Windex window cleaner is a household staple for most people. It’s used to clean windows, mirrors and other surfaces inside and outside of the home. But can you use it on your car? I know you are curious about this because you might have heard that Windex can damage car paint and finishes.
In this article, we will explore whether or not Windex can harm your car and offer some tips on how to safely clean it.
To answer the question “Does Windex damage car paints and finishes?” we must first understand what kind of product it is. Windex is a glass and multi-surface cleaner that contains ammonia. Ammonia is a strong alkaline substance that can be corrosive to some surfaces. That’s why I would advice you never to use Windex on surfaces like granite or stainless steel because it will damage them.
However, car paints is not made of granite or stainless steel. It is made of a substance called clearcoat, which is a type of paint that is applied over the car’s base coat. Clearcoat is much harder and more durable than regular paint, so it can withstand the chemicals in Windex without being severely damaged. But I would advise against using Windex on your car’s paint because the cons of doing that outweigh the pros.
Keep reading to find out about the cons of using Windex on your car’s paint.
Cons of using Windex on car’s paint
There are several reasons why you shouldn’t use Windex on your car’s paint. Examples are:
- Strip away wax
- Dry out paint
- Cause fading
- Make paint more susceptible to damage
Let’s explore each one in detail
1. Strip away the Wax
The first reason why I would advise against you using Windex on your car’s paint is that it will strip away the wax. Wax is a protective layer that is applied to a car’s paint to protect it from dirt, debris, and UV rays. When you use Windex on your car’s paint, it will remove protective layers such as sealants or ceramic coatings and leave the paint vulnerable to damage.
When I was introduced to Windex, I was told that it was a glass and multi-surface cleaner. I was not told about the cons of using Windex on car paint. If I had known about the cons, I would have been more careful with how and where I used it.
2. Dry out the paint
Another reason why you shouldn’t use Windex on your car’s paint is that it will dry out the paint. This is because the chemicals in Windex such as ammonia are harsh and can remove the natural oils from the paint, causing it to become dry and brittle. When this happens, the paint is more susceptible to cracking, chipping, and fading.
You would often notice cracks or chips in the paint of an old car. This is because the paint has become dry and brittle over time and can no longer protect the metal beneath it.
3. Cause Fading
Another issue that can arise from using Windex on your car’s paint is that it can cause the paint to fade. This is because the UV rays will break down the chemicals in the Windex, causing them to become unstable. When this happens, the chemicals will react with the paint and cause it to fade which also makes it lose its glossy finish.
4. Susceptible to damage
The fourth and final reason why you shouldn’t use Windex on your car’s paint is that it will make the paint more susceptible to damage. The chemicals in Windex will break down the clearcoat as mentioned earlier making them thinner and less durable. Once the clearcoat is damaged, it becomes easier for dirt, debris, and UV rays to penetrate the paint and cause damage which will make your car’s paint look dull and faded.
As you can see there are several reasons why you shouldn’t use Windex on your car’s paint. I would advise that you find safer ways to clean your car’s paint. If you must use Windex, make sure to test it on a small area first and be careful not to get any on the car’s clearcoat.
Keep reading to find safer ways to clean your car to make it look its best.
Safest ways to clean your car
There are several safe and effective ways to clean your car’s paint without damaging it. Examples are:
- Washing with soap and water
- Using a microfiber cloth
- Diluting the Windex
Let’s explore each one in detail:
1. Washing with soap and water
The first and most obvious way to clean your car’s paint is with soap and water. This is the safest and most effective way to clean your car’s paint as it will not strip away the wax or dry out the paint. Using soap and water to wash your car’s paint will also remove any dirt, debris, or grime that has built up over time.
I would highly suggest you use Chemical Guys CWS_402_64 Mr. Pink Foaming Car Wash Soap, This is because it is gentle and will not strip away the wax or damage the paint.
2. Using a microfiber cloth
Another safe and effective way to clean your car’s paint is with a microfiber cloth. Microfiber cloths are made of extremely fine fibers that are designed to trap dirt, debris, and grime. When used properly, a microfiber cloth will not scratch or damage your car’s paint.
I suggest you use this cool Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels (16 Inch x 16 Inch) which I found on amazon as they are made of high-quality materials and will not scratch or damage your car’s paint.
3. Diluting the Windex
If you insist on using Windex to clean your car’s paint, You should dilute it with water. This will help reduce the risk of damaging your car’s paint. Simply mix equal parts of Windex and water in a spray bottle and use as you would normally use Windex. Test it on a small area first to ensure it will not damage your car’s paint.
As you can see, there are both safe and effective ways to clean your car’s paint without damaging it. I would suggest you use one of the methods mentioned above to keep your car’s paint looking its best.
Final Thought
Windex is a great product for cleaning many things around your house, but your car’s paint is not one of them. The chemicals in Windex can damage your car’s paint and make it more susceptible to damage. I would suggest you use any one of the safest ways mentioned above to clean your car’s paint.
I hope you found this article helpful. If so, please share it with your friends and family members who own cars. Have a great day!
Thanks for reading!