Let Some Time Pass Before Doing Your First Cleaning

When you install your window tint, it's best to wait for at least a week, and at most, thirty days. The difference in time frames depends on the climate in which you live. The weather, amount of sunlight, and humidity all affect this timeframe. 

While your tint cures, you'll likely see a sort of fogginess in the film. Sometimes this haze appears immediately after you install the tint. This effect comes from a small amount of moisture that remains beneath the film. 



When you see these sorts of things, don't rush to clean your tint. Instead, give it some time to finish curing. Once the window cures, you can begin cleaning. 

When To Clean Your Home Window Film

Once your thirty days of waiting come to an end, you're free to start cleaning your tint. However, before you start gathering your supplies, take a quick note about what time of day is the best time for cleaning.

Home window film prevents UV rays from entering the house. This function often means the film heats up during the day. When the film becomes hot, it's not the best time to clean.

Many people like to clean windows in the spring and summer, which tend to bring warmer weather. If you want to clean during these seasons, try to do so at cooler times of the day.



For most people, this will probably mean cleaning in the twilight hours. However, if you're an early riser, you can always clean your windows in the early morning.

Creating Your Cleaning Solution

Now that you know when to clean, let's discuss what you should use for the task. Most people aren't all that particular in their window cleaning tools. They often choose to clean with products like Windex out of habit.

This practice is a mistake. Harsh chemicals, like those used in Windex, don't mix well with window film. When cleaning your window tint, it's best to use a "softer" solution.

In most cases, it's best to simply make your own cleaning solution for window tint cleaning. You don't have to be a world-class chemist to do so, either! Creating a cleaning solution is a straightforward process with affordable ingredients.

First, pour two cups of distilled water into a spray bottle. Add three tablespoons of white vinegar, then half a teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Try to find a mild dish soap with fewer harsh chemicals in it. 

If you find the solution has too much of a vinegar smell, there's a way around it. By adding in a few lemon rinds and drops of essential oil, you can minimize that smell. 



Once you have your cleaning solution, make sure you have the following tools: microfiber cloths, rubber squeegee, telescopic pole (only if you have high windows you can't reach), and a stepladder. Once you have all of these, you can start cleaning at last.

How To Clean Your Home Window Tint

Cleaning window tints is a straightforward process once you have your materials. First, spray your cleaning solution on the window. Once you've sprayed it well, wipe the window slowly and softly with your microfiber cloth.

Don't apply much force when you wipe the window; if there are stubborn spots that you can't seem to remove, spray more of your solution on them. Keep scrubbing the streak until it clears.

When you've cleaned each of your window films, you're ready to squeegee them. Move the brush from top to bottom and side to side, swiping the sudsy water from the window. 

If any suds remain on the windowsill or frame, wipe that residue off with a soft, dry cloth. Lastly, it's time to rinse the windows. For this task, take a spray bottle filled with distilled water and spray the windows.

Use your squeegee to remove any extra water from the window. Next, use a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Be scrupulous as you dry; wet spots will leave noticeable streaks on your film.



The same holds for your windowsills and frames. For tough to reach windows, use a two-way squeegee or sponge on a telescopic pole to clean them. 

Final Maintenance Practices

With regular window maintenance, you can preserve your window tint for 15 or 20 years. While cleaning is an essential part of maintenance, it's not the only step to take. Other, smaller practices help to maintain your residential window tint.

If you have interior window films, use a silicone polish to keep a luscious sheen to your film. This silicone polish helps prevent scratches and burnishes from appearing on your window.

Find A Tinting Company You Can Trust

If you want the best possible look for your home window film, cleaning can go a long way. Scrupulous cleaning of your window tint can clear it and make it shine brilliantly. Moreover, it helps preserve the benefits of your window tint.

However, cleaning can only do so much. If you want the best outcomes for window tinting, find an accomplished window tinting service to install your film.

If you don't know where to start, check out our services! We provide window tinting services in cities throughout Wisconsin. Contact us at TNT Signature Glass Design today for a free estimate. We have two convenient locations in Green Bay and Madison, Wisconsin to better serve our customers.