The side mirrors of our car are essential to help us keep safe while driving, parking or reversing out of parking spot. They usually magnify things for us so we can see with better detail, and so they must remain as clean as possible for us to see what's happening behind us and to our sides. Easier said than done, since they are such tiny mirrors that often get dirtied by wind, road dust and other things in our way. To help you make this an easy matter, we've come up with a guide to help you clean them easily so they shine.
Materials Needed:
Begin by parking your vehicle in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can cause the cleaning solution to evaporate too quickly, leading to streaks and smudges on the mirror surface. Use a soft brush or a clean microfiber cloth to gently dust off the surface of the mirrors. This removes any loose dirt or debris, preventing scratches during the wet cleaning process. Ensure all your cleaning materials—glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, water, bucket, cotton swabs, and optional rain repellent—are ready and within reach.
Now you're ready to start cleaning.
Use a glass cleaner specifically designed for automotive use. Household cleaners, especially those containing ammonia, can damage the mirror’s special coatings. If you must use those, wipe them off immediately after use. Also, instead of spraying the cleaner directly onto the mirror, which can lead to over-spraying and causing damage the mirror's housing, just spray it onto your microfiber cloth.
Clean the mirror using small, circular motions. This technique helps to effectively remove dirt and grime without leaving streaks. Ensure to clean all areas, especially the corners and edges, where dirt accumulates. Apply gentle pressure while cleaning to avoid scratching the mirror's surface. Microfiber cloths are ideal for this task as they are soft and do not leave behind lint or streaks.
Step 4: Dealing with Cloudiness and Stubborn Stains
Stubborn Stains:
For all types of stubborn stains, pre-treatment is a crucial step: Apply a cloth soaked in warm water or a specific automotive glass cleaner to the stain, letting it sit for several minutes. This softens the stain, making it easier to remove. For tree sap, a plastic scraper or a credit card edge can be gently used to lift the sap off the mirror without scratching the surface.
Different stains may require different cleaning solutions:
Cloudiness: For mirrors that are cloudy or have stubborn stains, applying a bit more glass cleaner and using focused circular motions can help restore clarity.
After cleaning, use a clean, dry section of the microfiber cloth to thoroughly dry the mirror. This step is crucial for preventing water spots and ensuring a streak-free finish. Inspect the mirror from various angles to ensure all streaks and smudges are removed. Repeat the cleaning and drying process if necessary until the mirror is completely clear.
A great option that may save you time later on is applying a rain repellent. After cleaning, applying a rain repellent coating to the side mirrors can improve visibility during wet conditions. Follow the product instructions for application and ensure the mirror is completely dry before applying.
