Can You Wash Your Car Windows After Getting Windows Tinted
So you just got your car windows tinted at Prestons Sun Control, and they look amazing! By now, you’re probably wondering: can you wash your car after getting windows tinted? This is one of the most common questions we hear from customers in Mentor, Ohio.
The short answer is yes, but you need to wait and be careful. Let’s talk about everything you need to know to keep your new tint looking perfect.
Why You Must Wait Before Washing
When we install window tint on your car, the film needs time to stick properly. The tint uses a special glue that takes time to set. If you wash your car too soon, you might damage the tint or cause it to peel early.
Think of it like paint on a wall. You wouldn’t touch wet paint, right? Window tint works the same way. It needs time to dry and bond with your windows before it will hold up against car washes and cleaning.
How Long Should You Wait?
Most window tint needs 3 to 5 days to cure completely. But this depends on a few things:
Weather plays a big role. Hot, sunny days help tint cure faster. Cold or rainy weather in Mentor can slow things down. You might need to wait up to a week in the winter months.
Tint type matters too. Some high-quality films cure faster than others. Our team will tell you exactly how long to wait based on the tint we used on your car.
Window location also counts. Side windows usually cure faster than rear windows because they get more direct sunlight.
What Happens If You Wash Too Soon?
Washing your car too soon after getting windows tinted can cause several problems:
Water can get under the tint. This creates bubbles that look bad and weaken the film. Once water gets trapped, it’s hard to fix.
The tint might peel or slide. If the glue isn’t set, soap and water can make the tint move or come off completely.
You could scratch the surface. The new tint is soft and easy to damage. Rough washing can leave permanent marks.
Streaks and spots might appear. These can be impossible to remove once the tint fully cures.
The Right Way to Wash Tinted Windows
Once you’ve waited long enough, you can wash your car. But tinted windows need special care. Here’s how to do it right:
Use the Right Cleaning Products
Regular glass cleaners can damage window tint. Many of them contain ammonia, which breaks down the tint film over time. Instead, use cleaners made for tinted windows.
You can also make your own cleaner. Mix warm water with a small amount of dish soap(Dawn dish soap is recommended). This gentle mixture won’t hurt your tint.
Choose Soft Cleaning Tools
Never use rough materials on tinted windows. Paper towels and rough cloths or rags can scratch the film. Instead, use:
- Soft microfiber cloths
- Clean cotton rags
- Soft squeegees made for cars
Clean Gently
Don’t scrub hard on tinted windows. Use light pressure and let the cleaner do the work. Start at the top and work your way down. This keeps dirty water from running over clean areas.
Dry Carefully
After washing your car, dry your windows right away. Water spots can damage the tint over time. It is important to use a clean, soft cloth to gently pat the windows dry.
Automatic Car Washes and Window Tint
Many people in Mentor love using automatic car washes. But are they safe for tinted windows?
Touchless car washes are usually okay. These only use water and soap, so they won’t scratch your tint. Just make sure they don’t use harsh chemicals.
Avoid brush car washes. The spinning brushes can scratch or peel your tint. Even if the brushes look soft, they pick up dirt from other cars that can damage your windows.
Hand car washes can work. But make sure the workers know about your tinted windows. Tell them to be gentle and use soft cloths only.
Special Care for the First Month
Your tint keeps getting stronger for about 30 days. During this time, be extra careful:
- Don’t roll windows down unless you have to
- Park in shade when possible
- Be gentle when cleaning inside the car
- Watch for any bubbles or peeling
If you notice problems during this time, contact us right away. We can often fix small issues before they get worse.
Signs Your Tint Is Fully Cured
How do you know when it’s safe to wash normally? Good question! Look for these signs:
- No water spots or hazy areas on the glass
- The tint looks smooth and even
- You don’t have bubbles or lifted edges
- Windows feel smooth to the touch
Professional Tint Care Tips
Our experienced team has tinted thousands of cars in Mentor and the surrounding areas. Here are our top tips for keeping your tint looking great:
Clean regularly but gently. Don’t let dirt build up in the first place, but don’t scrub hard either.
Use high-quality products. Cheap cleaners will likely damage expensive tint. It’s worth spending a little more for the right supplies.
Check for damage often. Small problems are easier to fix than big ones when it comes to window tint.
Park smart. While tint blocks UV rays, parking in shade when possible helps it last longer.
When to Call the Professionals
Sometimes, even with good care, tint can have problems. Call us if you notice:
- Bubbles that won’t go away
- Peeling edges
- Scratches or tears
- Fading or discoloration
Our professional team can often repair minor damage and get your tint looking perfect again.
Keep Your Investment Protected
Window tint is a great investment in your car’s comfort and appearance. With proper care, quality tint can last 10-15 years or more.
Need help caring for your tinted windows? Have questions about washing your car after tinting? Contact our team for expert advice. We’re here to help Mentor drivers get the most from their window tint.Visit our services page to learn more about our window tinting options and aftercare support. Your satisfaction is our guarantee.