Should You Wash Your Windows Before Tinting Them?

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made on our website.

Tinting your windows can be a great way to keep the light out of your car and improve your privacy while you drive. And you want it to last for a long time. So should you wash your car windows before making an appointment to have them tinted?

While washing your windows before having them tinted isn’t required, it is a good idea to ensure the film will adhere properly to your car window. You can do this by using soap, water, and a bit of cleaner the morning before your window tinting appointment.

So if your appointment for window tinting is coming up, you might also want to pencil in a car wash in your planner. So now, let’s look at some more information about washing your car windows before tinting. 

Should You Wash Your Car Windows Before Getting Them Tinted?

Male auto wrapper with blade, car tinting film

You don’t necessarily have to wash your windows before taking your car in for tinting, but you shouldn’t arrive with them especially dirty. The person performing your window tinting will be happy to clean off small dust that will affect the adherence of the tint but know they will not give your car window a deep cleaning.

Plus, arriving with clean windows to your tinting appointment will also ensure you have maximum visibility after the tinting is performed. Cleaning your windows also ensures the tint will adhere properly to the window and last its entire life rather than peeling off after a few weeks or months. 

This is why you should plan to take your car to a car wash to wash your windows properly before taking them to get tinted. Or at least wash them at home in the morning before you take your car in for its appointment. A simple wipe down with a microfiber cloth (on Amazon) and Windex (also on Amazon) is all it will take to prep them for tinting.

What is the Best Cleaning Solution for Car Windows?

Cleaning your windows before a window tinting service is a bit like cleaning your windows for the last time. Once the window tint is in place, you will clean it rather than the window itself.

Therefore, prior to your window tinting appointment, while you can use just soap and water to clean your windows, you should also use an ammonia-containing product like Windex to ensure you get the best streak-free shine possible. 

Not to mention that after your window tinting, you won’t be able to use this product on your window anymore, as it destroys the tinting film, so you might as well use it one last time while you can. 

Should You Get Your Windows Tinted the Same Day?

It is perfectly okay to get your windows tinted the same day that you wipe them clean. Just ensure that you don’t use any wax products, as these will prevent the tint from adhering to the window.

Cleaning your window the morning before your appointment is best as it will ensure the window is as clean as possible when you arrive. It is also polite to show up to your appointment with your car windows as clean as possible. 

How Long Do Tinted Windows Last?

Tinted windows will last a very long time, which is why the question of getting them cleaned is so important. If taken care of well, tinted windows will last anywhere from five to ten years. 

The length of time your window tint lasts will vary greatly depending on the quality of the tint you have installed in the first place. Remember that you will get what you pay for, and an excellent quality window tint may cost a bit more upfront, but it will last longer. 

You will know it is time to replace your window tint when bubbles start to form beneath the surface. Some window tints come with a warranty, so this is something to keep in mind when you see the bubbles begin to form. 

Additionally, if you start to notice scratches or scrapes on your window tint, this is another sign that they need to be replaced. 

Final Thoughts on Should You Wash Your Windows Before Tinting Them

Male worker applying car tinting film

Overall, it is best if you take the time to wash your car windows with soap, water, and an ammonia-based solution before taking your car to get tinted. Doing this the morning before your tinting appointment is absolutely okay and will help your window tint last for the entire 5-10 years. 

Leave a Comment