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#1
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OT auto glass cleaning
Today was 6 month wax. Of course, wash beforehand.
It took us a long time but we've finally found a scheme for washing the HOUSE windows (lots of glass, here) without streaking, lint, etc. But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? |
#2
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote:
But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I recently tried some of the yellow Rain-X washer fluid. Smells funny, but works well. -- .. Christopher A. Young learn more about Jesus .. www.lds.org .. .. |
#3
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 8:49 PM, Stormin Mormon wrote:
On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I recently tried some of the yellow Rain-X washer fluid. Smells funny, but works well. I just take my van to the drive-thru car wash. -- Maggie |
#4
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 11:21 PM, Muggles wrote:
On 2/13/2016 8:49 PM, Stormin Mormon wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I recently tried some of the yellow Rain-X washer fluid. Smells funny, but works well. I just take my van to the drive-thru car wash. And that does the inside? Amazing |
#5
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote:
But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 |
#6
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 10:45 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/13/2016 11:21 PM, Muggles wrote: On 2/13/2016 8:49 PM, Stormin Mormon wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I recently tried some of the yellow Rain-X washer fluid. Smells funny, but works well. I just take my van to the drive-thru car wash. And that does the inside? Amazing I clean the inside myself. I tried one of those places that do the inside and didn't really like what they did. -- Maggie |
#7
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:45:17 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/13/2016 11:21 PM, Muggles wrote: On 2/13/2016 8:49 PM, Stormin Mormon wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I recently tried some of the yellow Rain-X washer fluid. Smells funny, but works well. I just take my van to the drive-thru car wash. And that does the inside? Amazing A couple of good rags and a bottle of Phantom chrome and glass cleaner makes the glass sparkle like a diamond. Stormy goes through the carwash with the windows down to clean the inside of the windsheild and the seats and to wash the mud off the floormats. Driving down the road soaked to the skin with the windows open afterwards keeps him cool so he doesn't have to fix the AC on his van either. The only problem is the batched mess of wires under the seat gets wet, so he has to ask how to waterproof wire connections again. |
#8
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 9:25:28 PM UTC-5, Don Y wrote:
Today was 6 month wax. Of course, wash beforehand. It took us a long time but we've finally found a scheme for washing the HOUSE windows (lots of glass, here) without streaking, lint, etc. But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? The only glass cleaner I use, indoors and out. Bring plenty of paper towels. http://static.hardwarestore.com/medi...2_front500.jpg |
#9
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Vinegar in the water for the first step works pretty good too - and Phantom really polishes the glass with a normal cloth. Microfiber cloths DO make polishing glass a lot easier though, for sure. I still have most of a bottle of Phantom left from my dealership days when it was what we used to detail cars for the show-room or lot - back before microfiber. |
#10
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 9:51 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. They are rarely dirty from normal driving. Sure, when it rains, they get "mud spotted" -- but that comes off with the wipers, etc. What usually happens is they get fingerprints from installing and removing the front window shade. Or, the door windows show prints as I wrap my hands around the edge of the door to pull it closed. Or, hand/arm prints on the door glass from my arm leaning against it. I.e., the back and rear windows never need cleaning (no one sits back there nor touches the glass) Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Our usage pattern is REALLY low/infrequent. E.g., the car is barely on the road for ~15-20 hours/month. I suspect the cloth and water might not cut the oils that accompany fingerprints? Windex, Invisible Glass, etc. all do a great job of cleaning. But, seem to want to leave streaks unless you are insanely diligent. Maybe your original suggestion: cleaner with the follow through of a "damp cloth"? (I still want to try the stuff we use on the house windows as there's a LOT of glass there and we never see any streaks!) |
#11
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#12
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 I read somewhere about using a microfiber cloth for computer and tv screens too. But what the heck is a "microfiber cloth" and where fo you get them? (Brand names will help). |
#13
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 11:55 PM, Muggles wrote:
On 2/13/2016 10:45 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I just take my van to the drive-thru car wash. And that does the inside? Amazing I clean the inside myself. I tried one of those places that do the inside and didn't really like what they did. You didn't answer the question the original poster asked. -- .. Christopher A. Young learn more about Jesus .. www.lds.org .. .. |
#14
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/16 11:45 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/13/2016 11:21 PM, Muggles wrote: On 2/13/2016 8:49 PM, Stormin Mormon wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I recently tried some of the yellow Rain-X washer fluid. Smells funny, but works well. I just take my van to the drive-thru car wash. And that does the inside? Amazing Maybe he leaves the windows and sun roof open and the tailgate up. Probably props the hood open too for a degreased engine. -- If you don't want minimum wage, don't have minimum skills. |
#16
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#17
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 02/14/2016 06:50 AM, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/14/2016 4:16 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 I read somewhere about using a microfiber cloth for computer and tv screens too. But what the heck is a "microfiber cloth" and where fo you get them? (Brand names will help). Get them at Wal Mart, K-Mart, Sears, Target. Any place that had eyeglasses. I have one that I use for the screen on my phone. Bought it at the optical department at Wal Mart. The other one i have is not as smooth but it was in the cleaning supplies section of wherever I saw it. Just wet it and wipe. You can get them at Amazon too. Microfiber has a very thin stran as compared to a T shirt material. Something like 100,000 fibers per inch. You can also get them washcloth-sized in the automotive section of most stores; I picked up a three pack at my local ACE hardware store. Jon |
#18
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 9:50:51 AM UTC-5, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/14/2016 4:16 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 I read somewhere about using a microfiber cloth for computer and tv screens too. But what the heck is a "microfiber cloth" and where fo you get them? (Brand names will help). Get them at Wal Mart, K-Mart, Sears, Target. Any place that had eyeglasses. I have one that I use for the screen on my phone. Bought it at the optical department at Wal Mart. The other one i have is not as smooth but it was in the cleaning supplies section of wherever I saw it. Just wet it and wipe. You can get them at Amazon too. Microfiber has a very thin stran as compared to a T shirt material. Something like 100,000 fibers per inch. Well, I think the ones you get at an eyeglass retailer might be a little small for cleaning car windows. Can't you just picture PaintedCow trying to wipe down a windshield with a 3" x 3" cloth? ;-) But seriously, you have to be careful when choosing your microfiber towels. I bought some at an automotive store for wiping down the vehicles after I wash them. They absorb tons of water, can be wrung out and used again right away. Then I bought some someplace else, may have been HF or maybe a Dollar Store, and all they did was push the water around the surface. A bath towel would have done a better job. It would be a shame for someone to buy the cheap ones just because they say Microfiber on the package then get home and wonder why we're all saying how great they are. |
#19
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 19:24:44 -0700, Don Y
wrote: Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I use sudsy ammonia in warm water with a micro fiber cloth. Wash the glass, and then wipe with a clean damp micro fiber cloth. |
#20
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 9:48 AM, DerbyDad03 wrote:
On Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 9:50:51 AM UTC-5, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/14/2016 4:16 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 I read somewhere about using a microfiber cloth for computer and tv screens too. But what the heck is a "microfiber cloth" and where fo you get them? (Brand names will help). Get them at Wal Mart, K-Mart, Sears, Target. Any place that had eyeglasses. I have one that I use for the screen on my phone. Bought it at the optical department at Wal Mart. The other one i have is not as smooth but it was in the cleaning supplies section of wherever I saw it. Just wet it and wipe. You can get them at Amazon too. Microfiber has a very thin stran as compared to a T shirt material. Something like 100,000 fibers per inch. Well, I think the ones you get at an eyeglass retailer might be a little small for cleaning car windows. Can't you just picture PaintedCow trying to wipe down a windshield with a 3" x 3" cloth? ;-) But seriously, you have to be careful when choosing your microfiber towels. I bought some at an automotive store for wiping down the vehicles after I wash them. They absorb tons of water, can be wrung out and used again right away. Then I bought some someplace else, may have been HF or maybe a Dollar Store, and all they did was push the water around the surface. A bath towel would have done a better job. It would be a shame for someone to buy the cheap ones just because they say Microfiber on the package then get home and wonder why we're all saying how great they are. I've been following this conversation and must admit that I'm a bit confused by the terms being used. I don't like cleaning cloths that are labeled microfiber because I don't think they do much except push stuff around. At least that's been my experience with them. When I think of cleaning a car, I've always thought of the type of towel used to be a chamois, which soaks up water and can be wrung out and used again. I don't know eye glass cleaning cloths are called, but the one I have is definitely not microfiber. |
#21
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#22
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:37:08 -0700, Don Y
wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:51 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. They are rarely dirty from normal driving. Sure, when it rains, they get "mud spotted" -- but that comes off with the wipers, etc. What usually happens is they get fingerprints from installing and removing the front window shade. Or, the door windows show prints as I wrap my hands around the edge of the door to pull it closed. Or, hand/arm prints on the door glass from my arm leaning against it. I.e., the back and rear windows never need cleaning (no one sits back there nor touches the glass) Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Our usage pattern is REALLY low/infrequent. E.g., the car is barely on the road for ~15-20 hours/month. I suspect the cloth and water might not cut the oils that accompany fingerprints? Windex, Invisible Glass, etc. all do a great job of cleaning. But, seem to want to leave streaks unless you are insanely diligent. Maybe your original suggestion: cleaner with the follow through of a "damp cloth"? (I still want to try the stuff we use on the house windows as there's a LOT of glass there and we never see any streaks!) The secret for the final clean is a damp MICROFIBER cloth made for the purpose. They don't leave streaks like cotton can and normal polyester or poly-cotton will. |
#23
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:39:45 -0700, Don Y
wrote: On 2/13/2016 10:12 PM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Vinegar in the water for the first step works pretty good too - and Phantom really polishes the glass with a normal cloth. We've tried windex (with and without ammonia), "the pink stuff" (name slips my mind), vinegar, Invisible Glass, etc. I even tried a "dry erase eraser" (works pretty good but you need a LOT of elbow grease; and, hard to get at the inside low edge of the windshield where you can barely fit your fingertips!) Phantom appears to be a CA brand. Nope. Kebro Co in Des Moines Iowa. It is a professional product - not a consumer product so you won't find it at a big box store. Microfiber cloths DO make polishing glass a lot easier though, for sure. I still have most of a bottle of Phantom left from my dealership days when it was what we used to detail cars for the show-room or lot - back before microfiber. |
#24
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#25
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 08:28:23 -0500, Stormin Mormon
wrote: On 2/14/2016 12:09 AM, wrote: Stormy goes through the carwash with the windows down to clean the inside of the windsheild and the seats and to wash the mud off the floormats. Driving down the road soaked to the skin with the windows open afterwards keeps him cool so he doesn't have to fix the AC on his van either. The only problem is the batched mess of wires under the seat gets wet, so he has to ask how to waterproof wire connections again. You have nothing better to do, than store information about usenet posters, and try to come up with insults? I would have thought you had some thing better to do? Like pulling the lint out of your navel, or rereading the ingredients on your breakfast cereal box. Come on Stormy, we hardly have to store any information about your foibles. Every couple months you come up with another "unforgetable" broblem with one of your vehicles or your trailer --- You are just too good a target for ribbing when you come up with taking your van through the carwash to clean the windshield where it is hard to reach between the glass and the dash.. Admit it - It is pretty hard to let something like that slide... |
#26
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 11:14:08 -0600, SeaNymph
wrote: On 2/14/2016 9:48 AM, DerbyDad03 wrote: On Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 9:50:51 AM UTC-5, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/14/2016 4:16 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 I read somewhere about using a microfiber cloth for computer and tv screens too. But what the heck is a "microfiber cloth" and where fo you get them? (Brand names will help). Get them at Wal Mart, K-Mart, Sears, Target. Any place that had eyeglasses. I have one that I use for the screen on my phone. Bought it at the optical department at Wal Mart. The other one i have is not as smooth but it was in the cleaning supplies section of wherever I saw it. Just wet it and wipe. You can get them at Amazon too. Microfiber has a very thin stran as compared to a T shirt material. Something like 100,000 fibers per inch. Well, I think the ones you get at an eyeglass retailer might be a little small for cleaning car windows. Can't you just picture PaintedCow trying to wipe down a windshield with a 3" x 3" cloth? ;-) But seriously, you have to be careful when choosing your microfiber towels. I bought some at an automotive store for wiping down the vehicles after I wash them. They absorb tons of water, can be wrung out and used again right away. Then I bought some someplace else, may have been HF or maybe a Dollar Store, and all they did was push the water around the surface. A bath towel would have done a better job. It would be a shame for someone to buy the cheap ones just because they say Microfiber on the package then get home and wonder why we're all saying how great they are. I've been following this conversation and must admit that I'm a bit confused by the terms being used. I don't like cleaning cloths that are labeled microfiber because I don't think they do much except push stuff around. At least that's been my experience with them. When I think of cleaning a car, I've always thought of the type of towel used to be a chamois, which soaks up water and can be wrung out and used again. I don't know eye glass cleaning cloths are called, but the one I have is definitely not microfiber. I'll bet it is - just a lot better microfiber than the junk you bought as microfiber. |
#27
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 11:50 AM, wrote:
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:39:45 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/13/2016 10:12 PM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Vinegar in the water for the first step works pretty good too - and Phantom really polishes the glass with a normal cloth. We've tried windex (with and without ammonia), "the pink stuff" (name slips my mind), vinegar, Invisible Glass, etc. I even tried a "dry erase eraser" (works pretty good but you need a LOT of elbow grease; and, hard to get at the inside low edge of the windshield where you can barely fit your fingertips!) Phantom appears to be a CA brand. Nope. Kebro Co in Des Moines Iowa. It is a professional product - not a consumer product so you won't find it at a big box store. Note google yields no results -- outside of CA |
#28
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#29
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 10:14 AM, SeaNymph wrote:
On 2/14/2016 9:48 AM, DerbyDad03 wrote: On Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 9:50:51 AM UTC-5, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/14/2016 4:16 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 I read somewhere about using a microfiber cloth for computer and tv screens too. But what the heck is a "microfiber cloth" and where fo you get them? (Brand names will help). Get them at Wal Mart, K-Mart, Sears, Target. Any place that had eyeglasses. I have one that I use for the screen on my phone. Bought it at the optical department at Wal Mart. The other one i have is not as smooth but it was in the cleaning supplies section of wherever I saw it. Just wet it and wipe. You can get them at Amazon too. Microfiber has a very thin stran as compared to a T shirt material. Something like 100,000 fibers per inch. Well, I think the ones you get at an eyeglass retailer might be a little small for cleaning car windows. Can't you just picture PaintedCow trying to wipe down a windshield with a 3" x 3" cloth? ;-) But seriously, you have to be careful when choosing your microfiber towels. I bought some at an automotive store for wiping down the vehicles after I wash them. They absorb tons of water, can be wrung out and used again right away. Then I bought some someplace else, may have been HF or maybe a Dollar Store, and all they did was push the water around the surface. A bath towel would have done a better job. It would be a shame for someone to buy the cheap ones just because they say Microfiber on the package then get home and wonder why we're all saying how great they are. I've been following this conversation and must admit that I'm a bit confused by the terms being used. I don't like cleaning cloths that are labeled microfiber because I don't think they do much except push stuff around. At least that's been my experience with them. When I think of cleaning a car, I've always thought of the type of towel used to be a chamois, which soaks up water and can be wrung out and used again. We use a chamois for drying the vehicle. We've tried genuine chamois and "synthetic". But, on glass, the chamois needs to be wrung BONE dry in order not to streak. I don't know eye glass cleaning cloths are called, but the one I have is definitely not microfiber. |
#30
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:14:38 -0700, Don Y
wrote: On 2/14/2016 11:50 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:39:45 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/13/2016 10:12 PM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Vinegar in the water for the first step works pretty good too - and Phantom really polishes the glass with a normal cloth. We've tried windex (with and without ammonia), "the pink stuff" (name slips my mind), vinegar, Invisible Glass, etc. I even tried a "dry erase eraser" (works pretty good but you need a LOT of elbow grease; and, hard to get at the inside low edge of the windshield where you can barely fit your fingertips!) Phantom appears to be a CA brand. Nope. Kebro Co in Des Moines Iowa. It is a professional product - not a consumer product so you won't find it at a big box store. Note google yields no results -- outside of CA Kebro Inc., (515) 276-1769, 10110 Douglas Avenue Des Moines IA 50323-7765 USA. Kebro Inc. offers Specialty Clng Plshng/Sanitation (Mfr), Chemicals and Allied Products related products and services in Des Moines. Outside Des Moines, call +1.5152761769. See: http://www.trademarkia.com/phantom-72394317.html |
#31
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#32
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 12:34 PM, wrote:
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:14:38 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/14/2016 11:50 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:39:45 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/13/2016 10:12 PM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 23:51:57 -0500, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Vinegar in the water for the first step works pretty good too - and Phantom really polishes the glass with a normal cloth. We've tried windex (with and without ammonia), "the pink stuff" (name slips my mind), vinegar, Invisible Glass, etc. I even tried a "dry erase eraser" (works pretty good but you need a LOT of elbow grease; and, hard to get at the inside low edge of the windshield where you can barely fit your fingertips!) Phantom appears to be a CA brand. Nope. Kebro Co in Des Moines Iowa. It is a professional product - not a consumer product so you won't find it at a big box store. Note google yields no results -- outside of CA Kebro Inc., (515) 276-1769, 10110 Douglas Avenue Des Moines IA 50323-7765 USA. Kebro Inc. offers Specialty Clng Plshng/Sanitation (Mfr), Chemicals and Allied Products related products and services in Des Moines. Outside Des Moines, call +1.5152761769. See: http://www.trademarkia.com/phantom-72394317.html So, I have to buy from the factory? No retail/wholesale outlets? Maybe I'll just try some of the autodetailers in town and try to buy some from their stock (?) |
#33
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 12:35 PM, wrote:
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:15:51 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/14/2016 11:48 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:37:08 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:51 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. They are rarely dirty from normal driving. Sure, when it rains, they get "mud spotted" -- but that comes off with the wipers, etc. What usually happens is they get fingerprints from installing and removing the front window shade. Or, the door windows show prints as I wrap my hands around the edge of the door to pull it closed. Or, hand/arm prints on the door glass from my arm leaning against it. I.e., the back and rear windows never need cleaning (no one sits back there nor touches the glass) Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Our usage pattern is REALLY low/infrequent. E.g., the car is barely on the road for ~15-20 hours/month. I suspect the cloth and water might not cut the oils that accompany fingerprints? Windex, Invisible Glass, etc. all do a great job of cleaning. But, seem to want to leave streaks unless you are insanely diligent. Maybe your original suggestion: cleaner with the follow through of a "damp cloth"? (I still want to try the stuff we use on the house windows as there's a LOT of glass there and we never see any streaks!) The secret for the final clean is a damp MICROFIBER cloth made for the purpose. They don't leave streaks like cotton can and normal polyester or poly-cotton will. For the house windows, virgin newsprint is the answer. We used to use newsprint at the dealership too -- The local newpaper(s) -- I think they all print out of one shared facility -- makes "roll ends" available once a week. *Lots* of paper on a roll end -- at least when you're just using it for washing windows! [OTOH, they are a PITA to store! And, the cores seem sinful to just discard...] |
#34
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 9:38 AM, Oren wrote:
On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 19:24:44 -0700, Don Y wrote: Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I use sudsy ammonia in warm water with a micro fiber cloth. Wash the glass, and then wipe with a clean damp micro fiber cloth. SWMBO has a problem with ammonia. We've tried Windex w/o ammonia but it was no better than *with*. I'm going to try the stuff we use on the house windows -- if it will "spray" well. But, I think the real problem is the drying/removal. |
#35
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 13:28:36 -0700, Don Y
wrote: On 2/14/2016 9:38 AM, Oren wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 19:24:44 -0700, Don Y wrote: Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I use sudsy ammonia in warm water with a micro fiber cloth. Wash the glass, and then wipe with a clean damp micro fiber cloth. SWMBO has a problem with ammonia. We've tried Windex w/o ammonia but it was no better than *with*. I'm going to try the stuff we use on the house windows -- if it will "spray" well. But, I think the real problem is the drying/removal. The stuff I use doesn't have the ugly fumes like regular ammonia from years ago, even scented. I get it locally -- most any grocery store. It cuts dirt and grime very well. Once cleaned a sliding patio door, dang if I didn't walk right into the glass 5 minutes later :-) |
#36
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OT auto glass cleaning
On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:39:23 -0700, Don Y
wrote: On 2/14/2016 12:35 PM, wrote: On Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:15:51 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/14/2016 11:48 AM, wrote: On Sat, 13 Feb 2016 22:37:08 -0700, Don Y wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:51 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/13/2016 9:24 PM, Don Y wrote: But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? If really dirty I do two steps. Step 1. A quick wash with Windex and paper towels. Usually leaves some streaks. They are rarely dirty from normal driving. Sure, when it rains, they get "mud spotted" -- but that comes off with the wipers, etc. What usually happens is they get fingerprints from installing and removing the front window shade. Or, the door windows show prints as I wrap my hands around the edge of the door to pull it closed. Or, hand/arm prints on the door glass from my arm leaning against it. I.e., the back and rear windows never need cleaning (no one sits back there nor touches the glass) Step 2 is a microfiber cloth and water. Wet cloth with plain water, wipe glass. Done. Works better than anything I've ever used. Do it once a month and you won't need step 1 Our usage pattern is REALLY low/infrequent. E.g., the car is barely on the road for ~15-20 hours/month. I suspect the cloth and water might not cut the oils that accompany fingerprints? Windex, Invisible Glass, etc. all do a great job of cleaning. But, seem to want to leave streaks unless you are insanely diligent. Maybe your original suggestion: cleaner with the follow through of a "damp cloth"? (I still want to try the stuff we use on the house windows as there's a LOT of glass there and we never see any streaks!) The secret for the final clean is a damp MICROFIBER cloth made for the purpose. They don't leave streaks like cotton can and normal polyester or poly-cotton will. For the house windows, virgin newsprint is the answer. We used to use newsprint at the dealership too -- The local newpaper(s) -- I think they all print out of one shared facility -- makes "roll ends" available once a week. *Lots* of paper on a roll end -- at least when you're just using it for washing windows! [OTOH, they are a PITA to store! And, the cores seem sinful to just discard...] We found "inked" newsprint was as good as or better than "virgin" newsprint - whether it was th carbon in the ink acting as a "compound" or what, I don't know. |
#37
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OT auto glass cleaning
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#38
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/14/2016 2:55 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote:
On 2/14/2016 2:35 PM, wrote: For the house windows, virgin newsprint is the answer. We used to use newsprint at the dealership too -- Works the same way the microfiber cloth does. We haven't gotten a newspaper for years, now. I wonder if stuff printed on a home printer would work just as well. -- Maggie |
#39
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2016-02-14 4:13 PM, Muggles wrote:
On 2/14/2016 2:55 PM, Ed Pawlowski wrote: On 2/14/2016 2:35 PM, wrote: For the house windows, virgin newsprint is the answer. We used to use newsprint at the dealership too -- Works the same way the microfiber cloth does. We haven't gotten a newspaper for years, now. I wonder if stuff printed on a home printer would work just as well. Bwahahahahaha, damn you are retarded. -- Froz... Quando omni flunkus, moritati |
#40
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OT auto glass cleaning
On 2/13/2016 6:24 PM, Don Y wrote:
Today was 6 month wax. Of course, wash beforehand. It took us a long time but we've finally found a scheme for washing the HOUSE windows (lots of glass, here) without streaking, lint, etc. But, no such luck with the car. *Any* car! Windshields are always a chore cuz of the low attack angle (can't get to the glass as it nears the dashboard). Other windows are too small/odd shaped for a squeegee. And, of course, you never know if you've done a good-enough job until you get the car out in the sun and try to SEE through all your invisible smudges! : Presently using "Invisible Glass" which *seems* to do a good job but ONLY if you diligently remove ALL traces before it dries. Next time, I'll try the stuff we use on the house windows (pour some of it into a spray bottle). Maybe see if I can find a TINY squeegee with which to apply it; virgin newsprint to dry. Anyone have any secret (cleaning) solutions or techniques? I read somewhere that fine steel wool gets rid of the water spots on the exterior. My windows are 26 years old and the stuff on the outside won't come off with cleaners. I've been afraid to try to polish with steel wool. Anybody tried that? |
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