Dirty windows are a pain, and they can be unsafe too if they become too dirty for a driver to be able to see out. But while many ways are suggested to clean your car windows, not all will deliver streak-free results. This is why you should consider a magic eraser when washing your car windows.
A magic eraser on your car windows can effectively clean them without leaving pesky streaks. It’s important to be careful, however, as a magic eraser isn’t safe for tinted windows or your vehicle’s painted surfaces.
Wondering where you might be able to use a magic eraser on your car safely? Let’s look at some information about magic erasers and how to use them to properly clean your car windows.
What is a Magic Eraser?
A magic eraser (on Amazon) is a special type of sponge known to help remove some of the toughest messes. Made with melamine foam using a special compound, these special sponges are usually used for stain removal.
But this is anything but an ordinary sponge; the compounds used to make magic erasers include hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen, three ingredients that combat stains without damaging the surface the stain is on. Usually, you just add water and scrub, and the stain is gone.
Should You Use a Magic Eraser on a Car Window?
Magic erasers are perfectly fine to use on the outside of car windows. Using a microfiber cloth, you simply brush the window free of dust, apply a little water, and scrub with the magic eraser.
Be careful, however, as magic erasers should not be used on interior windows that have been tinted. This is because the magic erasers are made of material that can be a bit abrasive and scratch the tint. You are better off using a microfiber cloth for the interior windows.
Do Magic Erasers Leave Streaks?
Magic erasers are one of a few methods of cleaning your car windows that doesn’t leave any visible streaks as long as you use the proper cleaning product with it.
Remember, the magic eraser is a cleaning product on its own, so you shouldn’t need more than a misting of water to get that streak-free shine on your windows. However, if you feel you need something more, a gentle, non-ammonia cleaner is recommended.
Do Magic Erasers Damage Car Paint?
While a magic eraser works well for cleaning your car window, care should be taken so that it does not come in contact with the paint on your vehicle. When wet, magic erasers become very coarse, like sandpaper, damaging your paint.
This is why magic erasers are never recommended for cleaning windows that have been tinted, as this film is very delicate and could easily get scratched. Instead, you should use light pressure when washing your windows anywhere near the edge where the magic eraser could come in contact with the paint.
What Are Some Alternatives to Magic Eraser?
Magic erasers aren’t the only way to clean your car windows, and for those worried about possibly damaging their paint job, it is recommended to try a different method of cleaning your car windows.
Microfiber Towels
Microfiber towels (on Amazon) are one of the best ways to clean your car windows. These towels are soft while also being absorbent, meaning they won’t damage any aspects of your vehicle but will still give you that streak-free view. Paper towels should be avoided as they tend to leave streaks and dust.
Microfiber towels are considered the top way to clean your car windows because they are safe for all surfaces of your vehicle as long as they are paired with the right cleaning solution.
Detailing Mitt
A detailing mitt (on Amazon) contains a special type of clay that cleans the windows of all dirt and grime. While effective, the detailing mitt is too harsh to use on tinted windows, which means you can only use it on the exterior of your vehicle.
It is also recommended to test a single window or section of the window before using the mitt on your entire vehicle to ensure you know how to use it properly and won’t damage the glass.
Old Towel
Have an old towel that is too ratty to use? This can be cut into smaller pieces that are perfect for cleaning your car windows. While they won’t be as absorbent as a microfiber cloth and may not be safe for all tinted windows, they can be used on almost any other part of your vehicle.
The critical thing to remember is that the towels for cleaning your car windows should be dedicated, as you don’t want the same rag you use to clean up the oil chain on your bike to get oil on your windows accidentally.
Final Thoughts on Using a Magic Eraser on a Car Window
A magic eraser is an easy and effective way to clean your car windows, but you need to be aware that it isn’t safe for all surfaces in your vehicle. But as long as you steer clear of the paint job and any tinted surfaces and watch the pressure you are applying; you shouldn’t have any issues using a magic eraser to get your car windows streak free.