot remover or glass polish can be used carefully.
Technique for streak-free results
Work in the shade or on cool glass so the cleaner doesn't flash-dry and streak. For interior glass, spray the cleaner onto the towel rather than the glass, so you don't overspray onto the trim.
Wipe in horizontal strokes inside and vertical strokes outside (or vice versa) — that way, if a streak is left, you instantly know which side it's on.
Clearer glass for longer
For better visibility in rain, a hydrophobic glass coating makes water bead and roll off at speed. AutoZone Detailing can apply one along with a full interior clean.