How to Clean Wind screen Rubber Wipers: A Simple Guide for Clearer Visibility
Safe driving requires that your windscreen be kept clean, and maintaining the wiper blades is a frequently neglected aspect of this upkeep. The accumulation of dirt, grit, and grime on the rubber can cause streaks or impaired sight, which can be particularly hazardous during bad weather. Cleaning your wipers on a regular basis helps increase their effectiveness and lifespan. I'll walk you through the easy measures to maintain the best possible condition for your windshield rubber wipers in this blog post.
Why is Cleaning Your Windscreen Wiper Blades Important
Let's quickly review the reasons why cleaning your wiper blades should be a regular component of your auto maintenance before moving on to the steps:
1. Better Visibility: In rain or fog, streaks or spots left by dirty or worn-out wiper blades can impair vision.
2. Extended Lifespan: If you don't clean your blades, you'll need to replace them more frequently because dirt and grime accelerate the deterioration of rubber.
3. Cost Savings: Wiper blades can be expensive to replace every few months, so cleaning them on a regular basis helps save money.Now that you understand its importance, let's examine how to properly clean your windshield wiper blades.Items You'll Need for Wiper Blade Cleaning of you need a few basic supplies to get started. Here's what you should collect:Steer clear of harsh chemicals that can harm rubber by using dish soap or mild detergent.Warm water works best.
Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap or car shampoo with warm water. Dish soap is gentle enough to clean grime without damaging the rubber.
Wipe the Rubber Edge with a Damp Cloth
Add a few drops of vehicle shampoo or mild dish soap to some warm water. Grease can be removed with dish soap without causing any harm to the rubber.Step
Use a moist cloth to wipe the rubber edge.To make a microfiber cloth damp but not drenched, dip it into the soapy water solution and wring it out. The wiper blade's rubber edge can be carefully cleaned using this towel. If it has been a long time since you last cleaned them, you might need to make many passes to get rid of all the dirt and debris.
Inspect the Rubber
After wiping, examine the rubber for any cracks, chps, or signs of wear. If you notice significa damage, it might be time to replace the wip blades. Cleaning can extend the damaged blades won’t perform well regardless of how clean they are.
Remove Stubborn Dirt with Isopropyl Alcohol
Sometimes, road grime or oily residues won’t come off with just soap and water. In this case, use a clean cloth dipped in a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the rubber. Alcohol evaporates quickly and leaves no residue, so it’s safe for rubber. This will help remove any remaining oils and leave your wipers streak-free.
Dry the Blades Thoroughly
Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently pat the blades until completely dry. Drying the rubber prevents water spots and helps maintain its elasticity. If any excess moisture remains, it could freeze during cold weather or cause mildew to form.
Wipe Down the Windscreen
While cleaning your wipers, it’s a good idea to wipe down the windscreen, too. Dirt on the glass can quickly transfer to the wiper blades. Use the same soap and water solution or a glass cleaner to remove any streaks, bugs, or dirt from the windscreen.
Pro Tips for Keeping Your Wiper Blades in Top Condition
Cleaning the rubber blades is essential, but there are a few other tips to keep them in top shape:
Avoid Parking in Direct Sunlight: Prolonged sun exposure dries out rubber, leading to cracks. Park in the shade when possible.
Use a Windshield Sunshade: If shade parking isn’t available, a sunshade can help keep the temperature down, preventing rubber from drying out.
Don’t Use Wipers on a Dry Windshield: Wiper blades are designed to glide over wet surfaces. Using them on a dry windscreen causes friction and wears out the rubber faster.
Replace Blades Every 6-12 Months: Even with proper care, wiper blades should be replaced regularly. They’re relatively inexpensive and essential for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I clean my windscreen wipers?
Cleaning your wipers every couple of weeks is ideal, especially during seasons with heavy rainfall or pollen. Regular cleaning will help extend the lifespan and maintain performance.
2. Can I use glass cleaner on my wipers?
It’s best to avoid strong chemicals on rubber, as they can degrade the material. Instead, use mild dish soap and water or diluted vinegar. Isopropyl alcohol is safe but use it sparingly.
3. My wipers still leave streaks after cleaning. What can I do?
If cleaning doesn’t solve the streaking, inspect the rubber for any nicks or cracks. Worn-out blades won’t perform well, so consider replacing them. Also, ensure your windscreen is thoroughly cleaned, as dirt on the glass can affect wiper performance.
4. Are there alternatives to cleaning if I don’t have time?
If you’re in a hurry, a quick wipe with a damp cloth can help, though it’s not a replacement for a full cleaning. Keeping a microfiber cloth in your car is handy for quick touch-ups on the go.
Why Cleaning Your Wiper Blades Regularly is Worth the Effort
Maintaining your wiper blades may seem like a small task, but it has a big impact on driving safety. Clear visibility is critical, especially in poor weather, and clean wipers help make this possible. By following these steps regularly, you’ll ensure that your wiper blades last longer, work more effectively, and provide better clarity when you need it most.
